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Highlights
- Marble flooring cost averages $2,500 to $5,000, with the national average for most homeowners at $3,750.
- Homeowners anticipating marble flooring installation costs will need to consider factors such as floor size, marble color and grade, labor rates, prep work, and type of flooring.
- The benefits of marble flooring can’t be overstated, from the durability and design versatility to the increased home value and compatibility with radiant heating.
- Marble flooring is a costly material to work with and requires special equipment, which means it’s ideal to leave the hassle and effort to professional installers.
Marble flooring adds a level of sophistication to an interior space like no other flooring type can. It’s been a popular material choice for centuries, gracing the floors of palaces, museums, and modern homes alike.
But, as with any piece of art, there’s a price to pay for such elegance. According to Angi and HomeAdvisor, the typical range for marble flooring costs is $2,500 to $5,000, with the final investment dependent on floor size, marble type, and flooring pattern. However, the national average price homeowners pay for marble flooring is $3,750.
This guide explains the influencing factors of marble flooring costs and tips for saving money on materials and labor when homeowners are installing or upgrading residential flooring.
Factors in Calculating Marble Flooring Cost
When homeowners are calculating marble floor installation cost, there’s more to consider than meets the eye. Location significantly determines prices, as local average costs may differ from the national average marble flooring cost. Other influential cost factors include marble color and the differences in cost between slab marble and tile. Homeowners can consider the following main factors when budgeting for marble flooring.
Floor Size
Like the costs of most other types of flooring, marble floor installation costs are often determined by square footage. The average marble flooring cost per square foot is $10 to $20 for professional installation. With this cost range, tiling a 300-square-foot marble kitchen floor can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $6,000.
Floor size influences marble flooring costs for several reasons. To start, larger floor sizes require more marble, which means increased material costs. Additionally, there is potential for significant waste material due to adjustments and trimmings during installation—all of which costs money up front. Finally, larger floor spaces may have more complex layouts, requiring additional labor time.
| Floor Size | Average Cost Range (Materials and Labor) |
| 100 square feet | $1,000 to $2,000 |
| 150 square feet | $1,500 to $3,000 |
| 200 square feet | $2,000 to $4,000 |
| 300 square feet | $3,000 to $6,000 |
Marble Flooring Type
As with other flooring installation costs, the specific type of marble selected is pivotal in determining the overall project cost for several reasons.
Some marble varieties are more rare than others. If a particular marble type is more difficult to source, it’s likely to cost more than readily available options. Also, veining patterns and color variations of different types of marble can influence prices, although many consumers are willing to pay more for marble with unique or striking features.
Finally, different types of marble have different levels of durability. Harder marbles are more resistant to wear and damage, increasing their cost.
Marble Color and Grade
A marble’s color and grade refer to the visual characteristics and quality of the material. Both aspects can influence pricing, so it’s important for homeowners to understand both color and grade when budgeting for marble flooring.
Marble is available in various colors, including white, gray, black, beige, green, and more. Slabs with unique veining patterns and rare or exotic colors tend to have higher price tags.
There are four grades of marble: Grade A, Grade B, Grade C, and Grade D. Grade A marble is of the highest quality, having fewer flaws and subtle veining. Grades B and C may require filling but tend to be more affordable than Grade A. Finally, Grade D is the most budget-friendly, with a softer structure and thick veining.
| Marble Grade | Average Cost (Per Square Foot) |
| Basic marble (Grade D) | $2 to $10 |
| Higher-grade marble (Grade A, B, or C) | $10 to 25 |
| Specialty marble (Grade A) | $25 to $60 |
Marble Pattern
When homeowners are designing an interior space with a marble floor, the pattern is one element to consider. There are several different design arrangements of marble tile, all of which notably impact the floor’s costs.
For example, a more complex marble floor design, such as a motif or herringbone pattern, requires more labor and expertise. Unique marble flooring patterns can cost as much as 10 percent to 25 percent more than traditional installation patterns.
Some patterns, like mosaics and dimensional illusions, may result in more wasted tile from cuttings. Certain patterns may also require the assistance of installers with specialized experience. Homeowners may pay more for labor if an expert installer is needed.
