Floor Sanding Case Studies

Project Overview This project involved the professional sanding and restoration of an existing wood floor at a property in Islington, EC1V. The floor had seen years of daily wear and was in need of attention to bring it back to a quality finish. Our team carried out a full assessment before starting work, checking for any boards that needed attention alongside the main sanding and finishing wor...

Project Overview

This project involved the professional sanding and restoration of an existing wood floor at a property in Islington, EC1V. The floor had seen years of daily wear and was in need of attention to bring it back to a quality finish. Our team carried out a full assessment before starting work, checking for any boards that needed attention alongside the main sanding and finishing work.

Before the Work

Before work began, the floor showed typical signs of wear. Surface scratches, dull patches, and general finish deterioration were present. A thorough survey was carried out to plan the correct sanding depth, assess board condition, and choose the most appropriate finish for the space.

Survey photos showing the floor condition before work:

Our Approach

The following services were carried out as part of this project:

• Extra Day Surcharge
• Furniture Moving
• Hardwood - Sand, Buff & Lacquer
• Moving Furniture Back

The Result

Once the sanding and finishing process was complete, the floor was transformed. The wood grain was opened up and brought back to life, the surface was smooth and even, and the new finish provided lasting protection. The client was left with a floor that looked, and performed, as good as new.

Photos of the completed work:

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does floor sanding take?
Most residential sanding jobs are completed in one to two days, depending on floor size and condition. Lacquering or oiling adds further drying and curing time, which we factor into the job schedule.

Do I need to vacate the property during sanding?
Modern dustless sanding equipment keeps dust to a minimum, but we recommend keeping pets and young children clear of the area during the work. Most clients remain in their property throughout.

How much does floor sanding cost in London?
Prices typically range from £25 to £45 per square metre depending on floor condition, finish type, and any repair work required. Gap filling and board replacement are priced separately if needed.

Have a similar project? Call us on 020 88309782 or Book a Free Site Visit

Project Overview This project involved the professional sanding and restoration of an existing wood floor at a property in Southfields, SW18. The floor had seen years of daily wear and was in need of attention to bring it back to a quality finish. Our team carried out a full assessment before starting work, checking for any boards that needed attention alongside the main sanding and finishing w...

Project Overview

This project involved the professional sanding and restoration of an existing wood floor at a property in Southfields, SW18. The floor had seen years of daily wear and was in need of attention to bring it back to a quality finish. Our team carried out a full assessment before starting work, checking for any boards that needed attention alongside the main sanding and finishing work.

Before the Work

Before work began, the floor showed typical signs of wear. Surface scratches, dull patches, and general finish deterioration were present. A thorough survey was carried out to plan the correct sanding depth, assess board condition, and choose the most appropriate finish for the space.

Our Approach

The following services were carried out as part of this project:

• Floorboards - Replacement (incl. materials)
• Floorboards - Sand, Buff & Lacquer
• Gap Filling
• Pine Slivers ( 30 lm) supply & fit

The Result

Once the sanding and finishing process was complete, the floor was transformed. The wood grain was opened up and brought back to life, the surface was smooth and even, and the new finish provided lasting protection. The client was left with a floor that looked, and performed, as good as new.

Photos of the completed work:

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does floor sanding take?
Most residential sanding jobs are completed in one to two days, depending on floor size and condition. Lacquering or oiling adds further drying and curing time, which we factor into the job schedule.

Do I need to vacate the property during sanding?
Modern dustless sanding equipment keeps dust to a minimum, but we recommend keeping pets and young children clear of the area during the work. Most clients remain in their property throughout.

How much does floor sanding cost in London?
Prices typically range from £25 to £45 per square metre depending on floor condition, finish type, and any repair work required. Gap filling and board replacement are priced separately if needed.

Have a similar project? Call us on 020 88309782 or Book a Free Site Visit

Project Overview This project involved the professional sanding and restoration of an existing wood floor at a property in Leyton, E10. The floor had seen years of daily wear and was in need of attention to bring it back to a quality finish. Our team carried out a full assessment before starting work, checking for any boards that needed attention alongside the main sanding and finishing work. ...

