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Hardwood Floor Installation and Sanding in Northwood - Full Case Study

Project Overview This Northwood property had a new hardwood floor installed and sanded as a complete project. The client had chosen unfinished solid oak boards for the main reception room, wanting a traditional solid wood floor that could be sanded and finished on site to their exact specification. The installation, on-site sanding, and oil finish were all handled as a single project, from subflo...

Project Overview

This Northwood property had a new hardwood floor installed and sanded as a complete project. The client had chosen unfinished solid oak boards for the main reception room, wanting a traditional solid wood floor that could be sanded and finished on site to their exact specification. The installation, on-site sanding, and oil finish were all handled as a single project, from subfloor preparation through to final coat.

Subfloor before hardwood installation in Northwood

The Challenge

Installing solid hardwood floors requires more subfloor preparation and care than engineered boards. Solid wood is more sensitive to moisture and will move significantly if the subfloor is not completely dry, the room is not at a stable temperature and humidity, or the boards are not given sufficient time to acclimatise before fitting. Getting the subfloor condition right is not optional with solid wood. Skipping or rushing these steps is the most common cause of problems after installation. The room in this property also had a bay window area that required careful planning to keep the floor pattern consistent around the projection without leaving awkward cut pieces in the most visible part of the room.

Hardwood boards before fitting, Northwood

Our Approach

Subfloor Preparation

The subfloor was thoroughly checked for levelness, moisture content, and structural soundness. A plywood overlay was installed to provide a stable, flat base for the hardwood boards. This is standard practice when laying solid wood over an older concrete or suspended timber subfloor, as it provides a consistent nailing or stapling surface and helps buffer any residual moisture variation in the subfloor below.

Acclimatisation

The solid oak boards were delivered to the property and left in the room where they would be fitted for the full manufacturer-recommended acclimatisation period. This is a step we take seriously, as the amount of movement in a solid wood floor post-installation is directly related to how well the boards were acclimatised before fitting.

Hardwood floor installation in progress, Northwood

Board Installation

The boards were installed using a secret-nail method, working from the straightest wall and using a board straightener to keep each run tight and aligned. The bay window area was planned from the outset to keep the board layout symmetrical and avoid cuts at the focal points of the room.

On-Site Sanding and Finishing

Once installed and allowed to settle, the floor was sanded through a multi-stage programme starting with a levelling grit and finishing with a fine grit ready for the oil application. A natural hardwax oil was applied in two coats, buffed between each, giving the oak a warm, open-grained finish that suits the character of the room well.

The Result

The finished floor is a significant improvement to the reception room. The solid oak has a warmth and depth that suits the property, the grain reads well across the space, and the oil finish gives good protection without adding any artificial sheen. The client was particularly pleased with the bay window layout, which came out cleanly and consistently. Solid hardwood floor installation and sanding in the Northwood area typically costs from around £50 to £80 per square metre for supply, fit, sand, and finish, depending on the timber species and the finish specification.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does solid wood need to acclimatise before fitting?
The standard recommendation is a minimum of three to five days in the room where the floor will be fitted, with the boards stacked so air can circulate around them. In older properties with older heating systems or in winter months when heating cycles are more pronounced, a longer acclimatisation period is advisable. We always recommend erring on the longer side rather than rushing this step.

Can a solid wood floor be installed in a kitchen or bathroom?
We generally advise against solid wood in kitchens and bathrooms due to the exposure to moisture. Engineered wood is a far better choice in these rooms and can be specified to look identical to solid wood from above. Solid wood is best used in rooms where moisture and temperature are well controlled, such as living rooms and bedrooms.

How many times can a solid hardwood floor be sanded in its lifetime?
This depends on the thickness of the boards and the amount removed with each sand. A 20mm solid oak board, for example, can typically be sanded four to six times over its lifetime before the tongue is approached. This makes solid hardwood one of the most long-lasting flooring options available, with a potential lifespan of many decades when maintained correctly.