Marble Finish
Marble finish refers to the surface treatment applied to the flooring after installation. There are several options available, all with different price points.
A smooth finish provides a standard, polished appearance and is the most affordable option. However, a smooth finish may be appropriate only for some living spaces.
For example, rooms such as bathrooms that experience high moisture may benefit from a slip-resistant textured finish. Tumbled, chiseled, and flamed are all examples of textured finishes that can make a marble floor safer but more expensive to install.
It’s not just about the installation, though. There are maintenance expenses to keep in mind. Polished marble may require more frequent cleaning, increasing a flooring’s lifetime cost. It’s best for homeowners to consider aesthetic appeal, budget, and maintenance thresholds when they are considering different marble finishing types.
Slab vs. Tile
Marble slabs are large, solid pieces of marble. They’re commonly used for countertops and walls due to their thickness, though in rare cases, slabs may be used for flooring. While slabs offer luxurious and seamless designs, they’re more expensive to purchase and install.
Marble tiles are thinner, smaller pieces of marble. They are available in various sizes and shapes, including square, rectangular, and hexagonal. Marble floor tile is generally more budget-friendly than slab, but using multiple tiles may create visible seams that detract from the room’s overall aesthetics.
While the final choice between slab and tile comes down to budget, project, and the overall vision for a space, it helps to know their price difference. Homeowners can expect to pay between $5 and $10 per square foot for tile and between $10 and $20 per square foot for slab, though certain marble types may be more expensive.
Labor
Hiring a professional for marble floor installation is often a better route than DIY marble installation. Labor for marble flooring installation includes preparing the surface, laying out the tile, cutting and shaping tiles, applying adhesive, placing tiles, grouting, and finishing. In other words, there are quite a few steps involved that make a DIY job much more difficult to do well.
Labor costs vary by location and job scope but generally run $3 to $7 per square foot. If homeowners prefer intricate or unique patterns or require extra services like floor leveling or the removal of old flooring before installation, the labor costs will increase.
Labor costs make up a significant portion of overall marble flooring costs, so it helps to shop around for the most cost-effective rate.
Additional Costs and Considerations
Marble flooring costs aren’t just about the cost of the stone itself and the labor involved. Several additional costs and potential components must be considered, from subfloor repair to maintenance.
Old Floor Removal
In some scenarios, the existing flooring material needs to be removed before a marble floor can be installed. Carpet, tile, hardwood, and laminate floors are commonly taken out to prepare the subfloor and ensure a level and stable surface.
Floor removal adds an additional expense to a marble floor budget. Depending on the old flooring material, homeowners can expect to pay between $0.70 and $1.50 per square foot for removal.
Budget-conscious homeowners can consider removing their own flooring to save on removal costs. However, floor removal often involves special tools and equipment. Purchasing or renting that equipment could cancel out any potential savings. Inexperienced DIY floor removal can also potentially damage the subfloor, tacking on additional repair costs.
Subfloor Repair
A subfloor is a structural layer of material beneath the top flooring surface that provides stability and support. When installed correctly, it creates a level and stable floor.
However, subfloors can become damaged or compromised from water damage, rot, or shifting. A compromised subfloor must be repaired before marble flooring can be properly installed.
On the other hand, some subfloors may not be compatible with marble installation and must be replaced entirely. Subfloor repair and replacement are typically not DIY projects. When homeowners are wondering who to hire to replace a subfloor, they’re advised to reach out to a flooring contractor rather than a handyman.
While costs will depend heavily on room size and local labor rates, homeowners can expect the cost to replace a subfloor to fall between $3 and $10 per square foot. Repairing an existing subfloor can cost between $2 and $10 per square foot, but a more costly flooring joist repair could cost upwards of $10 to $60 per square foot.
Radiant-Floor Heating Installation
Radiant-floor heating uses either hot water or electricity to heat the floor. Radiant heating offers comfortable and consistent warmth, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal, since it eliminates the need for visible heating elements.
Radiant-floor heating works well with marble, as it is an excellent heat conductor that can ensure even and efficient heat distribution.