Project Overview

This project involved the professional sanding and restoration of an existing wood floor at a property in Leyton, E10. The floor had seen years of daily wear and was in need of attention to bring it back to a quality finish. Our team carried out a full assessment before starting work, checking for any boards that needed attention alongside the main sanding and finishing work.

Before the Work

Before work began, the floor showed typical signs of wear. Surface scratches, dull patches, and general finish deterioration were present. A thorough survey was carried out to plan the correct sanding depth, assess board condition, and choose the most appropriate finish for the space.

Survey photos showing the floor condition before work:

Our Approach

The following services were carried out as part of this project:

• Doors Plus Frame Trimming (per door)
• Furniture Moving
• Gap Filling
• Kitchen Plinths Trimming
• Lift & Dispose Hardwood Flooring
• Parquet - Sand, Buff & Lacquer
• Parquet Floor Fitting - No Border
• Skirting Board Removal
• Skirting Boards Installation (incl. materials)
• Staining
• Subfloor Preparation (ply 3.6 - 6.0 mm)
• Thresholds & Fitting (inc. materials)
• Oak Parquet Flooring Blocks, Natural, 70x350x20 mm

The Result

Once the sanding and finishing process was complete, the floor was transformed. The wood grain was opened up and brought back to life, the surface was smooth and even, and the new finish provided lasting protection. The client was left with a floor that looked, and performed, as good as new.

Photos of the completed work:

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does floor sanding take?
Most residential sanding jobs are completed in one to two days, depending on floor size and condition. Lacquering or oiling adds further drying and curing time, which we factor into the job schedule.

Do I need to vacate the property during sanding?
Modern dustless sanding equipment keeps dust to a minimum, but we recommend keeping pets and young children clear of the area during the work. Most clients remain in their property throughout.

How much does floor sanding cost in London?
Prices typically range from £25 to £45 per square metre depending on floor condition, finish type, and any repair work required. Gap filling and board replacement are priced separately if needed.

Have a similar project? Call us on 020 88309782 or Book a Free Site Visit

Project Overview This project involved the professional sanding and restoration of an existing wood floor at a property in North West London, NW3. The floor had seen years of daily wear and was in need of attention to bring it back to a quality finish. Our team carried out a full assessment before starting work, checking for any boards that needed attention alongside the main sanding and finish...

Project Overview

This project involved the professional sanding and restoration of an existing wood floor at a property in North West London, NW3. The floor had seen years of daily wear and was in need of attention to bring it back to a quality finish. Our team carried out a full assessment before starting work, checking for any boards that needed attention alongside the main sanding and finishing work.

Before the Work

Before work began, the floor showed typical signs of wear. Surface scratches, dull patches, and general finish deterioration were present. A thorough survey was carried out to plan the correct sanding depth, assess board condition, and choose the most appropriate finish for the space.

Survey photos showing the floor condition before work:

Our Approach

The following services were carried out as part of this project:

• Floorboards - Sand, Buff & Lacquer
• Gap Filling
• Parquet - Sand, Buff & Lacquer
• Thresholds & Fitting (inc. materials)

The Result

Once the sanding and finishing process was complete, the floor was transformed. The wood grain was opened up and brought back to life, the surface was smooth and even, and the new finish provided lasting protection. The client was left with a floor that looked, and performed, as good as new.

Photos of the completed work:

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does floor sanding take?
Most residential sanding jobs are completed in one to two days, depending on floor size and condition. Lacquering or oiling adds further drying and curing time, which we factor into the job schedule.

Do I need to vacate the property during sanding?
Modern dustless sanding equipment keeps dust to a minimum, but we recommend keeping pets and young children clear of the area during the work. Most clients remain in their property throughout.

How much does floor sanding cost in London?
Prices typically range from £25 to £45 per square metre depending on floor condition, finish type, and any repair work required. Gap filling and board replacement are priced separately if needed.