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Parquet Floor Repair and Renovation in Winchmore Hill — Full Case Study

Project Overview This project in Winchmore Hill, North London, combined parquet floor repair, gap filling, sanding, and lacquering to bring an ageing floor back to a high standard. The property was a traditional semi-detached house with a herringbone parquet floor covering the hallway and reception room. Over the years, moisture fluctuations had caused a number of blocks to lift and some to de...

Parquet floor showing damage and gaps before repair in Winchmore Hill Close-up of parquet block damage and lifting before renovation

Project Overview

This project in Winchmore Hill, North London, combined parquet floor repair, gap filling, sanding, and lacquering to bring an ageing floor back to a high standard. The property was a traditional semi-detached house with a herringbone parquet floor covering the hallway and reception room. Over the years, moisture fluctuations had caused a number of blocks to lift and some to develop splits, while gaps between blocks had grown wide enough to trap dirt. Rather than replacing the floor entirely, the client chose a full restoration, which is considerably more cost-effective and preserves the original character of the floor.

The Challenge

The main complication here was the extent of the block damage. Several blocks were not just loose but had split along the grain, meaning they needed to be removed and replaced rather than simply re-glued. Finding matching replacement stock that would blend with the original aged oak was important, as poorly matched replacements can make a repaired floor look patchy. The floor also had a wide variation in gap size, with some sections being tight and others having gaps of two or three millimetres, requiring careful filler work to achieve a consistent result across the whole surface.

Our Approach

  1. Damage assessment: We mapped the floor systematically, marking every loose, cracked, or damaged block for attention before any sanding equipment was brought in.
  2. Block replacement: Damaged blocks were carefully removed to avoid disturbing the surrounding ones. Replacement blocks in matching oak were glued and clamped in position, allowed to cure fully overnight.
  3. Re-gluing loose blocks: Undamaged blocks that had lifted were cleaned of old adhesive residue, re-glued with a flexible wood adhesive, and weighted down until set.
  4. Gap filling: We mixed a two-part resin with sanding dust to produce a filler matching the floor's natural colour, packed this into every gap, and allowed it to fully harden before sanding commenced.
  5. Sanding: The surface was sanded in the correct diagonal sequence for herringbone parquet, moving through coarse, medium, and fine grits to achieve a flat, smooth result. Edge sanding was completed by hand in tight corners.
  6. Lacquering: Two base coats followed by a top coat of hard-wearing gloss lacquer finished the job. Each coat was lightly abraded between applications for good adhesion.

Parquet floor after repair, sanding and lacquering in Winchmore Hill

The Result

The finished floor looked consistent and clean, with no visible trace of the repaired sections. The gaps were gone, the surface was smooth, and the lacquer brought a warm sheen to the oak that the client had not seen since the floor was first installed. At around £70 to £100 per square metre for a full parquet restoration of this scope, the cost is significantly below that of a replacement floor, and the result is arguably better because the original wood carries character that new boards simply cannot replicate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you match replacement parquet blocks to the existing floor?

We source replacement blocks in the same species and, where possible, the same cut as the original. Once sanded and finished together, the natural wood tones blend well. In very old floors with heavily aged wood, a slight variation in tone can remain, but this is generally barely noticeable once the finish is applied across the whole surface.

Is gap filling in parquet floors a permanent fix?

A resin and dust filler in well-maintained conditions will last many years. Wood does expand and contract with seasonal humidity changes, so some hairline movement at the filler edges is normal. Keeping indoor humidity reasonably stable, ideally between 45 and 65 per cent, reduces this movement and extends the life of the fill.

Can all parquet floors be repaired rather than replaced?

Most can, provided the subfloor is sound and the boards have enough thickness remaining for sanding. Very thin parquet tiles or floors that have been sanded down close to their limit may not be suitable for further sanding. We assess this during a free pre-visit inspection before quoting.

