Ask the London Flooring Expert

Wood flooring offers durability, and timeless aesthetic appeal, and can add value to your property. It's also relatively easy to clean and maintain compared to other flooring types. Plus, wood floors are known for their eco-friendliness and natural warmth.

While DIY installation is possible for those with experience, hiring a professional can ensure a proper and seamless installation. They have the tools, expertise, and knowledge to handle potential challenges, resulting in a beautiful and lasting floor.

Minor scratches can often be repaired with touch-up kits or wood fillers matched to your floor's color. For deeper scratches or dents, it might be necessary to sand and refinish the affected area or the entire floor, depending on the severity.

The choice of wood depends on factors like your personal preferences, the room's usage, and your budget. Hardwoods like oak, maple, and cherry are popular for their durability and elegance, while softwoods like pine can provide a more rustic look. Consider the wood's hardness, grain pattern, and color when making your decision.

Solid hardwood is made from a single piece of wood and can be refinished multiple times. Engineered wood consists of multiple layers, with a real wood veneer on top. It's more stable in humid environments and can be a good choice for basements. Choose solid hardwood for traditional charm and engineered wood for versatility.

Regular maintenance involves sweeping or vacuuming to remove dirt and debris, using a slightly damp mop for gentle cleaning, and promptly addressing spills to prevent water damage. Use manufacturer-recommended cleaning products and avoid excessive water exposure to prevent warping or staining.

While wood flooring can be used in these areas, it's important to choose appropriate wood types like engineered wood that are less prone to moisture damage. Also, ensure proper sealing and maintenance to prevent water penetration.

Wood is sensitive to changes in humidity and temperature, which can cause expansion, contraction, and warping. Maintaining a consistent indoor environment with a humidity level of around 40-60% can help minimise these effects and preserve the integrity of your wood flooring.

Yes, it's possible to change the colour of wood floors through staining. However, this process can be complicated and may require professional expertise to achieve the desired results without damaging the wood.

The lifespan of wood flooring varies based on factors like wood type, maintenance, and usage. With proper care, hardwood floors can last for decades. Prolong their lifespan by placing rugs in high-traffic areas, using furniture pads, and maintaining a consistent cleaning routine.

Direct sunlight can cause fading and discoloration of wood flooring over time. Use window treatments like blinds or curtains to reduce exposure to UV rays and consider area rugs to provide additional protection in sun-exposed areas.

Yes, avoid using harsh cleaners, ammonia-based solutions, or abrasive tools that can damage the wood's finish. Stick to pH-neutral, manufacturer-approved cleaning products to maintain the beauty and longevity of your wood floors.

Place felt or rubber pads under furniture legs to create a protective barrier between the furniture and the floor. When moving heavy furniture, use sliders to reduce friction and prevent scratches. Regularly lift and place furniture rather than dragging it to prevent damage.

Signs include visible scratches, dullness, uneven colouring, or worn finish. If your floors no longer respond to cleaning and show significant wear, it might be time for sanding and refinishing.

Engineered wood has a thinner top layer, so excessive sanding can compromise its integrity. Consult a professional to determine if your engineered wood floors are suitable for refinishing, as they might have limited refinishing potential.

Sanding involves using progressively finer grits of sandpaper to remove the top layer of finish and imperfections. While DIY sanding is possible, it's recommended to hire a professional to ensure proper technique and equipment for a smooth finish.

It's best to sand only enough to remove the existing finish and surface imperfections. Over-sanding can damage the wood and affect its longevity. A professional can determine the appropriate sanding depth based on the condition of your floors.

Minor localised damage, like scratches or small dents, can often be repaired without refinishing the entire floor. However, deep scratches or extensive damage might require refinishing to ensure a consistent and uniform appearance.

The frequency varies based on usage and wear. Generally, solid hardwood floors may need sanding and refinishing every 7-10 years, while engineered wood may have a more limited number of refinishing cycles due to its thinner top layer.

Proper sanding techniques and using the right grit sequence are essential for a smooth finish. Hiring a professional ensures that the floors are sanded evenly and finished with precision for a polished appearance.

Drying time can range from 24 to 48 hours, depending on factors like humidity and ventilation. Curing time might take up to two weeks, during which it's important to avoid heavy furniture and high foot traffic to allow the finish to fully harden.

Use area rugs in high-traffic zones and protective pads under furniture to prevent scratches. Regularly clean your floors using manufacturer-approved methods and products. Minimise exposure to direct sunlight, and maintain consistent humidity levels to prevent excessive wood movement.

While wood flooring can be installed in most rooms, it's important to consider moisture levels. Avoid installing wood flooring in high-moisture areas like bathrooms and basements, as excess moisture can lead to damage.

A sturdy and flat subfloor is crucial for a successful installation. Plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) are commonly used as subfloors. Ensure the subfloor is dry, clean, and properly leveled before installation.

It's possible to install wood flooring over existing tile or laminate, but proper preparation is essential. The existing floor should be clean, level, and well-adhered. Consulting a professional is advisable to ensure a proper installation.

Nail-down involves securing planks to the subfloor with nails, glue-down uses adhesive to attach planks to the subfloor, and floating involves interlocking planks that are not attached to the subfloor. The choice depends on the wood type, subfloor, and personal preference.

The installation time varies based on factors like the size of the area, type of installation, and complexity. A professional installer can give you a more accurate estimate based on your specific project.

Acclimatisation involves allowing the wood flooring to adjust to the humidity and temperature of the installation environment. This prevents post-installation issues like warping or gaps by minimizing wood movement.

Yes, leaving expansion gaps around the perimeter of the room and near fixed objects like walls and columns is crucial. These gaps accommodate natural wood expansion and contraction due to changes in humidity.

Yes, wood flooring can be installed over radiant heating systems. However, it's important to follow manufacturer guidelines for temperature and installation to prevent damage to the wood.

Avoid excessive moisture for the first few days after installation. Wait before placing heavy furniture or rugs to allow the finish to cure. Follow manufacturer recommendations for cleaning and maintenance to ensure the longevity and beauty of your newly installed wood floors.