Radiant-floor heating costs depend on whether the water uses water or electricity. Square footage also directly impacts the final cost, though installation typically runs between $10 and $90 per square foot. It’s important to note that despite the additional up-front cost, radiant-floor heating can lead to energy savings over time.
Trim Installation
Trim, also known as baseboards, refers to the decorative boards found at the base of walls. Trim creates a seamless transition between walls and flooring, including marble flooring. It also helps protect the bottom of walls from scuffs and other marks.
Trim isn’t an absolute necessity for marble flooring, but it’s recommended to achieve a finished look. Without trim, a room can appear incomplete. Trim style and colors can be tailored to match or contrast with marble flooring, offering plenty of creative design options. Trim installation adds to the overall cost of marble flooring, from $3 to $12 per linear foot.
Maintenance
Marble flooring requires regular care to preserve its appearance and longevity. Maintenance for a clean marble floor includes the following:
- Cleaning. Marble-specific cleaners can help remove dirt and stains.
- Dust mopping. A soft, nonabrasive duster can remove surface dust and debris.
- Professional polishing. Pro cleaning is recommended every few years to maintain shine.
- Sealing. Proper sealing protects marble (a porous material) from moisture and stains.
Homeowners are encouraged to establish a regular maintenance routine to prevent dirt buildup and to budget for occasional professional polishing services. The cost to polish a marble floor can be anywhere from $400 to $1,230. In between professional sessions, budget-savvy homeowners can learn how to polish marble flooring on their own.
Types of Marble Flooring
Homeowners have many options when it comes to choosing a marble flooring type. Depending on their design preferences, homeowners can explore some of the most elegant and striking options available, from breccia and Carrara to onyx.
| Marble Flooring Type | Cost Range (Materials and Labor) |
| Breccia | $13 to $37 per square foot |
| Calacatta | $13 to $27 per square foot |
| Carrara | $5 to $13 per square foot |
| Crema Marfil | $9 to $19 per square foot |
| Emperador | $14 to $37 per square foot |
| Onyx | $18 to $57 per square foot |
Breccia
Breccia marble flooring offers one-of-a-kind aesthetics. It’s easily recognizable by the mosaic-like pattern of different stones in a variety of colors, including brown, black, green, gold, and red hues. This diverse color palette makes it suitable for both contemporary and traditional interior designs.
Breccia marble is one of the more expensive marble options due to its unique patterns, costing between $13 and $37 per square foot. It’s best suited for high-visibility areas where its dramatic impact can be fully appreciated. Examples include grand entrances, living rooms, and upscale commercial spaces. Breccia is not typically recommended for outdoor use.
Carrara
Carrara is a timeless variety of white marble flooring. It features subtle veining and offers a classic and elegant appearance. Its neutral color makes it a versatile option for a variety of interior designs and complements rooms with a clean aesthetic, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
Carrara flooring typically ranges from $5 to $13 per square foot for materials and labor, making it one of the most affordable marble types. Carrara’s uniform appearance simplifies the installation process, which can save homeowners on labor costs.
Homeowners interested in Carrara marble flooring will want to keep in mind that the lighter shades make sealing and maintenance crucial to prevent staining.
Calacatta
Ranging from $13 to $27 per square foot, Calacatta marble is a high-quality material with unique veining patterns. Like most other types of marble, it requires proper sealing and maintenance to prevent staining and etching.
Calcatta’s dramatic appearance features a bright white base with deep, bold gray veining. Compared to other, lighter shades of marble, Calacatta offers a warmer tone that pairs well with warm design colors, such as red, orange, and yellow.
While not the most expensive variety, Calacatta marble is a significant investment. It’s best for kitchen islands, bathrooms, and statement floors.
Crema Marfil
Crema Marfil marble flooring offers a more gentle neutral base than other marble varieties. It has a creamy beige or light tan hue with subtle yellow undertones that create a warm ambience. It’s ideal for residential settings and complements a variety of design styles and color palettes.
With a wide range of veining patterns, every piece of Crema Marfil is unique. This quality gives the marble flooring type a moderate price range, costing between $9 and $19 per square foot. It’s most commonly used in living rooms, bedrooms, and bathrooms. Regular maintenance and proper sealing are essential with Crema Marfil marble flooring.
