Floorworks: Help & FAQs

Looking for a quick answer? Have a look through our FAQ list or give us a quick call.

• General
• Installations
• Restorations
• Repairs
• Aftercare

• • Can I book floor sanding service while I am away on business or holiday?

    Yes, permanent personal presence is not required during the time of the floor sanding works. We offer a convenient key collection and return service for your peace of mind.

    However, we highly recommend that either you or a designated representative be available when decisions need to be made regarding the flooring service. This ensures everything aligns with your preferences and avoids any delays. This ensures everything runs smoothly and meets your exact preferences.

  • Do you provide assistance with moving furniture?

    Yes, our team can assist with moving larger pieces of furniture out of the work area. If the furniture cannot be fully removed, we can complete the work in stages.

    Please note that staging the work may extend the project by an additional day (or more) and a surcharge will apply due to the extra time required.

    We strive to make the process as seamless as possible while ensuring minimal disruption to your home.

  • Do you offer services which will be covered by my insurance?

    Yes. As a reputable and trusted wood floor sanding company, many of our projects are covered by insurance companies. We often make specific arrangements to ensure that from the very beginning of our projects there is clarity regarding who will be inspecting the floors once they have been sanded and sealed.

  • Is there a minimum charge for a small job or small area?

    Yes, as per our Terms & Conditions there is a minimum charge per booking, which varies on type of services. Please, see our Prices for Floor Sanding & Repairs for more information.

  • Do you a take deposit for your floor restoration services?

    Currently, we do not take deposits for our floor renovation services. Payment for some or all materials is required at the time of booking, for our floor installation service.
    

  • Do you provide free quotations?

    Yes, we offer a quick provisional quote based on the details provided by the client. This helps with budgeting. Alternatively, we can conduct an obligation-free site survey to take exact measurements and assess the specific needs of your wooden floors.

    After the site visit, we will provide a final itemized quote within 48 hours. You can request a free site visit either through the "Get a Quote" option on our website or by giving us a call.

  • How can I request a site survey for accurate quote?

    For the convenience of our clients we offer free site surveys 6 days a week. Following the site visit, we will send you a detailed quotation, usually within one day. In some cases, where additional time is needed to assess specific details, please allow 2-3 working days for the quote.

    At our site surveys we provide detailed information and make a note of any specific requirements, which you may have about your wooden floor restoration service.

    To book a free site visit use the on our website or for advice, please call or 02038838044.

  • Do you offer a Service Guarantee and what does it cover?

    We stand behind the quality of all our floor restoration services.

    Our Service Guarantee covers all floor restoration services provided by us. Some limitations and exclusions applu apply. These are outlined in our Terms & Conditions.

    More information on our Floorworks Service Guarantee is available in our Service Guarantee section and our Terms & Conditions.

  • How can I pay for my floor restoration service?

    On completion of your floor renovation service you will receive an invoice for the works. We accept payment by card, bank transfer or cash. Payment options and our details are available with our online sales invoice.

  • How long are your quotes valid for?

    To reflect the current market prices of materials, our quotations are valid for 2 months only. Should you wish to make a booking after more than 2 months from receiving our quote, please contact a member of our team to check whether our quote is still valid or not.

  • Do you have insurance for your floor restoration works?

    Yes. Your home and your floors are safe with us - we have a comprehensive Public Liability and Treatment Risk insurance with a limit of £5,000,000.

  • Is gap filling covered by your Service Guarantee?

    Gap filling with saw-dust and resin filler on floorboards is exempt from our Service Guarantee.

    While working on the surface of your floors during floorboards sanding / repairs we endeavour to make every effort to increase its solidness, before proceeding with the gap filling. It is in fact the solidness of the floor boards, as well as the condition of its support (joists) that will define the durability of the gap filling, not the quality of the product we use or our service.

  • What is engineered flooring product will last longest?

    This will be usually a plank with 20 mm thickness and 6 mm top layer - the alternetive of standard solid wood flooring product.

• • Do you lift & dispose old flooring?

    Yes, as part of our floor restoration service, we can lift and dispose of old flooring. This includes carpets, tiles, vinyl, laminate, or wooden floors. We handle the entire process for your convenience.

  • What is the lead time for your floor fitting services?

    Lead times can vary, but usually we can accommodate works within 2 weeks even in the summer when there is higher demand for the service. Please note, floor installation service require planning in line with the delivery of the flooring product and its acclimatisation - weather it is supplied by Floorworks, or anothe supplier.

  • How long will my solid wood parquet floor last?