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

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Hardwood Sanding and Restoration in Northwood, HA6 — Full Case Study

Project Overview This project involved the professional sanding and restoration of an existing wood floor at a property in Northwood, HA6. 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 Northwood, HA6. 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:

Floor condition before work at HA6 Floor condition before work at HA6 Floor condition before work at HA6

Our Approach

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

  • Hardwood - Sand, Buff & Lacquer
  • Hardwood Installation
  • Stairs - Sand & Seal
  • Tradition Solid Oak Flooring, Lacquered, 150x18 mm
  • Lift & Dispose Plywood

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:

Hardwood floor after sanding work in HA6 Hardwood floor after sanding work in HA6 Hardwood floor after sanding work in HA6

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

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Fitting Engineered Wood in Cricklewood, NW2 — Full Case Study

Project Overview This project involved the professional installation of engineered wood flooring at a property in Cricklewood, NW2. The client required a quality floor that would stand up to daily use and complement their interior. Our fitting team assessed the subfloor condition, carried out any necessary preparation work, and fitted the new floor to a high standard. Before the Work Prior to...

Project Overview

This project involved the professional installation of engineered wood flooring at a property in Cricklewood, NW2. The client required a quality floor that would stand up to daily use and complement their interior. Our fitting team assessed the subfloor condition, carried out any necessary preparation work, and fitted the new floor to a high standard.

Before the Work

Prior to installation, the existing floor covering was inspected and the subfloor was prepared to ensure it was flat, dry, and suitable for the new engineered wood. Any existing floor covering was lifted and disposed of cleanly before the fitting work began.

Survey photos showing the floor condition before work:

Floor condition before work at NW2 Floor condition before work at NW2

Our Approach

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

  • Beading Installation (incl. materials)
  • Doors Plus Frame Trimming (per door)
  • Engineered Flooring Installation
  • Furniture Moving
  • Thresholds & Fitting (inc. materials)
  • Duralay Timbermate Excel Silver Wood Floor & Laminate Underlay
  • Evolve American Engineered Oak Flooring, Natural, Smoked Brushed & Lacquered, 190x15x1900 mm

The Result

The completed engineered wood installation looked clean and finished throughout. Joins are tight, edges are neat, and the floor sits flat and stable. Beading and threshold strips were fitted where required to complete the job properly. The client was pleased with both the quality of the work and the appearance of the new floor.

Photos of the completed work:

Engineered Wood floor after fitting work in NW2 Engineered Wood floor after fitting work in NW2 Engineered Wood floor after fitting work in NW2

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does engineered wood installation take?
Most fitting jobs are completed within one to two days. Larger areas or more detailed layouts such as herringbone patterns take longer due to the additional cutting and positioning involved.

Do I need underlay?
Yes, underlay is required for most floor types and helps with insulation, sound deadening, and levelling minor subfloor imperfections. We can supply and fit appropriate underlay as part of the installation.

How much does floor fitting cost in London?
Fitting costs typically range from £35 to £60 per square metre depending on floor type and complexity. We provide a full written quote before starting any work.

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

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Parquet Sanding and Restoration in Esher, KT10 — Full Case Study

Project Overview This project involved the professional sanding and restoration of an existing wood floor at a property in Esher, KT10. 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 Esher, KT10. 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:

  • Gap Filling
  • Parquet - Sand, Buff & Lacquer
  • Install parquet in two fireplace hearts and space between two rooms

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:

Parquet floor after sanding work in KT10 Parquet floor after sanding work in KT10 Parquet floor after sanding work in KT10

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

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Engineered Wood Sanding and Restoration in Tadworth, KT20 — Full Case Study

Project Overview This project involved the professional sanding and restoration of an existing wood floor at a property in Tadworth, KT20. 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 Tadworth, KT20. 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:

Floor condition before work at KT20 Floor condition before work at KT20

Our Approach

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

  • Beading Installation (incl. materials)
  • Engineered - Sand, Buff & Lacquer
  • Engineered Flooring Installation
  • Duralay Heatflow Underlay For Wood Floors with Underfloor Heating
  • Tradition Engineered Oak Flooring, Rustic, Lacquered, 150x5x18 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:

Engineered Wood floor after sanding work in KT20 Engineered Wood floor after sanding work in KT20 Engineered Wood floor after sanding work in KT20

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

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Engineered Wood Floor Sanding and Oiling in Homerton — Full Case Study

Project Overview This engineered wood floor sanding and oiling project was completed at a residential property in Homerton, East London. The floor, installed around seven years before we were called in, was looking tired. The original oil finish had worn through in the main traffic lanes, leaving dry, unprotected wood exposed while the rest of the surface retained a patchy sheen. The client wa...

Engineered wood floor showing surface wear before sanding in Homerton Close-up of worn engineered wood surface prior to treatment

Project Overview

This engineered wood floor sanding and oiling project was completed at a residential property in Homerton, East London. The floor, installed around seven years before we were called in, was looking tired. The original oil finish had worn through in the main traffic lanes, leaving dry, unprotected wood exposed while the rest of the surface retained a patchy sheen. The client wanted a consistent, refreshed finish without a heavy lacquer look, so we agreed that a light surface sand followed by a quality oil re-coat was the right approach. Engineered floor sanding typically runs between £25 and £45 per square metre, depending on the level of work required.

The Challenge

The main thing to understand with engineered wood is that the real wood veneer on top is thinner than in solid boards, typically between three and six millimetres. This means there is a limited number of times the floor can be sanded before the veneer is too thin to work with safely. In this case, the floor had not been professionally sanded before, so we had good material to work with, but we still needed to be conservative with the depth of cut. A standard drum sander set too aggressively could remove more wood than necessary or, worse, break through the veneer into the plywood core below. The other challenge was the existing oil finish, which needed to be fully stripped to allow the new oil to penetrate the wood properly.

Our Approach

  1. Surface assessment: We measured the veneer thickness in a discreet corner to confirm adequate depth for sanding, then identified the worst-worn areas and checked for any cupped or warped boards.
  2. Light surface sanding: Using a buffing machine rather than a drum sander, we worked across the floor with a medium-grit abrasive pad to strip the old oil finish and smooth the surface. This technique removes far less material than a full drum sand while still achieving a clean base for re-oiling.
  3. Edge work: The perimeter was carefully sanded by hand with a detail sander to match the centre of the room without marking the skirting boards.
  4. Fine buffing: A finer abrasive pad completed the prep work, leaving the surface clean, open-grained, and ready for oil penetration.
  5. First oil coat: We applied a generous first coat of a high-quality hardwax oil, working it into the grain with a cloth applicator and allowing it to penetrate before removing any excess. This coat nourishes the wood and begins building protection.
  6. Second oil coat: After the first coat had cured overnight, we applied a second, thinner coat and buffed it to an even sheen. The finish is now consistent across the entire floor, with no more patchy worn areas.

Engineered wood floor after sanding and oiling treatment in Homerton

The Result

The floor looked completely different after treatment. The patchy, worn surface was replaced by a consistent, natural-looking finish that brought out the grain of the wood without making it look plastic or overly shiny. The oil soaks into the wood rather than sitting on top, which means it feels more natural underfoot and is far easier to spot-repair in future if a section gets damaged. The client was pleased with how much the floor had improved without the cost or disruption of replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many times can an engineered wood floor be sanded?

This depends on the thickness of the real wood veneer. A three-millimetre veneer can typically be lightly sanded once or twice. A six-millimetre veneer allows two or three full sands over the floor's lifetime. We always check the veneer depth before quoting to confirm sanding is viable.

What is the difference between an oil finish and a lacquer on engineered wood?

Oil penetrates the wood fibres and provides a natural look and feel. It is relatively easy to maintain, as you can re-oil specific areas without sanding the entire floor. Lacquer sits on the surface as a hard film, offering stronger protection in very high-traffic areas but requiring a full sand and re-coat when it wears through.