Emperador
Emperador marble flooring is an in-demand variety with a price tag to match: $14 to $37 per square foot. The marble’s unique veining and rich brown color offer a higher level of variation and grain than other natural stone tiles, creating a cozy and inviting ambience in residential spaces.
One unique benefit of Emperador is that it conceals dust and dirt. This is an ideal feature for flooring, as it helps make maintenance easier. While Emperador is less likely to stain because of its darker colors, homeowners are still advised to seal Emperador marble to preserve its appearance.
Onyx
Onyx marble flooring is unique in that it allows light to pass through it. Its translucent nature makes onyx perfect for backlit walls and other lighting features. While many think onyx comes only as a black marble floor, it’s also available in blue, red, and green.
Onyx is one of the most luxurious marble flooring types, and the price point reflects this. Homeowners can expect to pay anywhere from $18 to $57 for materials and installation.
Due to the high price tag, homeowners will want to carefully plan a design with onyx to make sure it complements the space. It’s important to ensure the material enhances a home’s design rather than conflicts with it.
Benefits of Choosing Marble Flooring
Opting for marble flooring is more than a design choice; it’s an investment that comes with a variety of benefits. Readers can learn why marble is a coveted flooring choice by exploring its unparalleled advantages below.
Durability
Low-quality or nondurable flooring can have a short lifespan and lead to a lower property value. However, marble flooring offers superior durability and higher property value.
Marble is a natural stone known for its strength and ability to withstand heavy foot traffic. The material is also less prone to scratches than other flooring materials, helping it look newer for longer. Additionally, marble has exceptional heat resistance. It’s an ideal flooring companion for radiant-heating systems.
The durability of marble flooring means it can last for decades. Since it’s resistant to damage, homeowners don’t have to worry as much about frequent repairs. However, while durable, marble floors should be sealed regularly to prevent staining and moisture penetration.
Versatility
Less versatile flooring materials may restrict a homeowner’s design choices while potentially affecting a home’s resale value. However, marble flooring offers versatility and the ability to adapt to various rooms and design styles.
Marble flooring can be used in living rooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways. It also fits a variety of styles, from classic to contemporary. Additionally, marble tiles come in various sizes and shapes, allowing for different patterns for definition. When homeowners are using marble in various rooms, it’s important to coordinate colors and patterns to achieve a cohesive design.
Radiant-Heat Compatibility
Marble is a natural stone that conducts and retains heat efficiently. Radiant-heat systems can cause other types of flooring to crack or warp, but marble can withstand thermal stress and evenly distribute heat.
Homeowners who install radiant-heat systems beneath their marble floors can enjoy cozy and comfortable living spaces, especially in colder climates. With radiant-heated marble floors, homeowners also have more flexibility in arranging furniture and decor without the need for traditional heating elements.
Additionally, radiant heat is quieter and more energy efficient, making it an investment with superior benefits when paired with marble flooring.
Increased Home Value
Marble floors can potentially increase a home’s value for several reasons. One reason is that they offer a touch of luxury to a house that buyers enjoy. The material is also versatile and complements various interior design styles. Further, marble’s long lifespan allows potential buyers to view it as valuable and relatively low maintenance compared to other flooring materials.
However, marble alone isn’t enough to increase home value. The quality of the marble itself and the installation can significantly impact value. Market conditions also play a role in determining how much return on investment (ROI) marble floors can bring.
Marble Flooring Installation: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
Many homeowners wonder if they can take on installation themselves to save on their marble flooring costs. But it’s important to understand that marble is quite delicate in nature and requires extreme precision and skill to install correctly. For those new to DIY, tackling a marble floor installation can lead to costly mistakes and delayed timelines. DIY marble floor installation is possible for those with the right skills or prior tiling experience. Ultimately, marble flooring is an installation job best left to the professionals. Those who opt for professional marble floor installation gain several benefits:
- Expertise. Professionals are skilled in handling fragile marble.
- Time efficiency. Pro installers also work efficiently and save a DIY homeowner hours, if not days.