    A well-maintained and professionally restored parquet floor can last for many decades, often exceeding 50 years, and even over a century in some historical properties. The longevity primarily depends on the quality of the original installation, the type of wood used (harder woods like oak tend to last longer), and crucially, the level of ongoing maintenance and care. Regular cleaning, prompt addressing of spills, and avoiding abrasive cleaners or excessive moisture are vital. Furthermore, the frequency of professional restoration, including re-sanding and re-finishing, significantly extends its lifespan.

  • How much does it cost to lay parquet flooring?

    The cost to lay parquet flooring in the UK varies significantly depending on the type of wood, quality, pattern complexity, and labour rates in your area.

    Overall, for a standard room (around 20 m²), the total cost including materials and labour could range from £1,000 for labour and £2,200 including supply of flooring. Additional costs might include subfloor preparation, underlay, skirting boards, and door trimming.

  • Can I have parquet flooring with underfloor heating?

    Yes, you can have parquet flooring with underfloor heating, but it's crucial to choose the right type of parquet and ensure correct installation. While solid wood parquet can be problematic due to its tendency to expand and contract significantly with temperature changes, engineered parquet flooring is specifically designed to be compatible with underfloor heating systems. Its multi-layered construction provides much greater stability, resisting warping and gapping caused by fluctuating temperatures.

    Laying parquet with underfloor heating requires glue-down installatio and key considerations include maintaining the correct surface temperature (typically not exceeding 27°C), ensuring the subfloor is properly prepared and dry.

  • Do you provide options for laying herringbone with a border?

    Yes, unfinished herringbone products can have single or double border from same wood, with or without brass insert between the pattern and the border.

    On prefinished herringbone products border is not recommended, as these products are usually grooved, which creates a risk for the maintenance and longevity of the floors. Having a brass or other metal insert however, can help this issue.

  • Can I have sound-insulation with parquet flooring?

    Yes. We offer various acoustic insulation options compatible with the glue-down requirements of parquet flooring like Regupol and other alternative glue-down rubber insulations available through Floorworks in thickness of 3 mm, 5 mm, 8 mm and 10 mm, which works for wooden and concrete subfloors.

  • Do you lay Karndean flooring?

    Yes. Floorworks provides installation service for most Karndean flooring product.

  • What preparation is required for having click LVT flooring over floorboards?

    The floorboards must be perfectly flat, solid and covered with a minimum of 6 mm flooring-grade plywood, securely screwed down with all joints filled and sanded smooth.

  • What preparation is required for having glue-down / dryback laid over concrete?

    Even if the concrete level is good, pefectly flat subfloor with smoothing compound application is required for a glue-down / dryback LVT products. A primer to promote bonding between the smoothing and subfloor may also be required and a coat of liquid DPM.

  • How much does it cost to supply & fit LVT flooring?

    A floor installation service may include various aspect of work - subfloor prep, laying the floor, doors trimming, installation of profiles, accessories and skirting boards. While the floor laying for LVT can vary between £20 - £35 per sqm for floating installation in London and the South-East of England, herringbone installation can reach £35 - £45 per sqm. In majority of cases subfloor preparation is required for this type of product, which can add another £20 per sqm (incl. materials). Check all our professional floor fitting prices.

  • Do I need tp supply underlay for my LVT flooring product?

    Click LVT flooring products, intended for floating installations (with underlay), should come integrated with the underlay - usually 1 mm padding. If this is not the case, check manufacturer recomendations.

  • What's the best underlay for laminate flooring?

    The selection of underlay for floating installation is based on the thickness of the flooring, the level & type of the subfloor. For laminates over flat timber or concrete underlay should be up to 3 mm thick, with built-in DPM membrane and probably the most popular underlay for floorboards will be the fibreboard, which comes in approx. 5 mm thickness.

  • Can I have wooden flooring with Undefloor Heating?

    Yes. For floors with underfloor heating click engineered plank can be installed as floating with suitable for UFH underlay, or glue-down installation of tongue-and-groove planks. Herringbone flooring must be glued-down.

  • Is engineered flooring real wood?

    Yes. The top surface, the part you see and walk on, is 100% real hardwood, such as Oak, Walnut, Beach or Ash. This gives it the same authentic look, texture, and beauty as a solid wood floor.

  • How is engineered flooring different from laminate?

    The key difference is the surface layer. Engineered flooring has a top layer of real hardwood, whereas laminate flooring has a high-resolution photographic image of wood fused to a core board. Engineered wood can be sanded and refinished; laminate cannot.

  • Is engineered flooring waterproof? Can it be used in bathrooms?

    Standard engineered flooring is water-resistant, not waterproof. While it handles ambient moisture in a kitchen well, it is generally not recommended for full bathrooms where standing water and high humidity are common. Some specialised "hydro" or water-resistant engineered wood products are available for this purpose.

  • Can engineered flooring be installed over underfloor heating (UFH)?

