Project Overview
This project in Woolwich involved the installation of a laminate floor as part of a home improvement. Laminate is a practical choice for clients who want the appearance of a wood floor at a more manageable cost. It is durable, hard-wearing, and available in a wide range of finishes. Laminate floor fitting typically costs between £35 and £55 per square metre, including underlayment and all trims.
The Challenge
Laminate flooring is often overlooked in favour of real wood, but the two are closer in terms of appearance and performance than many people expect. Laminate is not made from solid timber — it is designed to replicate the look of wood — but it delivers genuine durability and an attractive finish at a lower cost. It is also resistant to scratching and fading in a way that makes it well-suited to busy households. This Woolwich project gave us the opportunity to demonstrate what a well-executed laminate installation can look like.
Our Approach
- Subfloor inspection: The most important first step in any floor installation is checking the condition of the subfloor. For laminate to sit properly and perform well over time, the subfloor must be dry, level, and free of imperfections. We checked moisture levels and addressed any variations in level before proceeding.
- Underlayment installation: A quality underlay was fitted across the subfloor. The underlay acts as a moisture barrier and provides a cushioning layer underfoot. Good underlay also improves the acoustic performance of the floor, reducing the hollow sound that can occur with laminate if a cheap or absent underlay is used.
- Laminate installation: Boards were clicked into place working from one wall outward. Expansion gaps were maintained at the perimeter to allow for movement with changes in humidity.
- Trims and finishing: Beading and threshold strips were fitted to complete the edges and transitions, giving the installation a clean, finished appearance.
The Result
Once the subfloor was right, the underlayment was down, and the laminate boards were installed, the difference in the room was immediate. Laminate gives the look of a wood floor at a budget that works for many more households, and when it is installed correctly it holds up very well over time. The Woolwich client now has a practical, attractive floor that is easy to maintain and will handle daily use without showing significant wear for many years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is laminate flooring suitable for kitchens and bathrooms?
A: Standard laminate is not recommended for wet rooms or bathrooms due to the risk of moisture getting between the joints. However, there are water-resistant and fully waterproof laminate products available that are suitable for kitchens and utility rooms. We discuss the right product for the specific area when quoting.
Q: Can laminate flooring be repaired if a board gets damaged?
A: Individual planks can be replaced if they are badly damaged, though this is easier in a floating installation than in one where boards have been glued. Minor surface scratches can sometimes be filled with a matching repair kit. Keeping a few spare boards from the original installation is always a good idea.
Q: How long does laminate floor installation take?
A: Most rooms can be completed within a day, including subfloor preparation, underlayment, and fitting all the trims. Larger areas or rooms with complex shapes take longer. We give a specific timeframe when we visit to measure up and quote.