Hardwood Floor Installation

At FlooringFirst!, we specialise in expert hardwood floor installation in London, delivering precision craftsmanship and long-lasting results. While solid wood flooring offers timeless beauty, achieving a flawless finish requires professional knowledge, skill, and the right equipment. Our experienced teams ensure every detail is perfect — from subfloor preparation to the final plank laid.

Installing a hardwood floor may seem straightforward, but factors like humidity control, acclimatisation, and proper material handling play a crucial role in the outcome. Incorrect fitting can lead to costly repairs down the line. That's why trusting professionals with your wooden floor installation is a smart investment.

Essential Preparation for Hardwood Floor Fitting

Before installation begins, maintaining optimal humidity levels between 50-60% and a room temperature of approximately 18°C is vital. Additionally, you should:

• Allow floorboards to acclimatise in the installation room for at least 7-8 days.
• Ensure subfloors are dry, level, and suitable for wood floor fitting.
• Keep all doors, windows, and entry points closed to stabilise indoor conditions.
• Check heating systems and pipes to avoid hidden moisture problems.

Key Preparation Checklist:

• Use high-quality materials for a lasting finish.
• Prepare the subfloor properly, adding underlayment for floating installations.
• Have all necessary tools and equipment ready.
• Ensure full acclimatisation of your floorboards.
• Clear all furniture from the installation area.

For guidance on maintaining your floors post-installation, see our wood floor restoration services page.

Ready to transform your living space? Contact our London hardwood floor installation specialists today for a free consultation and quote.

How we Install Solid Wood Flooring

At FlooringFirst!, we provide expert solid wood flooring installation in London, ensuring each project is handled with precision and care. While solid wood floors can be installed over various subfloors, correct preparation is crucial to prevent issues like squeaky joints, warped boards, or buckling.

Subfloor Preparation: The Foundation of Success

Whether installing over a dry concrete subfloor, chipboard, plywood, or joists, preparation is key:

• Ensure the surface is level, dry, and clean.
• Cover concrete subfloors with an underlay and a damp-proof membrane.
• Treat joists with a moisture barrier before installation.
• Check and repair all pipework to avoid hidden moisture issues.

Always follow the manufacturer's tolerances and guidelines for floorboard installation to achieve optimal results.

Solid Wood Installation Methods

Depending on your subfloor and project specifics, we use one of the following installation methods:

• Nailing Down: Secret nailing to wooden subfloors, plywood, or battens, ensuring stability and strength. Adhesive is also used on plywood for extra hold.
• Glueing Down: Ideal for concrete subfloors with appropriate moisture protection.
• Floating Installation: Suitable for engineered floors or when working with uneven subfloors.

During installation, we maintain a 4-inch expansion gap around the room perimeter, which is later covered by skirting boards. Precision is critical — the first few rows of floorboards are aligned perfectly to ensure a flawless result.

Why Trust FlooringFirst! for Hardwood Floor Installation?

• 20+ years of experience fitting solid wood floors across London.
• Tailored advice based on your floor type, subfloor, and property specifics.
• Use of top-quality materials and professional-grade tools.
• Full-service approach: sanding, staining, fitting & finishing.

Don't risk costly mistakes with DIY attempts — trust the experts. Contact our London hardwood floor installation team today for a free consultation and quote. With FlooringFirst!, your project is in safe hands.

Our flooring service comes with obligation-free site visit, quick quotations and free advice. Give us a call on 020 88309782 to speak to a member of our staff, who can arrange for a free assessment of your floor sanding or wood floor fitting service at a convenient for you time.