    Absolutely. Most engineered flooring is specifically designed for use with UFH systems (both electric and water-based). Its stable construction handles temperature changes well. It's crucial that professional installation guidelines are followed to ensure proper heat transfer and prevent damage.

  • Can engineered flooring be installed on stairs?

    Yes, it creates a beautiful, continuous look. This is a complex job that requires precision cutting and the use of specialised stair nosings to create a safe and durable edge for each step. Floorworks provides floor installation service for stairs and matching stairs nosings.

  • How long does a typical installation take?

    Standard-sized room (15−25 sq. metres), the installation itself can often be completed in one day. However, this doesn't include subfloor preparation (e.g., waiting for levelling compound to dry), which can add extra time. Hallways with multiple doors and kitchen areas can take longer time to complete.

  • Is engineered flooring suitable for kitchens?

    Yes, its stability makes it an excellent choice for kitchens. It's advisable to choose a durable, lacquered finish (instead of oiled / brushed & oiled) for easier cleaning and better protection against spills. Always wipe up any water or liquid spills promptly.

  • What is the main advantage of engineered flooring over solid wood?

    The primary advantage is its structural stability. The cross-layered core prevents the planks from expanding, contracting, or warping due to changes in temperature and humidity. This stability allows it to be installed without gluing or nailing-down, like the solid wood flooring and to be laid floating with underlay or insulation, or over underfloor heating.

  • Is underlay necessary for laminate flooring?

    Absolutely. Underlay is essential for several reasons: it provides thermal insulation, reduces noise when walked upon (acoustic insulation), smooths over minor subfloor imperfections, and supports the click-lock joints, preventing them from breaking under pressure.

  • Can laminate flooring be installed on stairs?

    Yes, but it's a more complex job. It requires cutting the planks to size for the tread and riser and using a specialised stair nosing profile to create a safe, durable, and neat-looking edge for each step. This is often best left to a professional laminate floor installers like Floorworks™.

  • Is laminate flooring waterproof? Can I use it in a bathroom or kitchen?

    Standard laminate flooring is not waterproof; it is water-resistant. The HDF core can swell and be permanently damaged if water seeps into the joints. While it can be used with care in kitchens (wiping spills immediately), it's generally not recommended for bathrooms.

  • How durable is laminate against scratches and pets?

    Laminate is highly durable. The top wear layer provides excellent protection against scratches from pet claws, furniture, and daily foot traffic. An AC4 or AC5 rated laminate is exceptionally tough and a great choice for busy households with pets and children.

  • Can laminate be installed over carpet tiles?

    No. Like any other thinner flooring products, laminates requires smooth and solid surface to be laid on.

  • What is the average cost for professional install of laminate flooring?

    Professional installation costs for laminates in the UK typically range from £15 to £25 per square metre. This price can vary based on your location (London and the South East are often higher), the complexity of the room layout, and the amount of subfloor preparation required. Check all our professional floor fitting prices.

  • How much does laminate flooring cost in the UK?

    As of mid-2025, the cost for the laminate flooring itself typically ranges from £10 to £35 per square metre (m2).

    • Budget options (£10-£18 per m2): Suitable for light-use areas like bedrooms.

    • Mid-range (£18-£30 per m2): Offer better durability (higher AC rating) and more realistic designs, suitable for living rooms and hallways.

    • Premium options (£30+ per m2): Feature advanced water resistance, deep embossing for texture, and the highest durability ratings.

  • What is the typical cost for professional parquet flooring fitting?

    Professional parquet flooring fitting costs in the UK typically range from £35 to £50 per square metre. This price can vary based on your location (London and the South East are often higher), does not include adhesive, subfloor prep, and is based on complexity of the room layout, and the amount of subfloor preparation required. Check all our professional flooring fitting prices.

  • What's the typical cost for laying engineered wood flooring?

    Professional installation of engineered wood flooring in the UK typically range from £24 to £35 per square metre. This price can vary based on your location (London and the South East are often higher), the complexity of the room layout, the amount of subfloor preparation required and does not include adhesive and underlays required for the install. Check our professional floor installation prices.

  • Can LVT be used with underfloor heating?

    Most LVT products are compatible with underfloor heating systems, but it's crucial to check the manufacturer's specific guidelines regarding maximum temperature limits (typically not exceeding 27-29°C) to prevent warping or damage.

  • What is the typical cost for professional LVT installation?

    Professional installation costs for LVT generally range from £20 to £35 per m² in the UK. This can vary based on the complexity of the job, location, and the installer's experience. Subfloor preparation (e.g., leveling compounds) will be an additional cost. Check all our complete range of professional floor laying prices.

• • What details are required for a Quick floor sanding quote?

