Project Overview
This project in Chiswick involved stripping out an existing hardwood floor and replacing it with Evolve American Engineered Oak in a natural wheat finish. The 125x18xRL planks were fitted throughout the property, with underlay, beading, thresholds, and door trimming all completed as part of the job. Fitting costs for engineered wood typically run between £35 and £60 per square metre depending on floor size and access.
The Challenge
Before our team began work, we carefully lifted and disposed of the existing hardwood flooring. This essential preparatory step cleared the way for a fresh installation. Following the strip-out, meticulous attention was given to the subfloor — checking levels, filling any low spots, and priming the surface so the new engineered oak would sit flat and stable across the entire area.
Our Approach
With the subfloor ready, we moved through the installation in a logical sequence:
- Underlay installation: We fitted Duralay Timbermate Excel Silver Wood Floor and Laminate Underlay. This provides a cushioning layer underfoot and acts as a moisture barrier, which is particularly important for engineered wood in older properties.
- Plank laying: Each 125x18xRL Evolve American Engineered Oak plank was laid with precision, working from a straight datum line to keep the pattern consistent across the room. The natural wheat tone of the oak creates an even, warm appearance that ties well with both period and contemporary interiors.
- Beading and trims: Beading was fitted along the perimeter to cover the expansion gap and give the floor a clean edge against the skirting. This detail makes a real difference to the finished appearance.
- Thresholds: Threshold strips were installed at doorways to provide a tidy transition between the new floor and adjoining rooms or surfaces.
- Door trimming: Doors and frames were undercut to accommodate the new floor height, so every door swings freely without catching.
The Result
The Duralay Timbermate Excel Silver underlay was expertly fitted before the engineered oak planks were laid. Each plank was positioned with care, creating a consistent, attractive appearance across the space. The natural grain of the American oak brought warmth into the home. Beading, thresholds, and trimmed doors gave the entire project a finished, professional look. The client in Chiswick now has a durable, attractive floor that will perform well for many years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does engineered wood floor fitting take in a typical home?
A: A single room of average size generally takes one to two days, including subfloor preparation and fitting all trims and thresholds. Larger properties or multiple rooms will extend this. We always give a specific timeframe when quoting.
Q: What is the advantage of Duralay Timbermate Excel Silver underlay?
A: It combines good acoustic dampening with a built-in vapour check layer. This means the floor feels solid underfoot and is protected from moisture rising from the subfloor — a key consideration in many London properties with suspended timber or concrete subfloors.
Q: Can engineered oak be sanded and refinished in the future?
A: Yes, most quality engineered oak boards with a wear layer of 3mm or more can be lightly sanded and refinished once or twice during their lifetime. The 18mm boards used here have a substantial wear layer, so future restoration is an option if needed.