Have a similar project? Call us on 020 88309782 or Book a Free Site Visit

Project Overview This engineered wood floor in Hither Green had accumulated years of surface wear and was beginning to show scratches, dull patches and scuff marks that were spoiling the appearance of an otherwise good-quality floor. Engineered wood floors can be sanded and refinished just like solid wood, though the number of times this can be done is limited by the thickness of the hardwood top...

Project Overview

This engineered wood floor in Hither Green had accumulated years of surface wear and was beginning to show scratches, dull patches and scuff marks that were spoiling the appearance of an otherwise good-quality floor. Engineered wood floors can be sanded and refinished just like solid wood, though the number of times this can be done is limited by the thickness of the hardwood top layer. In this case, the floor had plenty of wear layer remaining, making a full sanding and lacquering the correct solution. The result returned the floor to a condition that looked and felt brand new.

The Challenge

Engineered floors require more caution during sanding than solid boards because there is less material to work with above the ply core. Applying too aggressive a grit or making too many passes removes too much of the hardwood lamella and can expose the plywood beneath. The initial grit selection has to be carefully judged: coarse enough to remove the old finish and surface imperfections efficiently, but not so heavy that it cuts through the wear layer before the job is done. The sanding equipment used needs to be correctly set up for the thickness of the top layer and checked regularly during the job to confirm progress.

Our Approach

Pre-sanding assessment. We checked the wear layer depth at several points across the floor before starting. This confirmed there was sufficient material to proceed with a full sand.

Controlled sanding sequence. The floor was sanded using a sequence of grits starting at medium rather than coarse, given the engineered construction. This approach takes slightly longer but is the right method for protecting the wear layer. Multiple passes at increasing fineness brought the surface to a smooth, even finish throughout.

Edge sanding and detailing. The perimeter was worked with an edge sander and the corners finished by hand to ensure the whole floor was consistent.

Lacquer application. Two coats of lacquer were applied with adequate curing time between coats. Lacquer was the chosen finish because of the high level of traffic in the main living areas of this property. The hard film it creates is the most effective protection for an engineered floor in daily use.

The Result

The finished floor was smooth, bright and well-protected. All the scratches and scuff marks had been removed, the colour of the wood came back to life under the lacquer, and the surface felt solid and even underfoot. The owners now have a floor that looks as good as it did when it was first installed. With proper care and periodic maintenance, engineered floors can be kept in this condition for many years before needing another sanding cycle.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know whether my engineered floor can be sanded?
The key factor is the thickness of the hardwood wear layer on top. Most engineered floors have a layer of between 3mm and 6mm. If the layer is at least 3mm, a light sand is usually safe. A professional can measure the thickness before starting and advise on what is possible.

Is lacquer the best finish for an engineered wood floor?
Lacquer is a very practical choice for high-traffic areas because it creates a hard, durable surface film. Oil finishes are also suitable and give a more natural look, but they need re-applying more often. The right choice depends on use and personal preference.

How long before I can use the floor after lacquering?
Most lacquers are touch-dry within a few hours and can take light foot traffic after around 24 hours. Full hardness is usually reached after five to seven days. During this period, avoid dragging furniture across the surface.

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Project Overview This fitting project in Bow involved the installation of a luxury vinyl floor in a herringbone pattern across the main living areas of a residential property. The clients had selected a vinyl product designed to replicate the look of real wood parquet and wanted the classic herringbone layout that is popular in period London interiors. Modern luxury vinyl flooring has improved dr...

Project Overview

This fitting project in Bow involved the installation of a luxury vinyl floor in a herringbone pattern across the main living areas of a residential property. The clients had selected a vinyl product designed to replicate the look of real wood parquet and wanted the classic herringbone layout that is popular in period London interiors. Modern luxury vinyl flooring has improved dramatically in quality and realism, and a well-installed herringbone vinyl floor can be a very attractive and practical alternative to real parquet at a significantly lower cost. Fitting costs for vinyl in London typically run from £35 to £60 per square metre for a standard installation, though herringbone layouts require additional time due to the precision involved in setting out the pattern.

