Floor Sanding Case Studies

Project Overview This project involved the professional sanding and restoration of an existing wood floor at a property in Islington, N19. 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 Islington, N19. 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 - Replacement (incl. materials)
• Floorboards - Sand, Buff & Lacquer
• Gap Filling
• Lift Carpets or Laminates
• Extra Day Delay
• Strip Filling

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 in Islington, N19 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 in Islington, N19?
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 Islington, N19?
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 Greenford, UB6. The floor had seen years of daily wear and needed attention to restore its 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 W...

Project Overview

This project involved the professional sanding and restoration of an existing wood floor at a property in Greenford, UB6. The floor had seen years of daily wear and needed attention to restore its 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 conducted to determine the correct sanding depth, assess board condition, and select the most appropriate finish for the space.

Our Approach

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

• Return to fix issues

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 in Greenford, UB6 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 in Greenford, UB6?
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 Greenford, UB6?
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 installation of engineered wood flooring at a property in Abbey Wood, SE2. 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 Abbey Wood, SE2. 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:

Our Approach

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

• Door Frame Trimming
• Doors Plus Frame Trimming (per door)
• Engineered Flooring Installation
• Thresholds & Fitting (inc. materials)
• Door Coir Matt Supply & Install

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:

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does engineered wood installation in Abbey Wood, SE2 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 Abbey Wood, SE2?
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

Project Overview This project involved the professional installation of laminate flooring at a property in Acton, W3. 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,...

Project Overview

This project involved the professional installation of laminate flooring at a property in Acton, W3. 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:

Our Approach

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

• Beading Installation (incl. materials)
• Door Frame Trimming
• Laminate Floor Installation

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:

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does laminate installation in Acton, W3 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 Acton, W3?
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

Project Overview This project involved the professional sanding and restoration of an existing wood floor at a property in Stockwell, SW9. The floor had seen years of daily wear and needed attention to restore its 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 W...

Project Overview

This project involved the professional sanding and restoration of an existing wood floor at a property in Stockwell, SW9. The floor had seen years of daily wear and needed attention to restore its 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 conducted to determine the correct sanding depth, assess board condition, and select 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 - Replacement (incl. materials)
• Floorboards - Sand, Buff & Lacquer
• Gap Filling
• Lift & Dispose Carpets or Laminates
• Staining
• Stairs - Sand & Seal

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 in Stockwell, SW9 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 in Stockwell, SW9?
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 Stockwell, SW9?
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 installation of engineered wood flooring at a property in Walworth, SE17. 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 i...

Project Overview

This project involved the professional installation of engineered wood flooring at a property in Walworth, SE17. 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:

Our Approach

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

• Door Frame Trimming
• Doors Plus Frame Trimming (per door)
• Engineered Flooring Installation
• Furniture Moving
• Lift & Dispose Hardwood Flooring
• Skirting Board Removal
• Skirting Boards Installation (excl. materials)
• Skirting Boards Installation (incl. materials)
• Thresholds & Fitting (inc. materials)
• Skirting Board

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:

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does engineered wood installation in Walworth, SE17 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 Walworth, SE17?
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

Project Overview This project involved the professional sanding and restoration of an existing wood floor at a property in Mortlake, SW14. The floor had seen years of daily wear and needed attention to restore its 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 W...

Project Overview

This project involved the professional sanding and restoration of an existing wood floor at a property in Mortlake, SW14. The floor had seen years of daily wear and needed attention to restore its 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 conducted to determine the correct sanding depth, assess board condition, and select 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:

• Expansion gap extension

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 in Mortlake, SW14 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 in Mortlake, SW14?
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 Mortlake, SW14?
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 wood floor project in Stockwell involved repairing a significantly worn and damaged solid wood floor before refinishing and staining it to a new colour. The floor had not been professionally maintained for many years and showed cracked boards, a broken finish, deep scratches and some surface staining. The owners had considered replacing the floor entirely but asked us to ass...