- Cost savings. A professional marble floor installer understands how to prevent costly errors and not waste materials. Professionals may also be able to purchase marble in bulk at a discounted price and already have the right tools and equipment.
- Subfloor preparation. A necessary step for enhancing durability, proper subfloor prep is a technical job that a flooring contractor is qualified to do safely and properly.
- Quality assurance. Working with professionals instead of DIY ensures a more flawless installation.
How to Save Money on Marble Flooring Cost
Marble flooring is a significant investment, but that doesn’t mean opportunities to save money don’t exist. Here are some tips to reduce a homeowner’s marble flooring cost without sacrificing quality.
- Shop smart. Compare marble pricing from multiple suppliers to find the best deals. Research wholesalers, and be on the lookout for sales or clearance pricing.
- Choose standard varieties. Opt for marble varieties that are more affordable than rare or exotic ones.
- DIY prep work. Homeowners who are experienced at subfloor prep or old floor removal can save on labor costs.
- Limit customization. Avoid overly complex or detailed designs, and opt for a simple cut and layout to save on installation time and materials.
- Consider alternatives. A marble epoxy floor may be more affordable than solid marble. This option combines marble chips with epoxy resin, making it an affordable yet attractive alternative.
- Plan ahead. Planning a marble floor installation during a contractor’s slower periods may offer more competitive pricing.
- Prioritize maintenance. To reduce the risk of costly repairs or tile replacement, invest in proper marble floor maintenance, including regular sealing, and learn how to clean marble floors.
While not a way to save money, a home equity loan can help finance a renovation project. Taking out one of the best home equity loans (such as loans from Bank of America and US Bank) makes it easier to complete the project if cash isn’t readily available, with funds often immediately available in a lump sum.
Questions to Ask About Marble Flooring Installation
Homeowners hoping to find the best flooring companies to tackle a marble flooring installation can start by asking the right questions. Referring to the following list can help them vet their choices.
- Are you licensed and insured for flooring installation?
- Do you have a list of references I can reach out to?
- Do you have a portfolio of previous work?
- Do you provide free quotes, and if so, how long are they good for?
- How experienced are you with marble floor installation?
- What type of marble do you recommend based on my space and budget?
- When can your schedule accommodate my installation?
- How long can I expect the installation to take?
- Do you handle the removal and disposal of old flooring materials?
- What is your payment method and schedule?
- How will you protect my furniture and property during installation?
- How do you handle unexpected issues or problems?
- Do you offer an installation warranty?
- What does marble flooring maintenance look like?
FAQs
Marble flooring is elegant and known for its longevity and durability. There’s no shortage of options for colors and patterns, and several benefits come with choosing this flooring material.
To determine marble flooring costs, homeowners need to consider the room size, marble type, and local labor rates. For additional insight into marble flooring, homeowners can review the following questions and answers.
Q. How long is a slab of marble?
The standard dimension of a slab of marble ranges from 7.87 to 8.20 feet in length and 3.94 to 4.59 feet in width. Larger slabs offer homeowners the ability to take on a variety of architectural and interior design applications. For example, oversize slabs can help minimize marble countertop costs, providing a uniform appearance with faster installation.
Q. Is marble cheaper than granite?
No, marble is not cheaper than granite. While prices vary, marble can be more than twice the cost per square foot of granite. However, marble’s aesthetic elegance, longevity, and versatility make it worth the investment for many homeowners. Marble also can increase property value, helping homeowners recuperate part of their investment.
Q. Is a white marble floor expensive?
No, a white marble floor is not expensive compared to other marble types. Prices typically range from $3 to $10 per square foot for materials and cost up to $20 per square foot installed. For comparison, onyx flooring can cost as much as $50 per square foot for materials alone.
Q. How long do marble floors last?
Marble floors can last 25 to over 100 years, depending on how well they’re maintained. To keep marble floors looking and functioning at their best, routine cleaning and sealing are paramount. Such practices will protect marble flooring from stains and premature wear and will improve their durability and longevity.
Sources: Angi, HomeAdvisor, Designing Idea, Fixr, Homeguide