The Challenge

A herringbone pattern is the most layout-sensitive of all floor designs. If the starting point is not precisely set, the pattern will drift visibly towards one wall by the time you reach the other side of the room. Setting out requires careful measurement of the room's geometry, identifying the true centre point and establishing a perfectly square reference grid before any plank is clicked into place. This room also had several doorways and an alcove that required the pattern to be carefully cut and maintained through the transitions without losing the herringbone rhythm. Getting the cut at each doorway to align correctly with the incoming planks took considerable care.

Our Approach

Subfloor preparation. The existing subfloor was checked for levelness and any high spots were addressed. Vinyl flooring is less forgiving than carpet over subfloor irregularities, because imperfections can telegraph through the planks and cause the clicks to work loose over time.

Setting out the pattern. We measured the room carefully and established the central axis and reference lines in pencil before starting. The first planks were laid from the centre outward to ensure the pattern was balanced on both sides of the room.

Laying the planks. The click-together vinyl planks were laid progressively outward from the centre, cutting each perimeter plank precisely to maintain the herringbone angle at the edges. Doorways and transitions were handled individually to ensure clean, tight joins.

Finishing touches. Beading was fitted around the perimeter to cover the expansion gap and give a clean edge. Threshold strips were fitted at doorways to protect the cut edges of the floor and provide a tidy transition to other floor surfaces.

The Result

The finished floor looked considerably better than the clients had anticipated. The herringbone pattern ran consistently and crisply across the whole room, the perimeter beading gave a neat finish to the edges, and the threshold strips looked tidy at each doorway. The floor had the visual impact of a real parquet floor at a fraction of the cost, and the vinyl material is far more resilient to spills and moisture than real wood, which is a practical benefit in a busy London home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is professional fitting necessary for herringbone vinyl, or is it a DIY job?
The click system makes the planks themselves easy to handle, but achieving a precise herringbone layout requires accurate setting-out that most DIY installers struggle with. A pattern that starts slightly off-square will visibly skew by the time it reaches the far wall. Professional fitting ensures the pattern looks right across the whole room.

Can luxury vinyl herringbone be fitted over existing flooring?
In many cases yes, provided the existing floor is sound, level and firmly bonded to the subfloor. Vinyl should not be fitted over a floor that has any give or movement, as this will cause the click joints to work loose over time.

How does luxury vinyl compare to real parquet in terms of durability?
Vinyl is generally more resistant to moisture and spills than real wood and does not require any sanding or refinishing over its lifetime. Real wood parquet, however, can be sanded and restored many times and tends to last much longer overall. The right choice depends on the client's budget and priorities.

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Project Overview This engineered wood floor in St Albans had accumulated significant surface wear over the years and had reached the point where the old lacquer finish offered little protection and the floor simply looked tired. The owners contacted us for a professional sanding and relacquering service to restore the floor to its original condition. Engineered wood floors can be sanded and refin...

Project Overview

This engineered wood floor in St Albans had accumulated significant surface wear over the years and had reached the point where the old lacquer finish offered little protection and the floor simply looked tired. The owners contacted us for a professional sanding and relacquering service to restore the floor to its original condition. Engineered wood floors can be sanded and refinished when the wear layer above the ply core is thick enough, and in this case there was sufficient material to carry out a full sand. The project was completed with minimal disruption and the results were exactly what the owners were looking for.

The Challenge

One of the most important aspects of sanding an engineered wood floor is controlling the amount of material removed. The top hardwood layer on this floor was sufficient for a full sand, but the operation still required careful machine setup and consistent passes to avoid removing too much material in any one area. The previous finish had also been applied quite thickly in places, meaning the initial passes needed to be thorough enough to cut through the old lacquer completely, without going too deep into the underlying wood. Achieving a completely even surface across a full room, including the areas near walls where the large drum sander cannot reach, is always a test of technique.