How long after oiling before the floor can be used?

With a hardwax oil, light foot traffic is usually fine after 24 hours. Full hardness and maximum protection develop over seven to ten days. We advise clients to avoid dragging heavy furniture across the floor for at least a week after treatment.

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

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Laminate Floor Fitting in Fulham — Full Case Study

Project Overview This laminate floor fitting project was completed at a flat in Fulham, West London. The client was renovating their living room and kitchen area and wanted a floor that would look great, stand up to daily use, and not cost a fortune. Laminate flooring was the natural choice. Modern laminate has come an enormous distance from the flimsy products sold in the 1990s. Today's board...

Old floor lifted and subfloor exposed before laminate fitting in Fulham Subfloor preparation stage during laminate installation in Fulham

Project Overview

This laminate floor fitting project was completed at a flat in Fulham, West London. The client was renovating their living room and kitchen area and wanted a floor that would look great, stand up to daily use, and not cost a fortune. Laminate flooring was the natural choice. Modern laminate has come an enormous distance from the flimsy products sold in the 1990s. Today's boards are thick, stable, and convincingly replicate the look and texture of real wood, including brushed finishes, hand-scraped effects, and natural grain variation. For a professional supply and fit, clients in London should expect to pay in the region of £35 to £60 per square metre, depending on the grade of laminate selected.

The Challenge

The room had an old carpet and underlay over a concrete subfloor that needed to be lifted before any fitting could begin. Concrete subfloors are unforgiving: any high spots or hollow areas will cause laminate boards to flex, click, and potentially crack at the joints over time. The concrete in this property had a few raised areas near a previous plumbing repair and some uneven dips near the wall. Getting this flat enough for floating laminate installation required careful grinding and levelling before the boards went down. Door frame clearances also needed to be checked, as the new floor raised the finished height by about twelve millimetres.

Our Approach

  1. Strip-out: We lifted and disposed of the existing carpet, gripper rods, and underlay, clearing the subfloor completely before starting any prep work.
  2. Subfloor preparation: The concrete was swept, vacuumed, and inspected for high spots. Raised areas were ground back with a belt sander and a self-levelling compound was poured over the low areas and feathered out to create a flat, smooth base.
  3. Damp-proof membrane: A polyethylene damp-proof membrane was laid over the concrete to prevent any residual moisture from migrating into the laminate boards and causing swelling or joint lift.
  4. Underlay installation: A quality foam underlay with a built-in moisture barrier was rolled out over the membrane. A good underlay is critical for reducing the hollow sound laminate can produce underfoot and for improving thermal insulation at floor level.
  5. Laminate fitting: The boards were fitted in a staggered brick-bond pattern, leaving the manufacturer-recommended expansion gap around the perimeter. Door frames were undercut to allow the boards to slide beneath, giving a clean finish without the need for ugly architrave trims.
  6. Finishing details: Scotia beading was fitted around the perimeter and colour-matched threshold strips were installed at every doorway to complete the job neatly.

Completed laminate floor installation in Fulham living room

The Result

The finished room looked clean, modern, and well-put-together. The laminate chosen had a natural oak tone with a lightly textured surface that worked well with the existing decor. The client commented that it looked far more like real wood than they had expected. The floor is now warm underfoot, quiet to walk on, and straightforward to keep clean. With normal care, a good quality laminate floor installed over a properly prepared subfloor will last fifteen to twenty-five years before replacement becomes necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need underlay under laminate flooring?

Yes, always. Underlay cushions the boards, reduces the hollow sound laminate can make underfoot, and helps with thermal insulation. Over a concrete subfloor, an underlay with an integrated damp-proof membrane is particularly important. Some laminate boards come with underlay pre-attached, but a separate, higher-quality underlay generally gives better results.

Can laminate be fitted over underfloor heating?