Project Overview

This wood floor project in Stockwell involved repairing a significantly worn and damaged solid wood floor before refinishing and staining it to a new colour. The floor had not been professionally maintained for many years and showed cracked boards, a broken finish, deep scratches and some surface staining. The owners had considered replacing the floor entirely but asked us to assess it first. Our view was that the structural quality of the underlying boards was still good and that a full repair and refinish would deliver an excellent result.

The Challenge

Floors in this condition present multiple challenges at once. The cracked and split boards needed replacing before any sanding could start. Some of the deeper scratches went through the full thickness of the original finish and into the wood, which meant the sanding had to go deep enough to fully remove them. The staining added another variable -- the clients wanted a darker tone than the original wood but the replacement boards needed to take the stain at the same rate as the older, more weathered boards. This required some careful preparation of the new boards to open the grain and ensure even uptake.

Our Approach

• Board assessment and replacement: Each damaged board was marked during inspection. Boards beyond saving were lifted and replaced with matching profile timber.
• Coarse sanding: An aggressive first pass removed the old finish, corrected surface height differences and removed the deep scratch damage.
• Progressive sanding: Medium and fine passes brought the surface to a smooth, even condition across all areas including the repaired sections.
• New board preparation: The replacement boards were lightly sanded by hand before staining to open the grain and help them absorb the stain evenly.
• Staining: A darker wood stain was applied to the whole floor in even strokes and worked into the grain. A second coat was applied to areas that needed more depth.
• Lacquering: Two coats of satin lacquer were applied to protect the stain and give a finish that held up to daily use.

The Result

The floor came back looking far better than the clients had anticipated. The repaired boards blended in well under the stain and the darker colour gave the room a warmer, more contemporary feel. The whole job cost a fraction of what a replacement floor would have been and delivered a more characterful result. Professional sanding, staining and refinishing in London runs between £25 and £45 per square metre, with board replacement costed separately depending on the number of boards required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you match replacement boards to an old floor?
We do our best to source a matching species and profile. Staining makes this significantly easier as the colour correction helps blend old and new boards. For floors where no stain is being applied, the match will be close but the replacement boards will be visibly newer until they age naturally.

Does staining a floor make it harder to maintain?
No. A stained and lacquered floor maintains exactly the same way as any lacquered floor. Sweep regularly, clean with a slightly damp mop and avoid harsh chemicals. The stain is sealed under the lacquer and is not affected by normal cleaning.

Is Stockwell covered by your service area?
Yes. We regularly work in Stockwell, Clapham, Brixton, Vauxhall and the surrounding areas of south London.

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

Project Overview This project in Walworth involved fitting engineered wood flooring with an acoustic underlay across the main floor of a first-floor flat. The clients had an older, worn floor that they wanted to replace with a stylish but practical alternative. They chose a rustic-grade engineered oak for its character and warmth, and our recommendation to use a high-performance acoustic underlay...

Project Overview

This project in Walworth involved fitting engineered wood flooring with an acoustic underlay across the main floor of a first-floor flat. The clients had an older, worn floor that they wanted to replace with a stylish but practical alternative. They chose a rustic-grade engineered oak for its character and warmth, and our recommendation to use a high-performance acoustic underlay was accepted immediately, given their concern about noise impact on the flat below. The job covered the living room, hallway and two bedrooms.

The Challenge

The main challenge on this project was meeting the building's noise reduction requirements while also keeping the floor height increase to a minimum. High-performance acoustic underlays are thicker than standard foam underlays, which adds height. In this flat, several doorframes had limited clearance and we had to confirm the finished floor height before proceeding to ensure doors would clear the new surface. A couple of doors required the bottoms trimming once the floor was in, which we carried out on site.

Our Approach

• Strip-out: The old flooring was removed and the subfloor inspected for level and stability.
• Door height check: All internal doors were measured against the planned finished floor height to identify which ones would need trimming.
• Acoustic underlay: The specified acoustic underlay was laid and taped at all joints to form a continuous layer, providing both impact sound and thermal insulation.
• Engineered wood fitting: Rustic oak engineered boards were laid using a floating click-lock method, maintaining consistent expansion gaps at all walls and fixed points.
• Door trimming: Two internal doors were planed along the bottom edge on site to clear the new floor level.
• Trims: Matching beading and transition strips were fitted throughout to give a clean finish at all edges.