Our Approach

Condition assessment. We checked the thickness of the wear layer at several points and confirmed the floor could take a full sand. We also noted the areas of heaviest wear and the state of the previous finish to plan the grit sequence appropriately.

Main floor sanding. Starting with a medium grit to cut through the old finish and surface imperfections, we worked progressively through finer grits to produce a smooth, consistent surface. The advanced sanding equipment used collects the vast majority of dust during the process, leaving very little residue to clean up afterwards.

Edge and corner work. The perimeter was sanded with an edge sander, and corners were completed by hand scraper to ensure no finish remained near the walls.

Lacquer finish. Two coats of lacquer were applied with full curing time between coats. The lacquer creates a hard, clear film on the surface that protects against scratches and everyday wear while allowing the natural appearance of the wood to show clearly.

The Result

The floor looked completely renewed after the sanding and lacquering. The surface was even and smooth throughout, the lacquer gave a clear, consistent sheen, and all the scratches and scuff marks from the previous years of use had been removed. The owners were very pleased with the outcome, and the floor is now well-protected for many years of continued use before another sand will be needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my engineered floor has enough wear layer left for sanding?
The safe way to check is to have a professional measure the thickness of the top layer before starting. Most engineered floors with a 3mm or thicker wear layer can take at least one full sand. Floors with a 2mm layer can usually manage a light buff and re-coat but not a full sand.

Does professional sanding equipment create a lot of dust?
Modern professional sanding equipment is fitted with dust extraction systems that collect most of the material during sanding. There is always some fine dust that settles in the room, but the quantity is significantly less than older belt sander systems, and a quick clean-up is all that is needed after the job.

How long does a professional sanding and lacquering job take?
A standard room of 20 to 30 square metres typically takes one day for sanding and the application of the first lacquer coat, and a second visit the following day for the final coat. The floor can usually be walked on lightly within 24 hours of the last coat.

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Project Overview This Dalston property had engineered wood flooring throughout the main rooms and a wooden staircase connecting the floors. Both had reached a state where the finish was worn, scratches were visible across most of the surface, and the overall appearance let down an otherwise well-presented home. The owners wanted everything done in a single job to get a consistent result and avoid...

Project Overview

This Dalston property had engineered wood flooring throughout the main rooms and a wooden staircase connecting the floors. Both had reached a state where the finish was worn, scratches were visible across most of the surface, and the overall appearance let down an otherwise well-presented home. The owners wanted everything done in a single job to get a consistent result and avoid the disruption of two separate visits. Combining floor and stair sanding is the most practical approach and ensures the finish matches across the whole property.

The Challenge

Engineered wood floors have a real hardwood top layer over a plywood core, which means the number of times they can be sanded is limited by the thickness of that layer. This floor had been sanded once previously, so care was needed to ensure we did not go through the wear layer during this second sand. The staircase presented additional challenges: the treads were heavily worn in the centre, particularly on the landing and the three steps immediately below it. Sanding these areas down to match the worn but less-used edges required careful grading to avoid creating a concave shape across the tread surface.

Our Approach

Assessment and grit selection. We measured the remaining wear layer on the engineered floor and confirmed that a medium-grit approach was appropriate. Going in with coarser grit would have been unnecessarily aggressive given the condition of the floor.

Floor sanding. The floor was sanded across multiple passes with progressively finer grits to remove the old finish and surface marks without taking more material than necessary. Edges and corners were hand-finished to match.

Stair sanding. Each tread was sanded individually using appropriate equipment for the tread width. The worn centres of the busiest treads were brought down gradually using medium grit to blend with the less-worn areas, creating an even surface across each tread without any obvious dip.

Lacquer application. The floor and stairs were both finished with two coats of lacquer, applied in the correct sequence to avoid walking over freshly finished surfaces during application. Lacquer was the right choice for both because of its hard-wearing properties in high-traffic conditions.