Many modern laminate products are compatible with underfloor heating, but the system temperature must not exceed 27 degrees Celsius at the surface and the floor should be allowed to acclimatise to the room for at least 48 hours before fitting. Always check the manufacturer's specifications for the laminate you are using.

How do I deal with gaps between laminate and skirting boards?

The expansion gap between the laminate and the wall is deliberate and necessary. It is covered by the skirting board or by a separate Scotia bead fitted over it. Never fill this gap with sealant or fix anything into it, as this prevents the floor from expanding and can cause buckling.

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

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Floorboards Sanding and Restoration in Streatham, SW16 — Full Case Study

Project Overview This project involved the professional sanding and restoration of an existing wood floor at a property in Streatham, SW16. 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 Streatham, SW16. 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:

Floor condition before work at SW16 Floor condition before work at SW16 Floor condition before work at SW16

Our Approach

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

  • Floorboards - Fireplace Heart Removal
  • Floorboards - Refitting
  • Floorboards - Replacement (incl. materials)
  • Floorboards - Sand, Buff & Lacquer
  • Gap Filling
  • Stairs - Sand & Seal
  • Stairs Step Fitting (Wooden Floors)

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:

Floorboards floor after sanding work in SW16 Floorboards floor after sanding work in SW16 Floorboards floor after sanding work in SW16

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

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Replacement and Fitting of Laminate in Fulham, SW6 — Full Case Study

Project Overview This project involved the professional installation of laminate flooring at a property in Fulham, SW6. The client required a quality floor that would stand up to daily use and complement their interior. Our fitting team assessed the subfloor condition, carried out any necessary preparation work, and fitted the new floor to a high standard. Before the Work Prior to installatio...

Project Overview

This project involved the professional installation of laminate flooring at a property in Fulham, SW6. The client required a quality floor that would stand up to daily use and complement their interior. Our fitting team assessed the subfloor condition, carried out any necessary preparation work, and fitted the new floor to a high standard.

Before the Work

Prior to installation, the existing floor covering was inspected and the subfloor was prepared to ensure it was flat, dry, and suitable for the new laminate. Any existing floor covering was lifted and disposed of cleanly before the fitting work began.

Survey photos showing the floor condition before work:

Floor condition before work at SW6 Floor condition before work at SW6 Floor condition before work at SW6

Our Approach

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

  • Beading Installation (incl. materials)
  • Doors Plus Frame Trimming (per door)
  • Laminate Floor Installation
  • Lift & Dispose Carpets or Laminates
  • Thresholds & Fitting (inc. materials)
  • Duralay Timbermate Excel Silver Wood Floor & Laminate Underlay
  • QuickStep ELIGNA Natural Varnished Oak Laminate Flooring 8 mm

The Result

The completed laminate installation looked clean and finished throughout. Joins are tight, edges are neat, and the floor sits flat and stable. Beading and threshold strips were fitted where required to complete the job properly. The client was pleased with both the quality of the work and the appearance of the new floor.

Photos of the completed work:

Laminate floor after fitting work in SW6 Laminate floor after fitting work in SW6 Laminate floor after fitting work in SW6

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does laminate installation take?
Most fitting jobs are completed within one to two days. Larger areas or more detailed layouts such as herringbone patterns take longer due to the additional cutting and positioning involved.

Do I need underlay?
Yes, underlay is required for most floor types and helps with insulation, sound deadening, and levelling minor subfloor imperfections. We can supply and fit appropriate underlay as part of the installation.

How much does floor fitting cost in London?
Fitting costs typically range from £35 to £60 per square metre depending on floor type and complexity. We provide a full written quote before starting any work.

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

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FlooringFirst! Services
158 Coles Green Road
London, NW2 7HW
T: 020 88309782
Floor Sanding Services: Central London, East London, Near London, North London, Northwest London, Southeast London, Southwest London, West London
Wood Floor Installation Service: Central London, East London, Near London, North London, Northwest London, Southeast London, Southwest London, West London

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