The Result

The finished floor looked excellent and the acoustic performance was immediately apparent -- the clients noticed a significant reduction in the hollow sound underfoot compared with the previous flooring. The rustic oak character added warmth and personality to the rooms. Engineered wood flooring supply and fit in London typically costs between £35 and £60 per square metre depending on the grade and profile chosen, with acoustic underlays adding a modest premium over standard products. The overall result was a floor the clients were very happy with and that met all the building's requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does all flooring in flats need an acoustic underlay?
Most leases for flats in England and Wales include a requirement for floor coverings to meet a minimum impact sound reduction standard. We always recommend checking your lease before fitting and can advise on underlay specifications that meet typical requirements.

What is rustic grade engineered wood?
Rustic grade boards include a greater number of natural features such as knots, colour variation and grain character. This is different from prime or select grade, which is more uniform. Rustic grade is popular for its warmer and more natural appearance.

Can engineered wood be fitted over underfloor heating?
Yes, engineered wood is generally more stable than solid wood and well suited to use over underfloor heating systems. Board thickness and species affect how efficiently heat transfers through, and we can advise on the best options at the survey stage.

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

Project Overview This engineered wood flooring installation in Abbey Wood replaced a solid wood floor that had been damaged beyond economical repair by repeated moisture fluctuations. The clients had chosen to move to engineered boards, which have a more dimensionally stable construction and are better suited to homes where humidity levels vary throughout the year. We fitted the new floor across ...

Project Overview

This engineered wood flooring installation in Abbey Wood replaced a solid wood floor that had been damaged beyond economical repair by repeated moisture fluctuations. The clients had chosen to move to engineered boards, which have a more dimensionally stable construction and are better suited to homes where humidity levels vary throughout the year. We fitted the new floor across the ground floor of the property, covering the living room, dining area and hallway.

The Challenge

The existing subfloor had been affected by the same moisture issues that had damaged the old solid wood floor. Before the new engineered boards could go down, the subfloor needed to be dried out properly and in some areas replaced where it had deteriorated. We also needed to identify and address the source of the moisture ingress before fitting -- there was no point fitting a new floor on a subfloor that was still damp. The moisture issue turned out to be a failed damp-proof membrane in part of the ground floor, which was treated and sealed before we proceeded.

Our Approach

• Subfloor investigation: Moisture readings were taken across the full area before any work began. Problem areas were mapped and the source of moisture identified.
• Remediation: The failed damp-proof membrane section was treated. Affected subfloor sections were replaced and allowed to dry to an acceptable moisture level before fitting.
• Acclimatisation: Engineered boards were left in the property for several days to adjust to the ambient conditions before fitting began.
• Installation: Boards were glued down to the subfloor rather than floated, which provides a more stable result in an environment with known moisture history. Gluing down also eliminates the hollow sound underfoot that floating installations can sometimes produce.
• Finishing: Expansion gaps were fitted at all walls and covered with matching beading. A final protective oil coat was applied across the whole floor.

The Result

The new floor looked fantastic and the clients immediately noticed how much more stable and solid it felt compared with the old floor in its later years. By addressing the moisture issue properly before fitting, we gave the new floor the best possible start. Engineered wood flooring supply and installation typically runs between £35 and £60 per square metre. The additional work on the subfloor was costed separately and transparently, and the clients felt the overall investment was excellent value given the quality of the result.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is engineered wood more stable than solid wood?
Engineered wood has a real wood top layer bonded to a core made of multiple layers of plywood or HDF. These layers are laid at opposing angles, which counteracts the natural tendency of wood to expand and contract with moisture changes. This makes it more suitable for ground floors and environments with variable humidity.

Should engineered wood be glued down or floated?
Both methods work well in different circumstances. Gluing down is preferable where the subfloor has a history of moisture issues or where a very solid feel underfoot is required. Floating is faster and makes the floor easier to remove in future if needed. We advise on the best method at the survey stage.

Do you cover Abbey Wood and southeast London?
Yes. We work across southeast London including Abbey Wood, Woolwich, Plumstead and the wider DA and SE postcode areas.

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