The Result

The finished floor and staircase were consistent in appearance and well-protected. The lacquer gave both surfaces the same clear, clean finish, and the scratches and worn areas that had been so visible before were completely gone. The owners commented that the staircase in particular looked better than they had expected, given how heavy the wear had been. The property as a whole looked noticeably smarter once the floor and stairs were in good condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many times can an engineered wood floor be sanded?
This depends entirely on the thickness of the top hardwood layer. A 6mm wear layer can typically support three or four full sanding cycles. A 3mm layer may only allow one or two. Each time the floor is sanded, a professional should assess how much material remains before proceeding.

How are heavily worn stair treads repaired during sanding?
Worn treads are sanded progressively to reduce the high spots around the edges down to the level of the worn centre. The key is to work gradually and check frequently to avoid creating a dip in the tread surface. In extreme cases, a filler or levelling compound may be used before sanding begins.

Is it possible to use the stairs during a floor sanding job?
During the sanding and lacquering process, access is usually restricted for periods to allow the finish to cure. The sequence of work is planned so that the stairs remain accessible for at least one direction of travel until the lacquer is dry enough for foot traffic.

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Project Overview This engineered wood floor in Harrow was in need of a professional sanding and refinishing service after years of daily use had taken their toll on the finish. The floor itself was structurally sound; the issue was entirely cosmetic and protective, with the old lacquer worn through in places and the surface showing scratches and dull patches throughout. The owners had done their ...

Project Overview

This engineered wood floor in Harrow was in need of a professional sanding and refinishing service after years of daily use had taken their toll on the finish. The floor itself was structurally sound; the issue was entirely cosmetic and protective, with the old lacquer worn through in places and the surface showing scratches and dull patches throughout. The owners had done their research and understood that engineered wood floors, unlike laminate, are made from real wood and can be sanded and refinished to restore them. We were asked to sand the floor and apply a high-quality lacquer appropriate for the level of traffic in the property.

The Challenge

The primary challenge on this job was the choice of finishing product. The property had a busy household with children and pets, meaning the floor needed a lacquer that could genuinely handle the demands placed on it. Standard lacquers vary considerably in hardness and durability, and not all of them are suitable for very high traffic conditions. Choosing the wrong product would mean the finish showing wear again within a year, which would be a waste of the sanding work. We also needed to ensure the sanding was thorough enough to remove all traces of the old finish, because any remaining old lacquer under the new coat creates a weak bond that causes the new finish to peel or flake prematurely.

Our Approach

Surface preparation check. We tested whether the existing finish had fully failed or just worn in patches. Where old lacquer remained, the sand had to be deep enough to remove it completely before the new finish was applied.

Progressive sanding. Starting at medium grit to cut through the old finish and bring the entire surface back to bare wood, we progressed through finer grits to achieve a smooth, consistent finish ready for coating. Edge sanding and hand scraping completed the perimeter.

Product selection. For this project we used Bona Traffic HD matt, a commercial-grade lacquer designed specifically for floors subject to high traffic. It is harder than standard domestic lacquers and maintains its protective properties for considerably longer under heavy use.

Lacquer application. Two coats were applied in full accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines, with the recommended interval between coats to allow proper curing before the second coat was laid on top.

The Result

The floor looked outstanding once completed. The Bona Traffic HD matt gave a clean, low-sheen finish that showed the natural beauty of the wood without the high-gloss appearance some people find too formal. The surface was smooth and uniform throughout, and the hardness of the lacquer means this floor will stand up to the demands of a busy household for several years before needing any further treatment. The owners were very happy with both the appearance and the practical durability of the result.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Bona Traffic HD different from standard lacquer?
Bona Traffic HD is a two-component commercial lacquer that is significantly harder than most single-component domestic lacquers. It is designed for use in commercial and high-traffic residential settings where standard finishes would show wear too quickly. The main practical difference is that it maintains its protective properties for much longer under heavy daily use.

Can all engineered wood floors be sanded regardless of thickness?
No. The number of sanding cycles available depends on the thickness of the hardwood top layer. Floors with a 2mm or thinner wear layer cannot be sanded without risk of breaking through to the plywood core. A professional assessment of the remaining thickness is always the first step.

How long does Bona Traffic HD take to fully cure?
The floor can take light foot traffic within about 24 hours, but full hardness is not reached for five to seven days. During this curing period, furniture should not be placed back on the floor and the surface should not be cleaned with water or cleaning products.

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Project Overview This hardwood floor in Chelsea covered the main living areas of a well-appointed residential property. The floor was original to the building, made from quality timber that simply needed proper attention after years of use. In addition to the main floor, the kitchen had solid wood worktops that had also deteriorated and needed refinishing. Both the floor and the worktops were tre...

Project Overview

This hardwood floor in Chelsea covered the main living areas of a well-appointed residential property. The floor was original to the building, made from quality timber that simply needed proper attention after years of use. In addition to the main floor, the kitchen had solid wood worktops that had also deteriorated and needed refinishing. Both the floor and the worktops were treated in the same visit, using different products appropriate for each surface. Hardwood floor sanding in London is priced from around £25 to £45 per square metre for standard work, with additional elements like worktop refinishing quoted separately based on the scope involved.

The Challenge

The kitchen worktops presented a particular challenge because they required a different product to the floor. Floor lacquers are formulated for horizontal foot traffic; worktops need a food-safe, heat-resistant and water-resistant finish that can handle the specific demands of food preparation and kitchen use. The existing worktop finish had failed significantly, with water damage visible around the sink area and heat marks near the hob. The floor itself was in moderately poor condition with deep scratches in the highest-traffic areas and a finish that had completely worn through in several places, exposing bare wood that was starting to absorb dirt and staining.

Our Approach

Floor inspection and planning. The full extent of the finish failure was mapped across the floor before sanding. The deeply worn areas near doorways required slightly more passes to ensure all traces of the old lacquer were removed down to bare wood.

Floor sanding sequence. The floor was sanded in three stages: initial medium-grit passes to remove the old finish and deep scratches, then progressively finer grits to refine the surface. Edging and corners were completed by hand.

Lacquer application to floor. Two coats of a quality clear lacquer were applied to the floor, with curing time between coats and a light buff before the final coat to ensure the best possible surface.

Worktop refinishing. The kitchen worktops were sanded back individually using hand and detail sanders, then finished with Osmo Oil Clear matt, which is food-safe, water-resistant and designed specifically for use on wood surfaces that come into contact with food and liquids.

The Result

Both the floor and the worktops came up to a very high standard. The floor had a clean, even lacquer finish that brought out the depth and character of the hardwood, and every scratch and worn patch from the previous years of use had been completely removed. The worktops looked as good as they did when new, with the Osmo oil giving a natural, low-sheen finish that suited the kitchen perfectly. The whole property benefited from the work, and the owners now have a floor and worktops that are properly protected and easy to maintain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can solid wood kitchen worktops be refinished in the same way as floors?
Yes, but they require a different product. Floor lacquers are not appropriate for worktops because they are not food-safe. Wood worktops are best refinished with a specialist food-safe oil such as Osmo Oil, which penetrates the grain and provides water and heat resistance without creating a surface film that can chip or peel.

How many times can a hardwood floor be sanded over its lifetime?
A solid hardwood floor of typical 20mm thickness can usually be sanded eight to ten times, removing approximately 1mm to 2mm of wood per full sanding cycle. This means a well-maintained hardwood floor can last well over a century with periodic professional care.

What is the best finish for a hardwood floor in a busy Chelsea property?
Lacquer is the most practical choice for properties where the floor receives heavy use and where a durable, easy-to-clean surface is a priority. For a more natural look and feel, an oil finish is an excellent alternative, though it requires more frequent maintenance.

Have a similar project? Call us on 020 88309782 or Book a Free Site Visit