    To provide a quick qoute over the phone or by email, we would need to know:

    • the type of flooring you have

    • how many square meters of flooring requires sanding and refinishing

    • if any floor repairs are requited - missing or damaged blocks / planks

    • if you would like to change the colour with floor staining service

    For written quotations, please provide your contact details and address of your property.

  • Do you lift & dispose old flooring?

    Yes, as part of our floor restoration service, we can lift and dispose of old flooring. This includes carpets, tiles, vinyl, laminate, or wooden floors. We handle the entire process for your convenience.

  • How long does it take before the floors can be used again after the sanding service?

    During the restoration service, the floors can handle light traffic without disrupting the process.

    During the sealing process, the floors can be walked on between coats. After the final coat is applied, lacquered floors can accommodate foot traffic in 2 hours, while hardwax-oil floors require 5-10 hours. Drying times can vary depending on air humidity and the season.

    Furniture should be moved back into place the following day.

  • What qualifications do your floor sanding specialists have?

    All our Floorworks™ technicians are carefully vetted to ensure they meet the highest standards of quality and professionalism.

    To join our network of flooring specialists, they must demonstrate extensive experience, expertise, and skill in floor restoration. This includes a deep understanding of the floor finishes we use, proficiency with our advanced sanding equipment, and knowledge of various timber species. We hold our team to strict standards to guarantee top-tier service and outstanding results every time.

  • How many coats of lacquer are included in your service?

    For domestic floor sanding services, we apply 1 coat of primer followed by 2 coats of lacquer. You can choose from the available sheen options, which are extra-matt, matt, satin, and gloss.

    For floor sanding in public spaces (offices, schools, church halls), we use 1 coat of primer and 3 coats of high quality commercial-grade lacquer. Sheen options available are extra-matt, matt, and satin.

    Extra coats are available upon request, but we do not recommend more than 5 coats, including primer.

  • Can you extend existing flooring over a fireplace hearth?

    Yes, if you are planning to remove a fireplace hearth and you have parquet flooring, floorboards or planked flooring we may be able to help. After the repairs, with matching the floor spare material, the floors will need to be sanded and refinished.

  • What is the lead time for your floor sanding services?

    Lead times can vary, but usually we accommodate works within 1 week even in the summer when there is higher demand for the service. However, we do occasionally receive cancellations, so availability can be more flexible than initially anticipated. If your floor restoration works are urgent, we recommend checking with a member of our team to explore the possibility of an earlier appointment.

  • Do you do floor repairs to herringbone parquet flooring?

    Yes, we can supply matching blocks for most solid and engineered herringbone flooring. Usually after herringbone floor repairs, the floors may need to be sanded, gap filled and re-sealed to achieve a uniform appearance.

  • How many coats of oil are included in your service?

    Our sanding and oiling service includes 2 coats of clear hardwax-oil or 1 coat of colour oil followed by 1 coat of clear oil.

    Depending on the timber species and its specific requirements, we can occasionally increase the number of coats to ensure optimal protection and finish.

  • Can I book floor sanding service on the weekend?

    Yes, our sanding and sealing service are available to book over the weekend. However, please note that this process is noisy, and noise restrictions often apply in flats and residential areas with blocks.

    If your property is a house, we highly encourage you to inform your neighbors about the upcoming work.

  • Can we have doorbars & scotia beading replaced with our floor restoration service?

    Yes, we offer and supply installation of matching the floor door bars and scotia beading.

  • How long will my wooden floor restoration service take?

    The duration of a wooden floor restoration service largely depends on the size and current condition of your floor, the type of wood and finish chosen, and the specific processes involved. For an area size of approx. 40 sqm, the process of sanding and applying a new finish can take anywhere from 2 to 4 days.

    This timeframe accounts for multiple stages including initial assessment, potential repairs (such as replacing damaged blocks or filling gaps), dust-free sanding down to bare wood, and the application of several coats of protective finish with a drying time of approx. 2 - 6 hours, depending on the type.

  • Can I walk on the wood floor, during my floors restoration?

    Generally, it is strongly advised to avoid walking on your wooden floor during the restoration process, especially after sanding and when the new finish is ready to applied. Immediately after sanding, the raw wood is exposed and highly susceptible to dents, scratches, and the absorption of dirt or oils from footsteps, which could compromise the final finish.

  • How are your floor restoration service prices calculated?

    Our wooden floor restoration service prices are primarily calculated based on several key factors. The most significant element is the type of wooden flooring and the total size in square meters of the area to be restored. We also consider the current condition of the floor, as heavily damaged floors requiring extensive repairs. The type of finish chosen (e.g., oil-based, water-based lacquer, hardwax oil) also influences the price, with commercial grade finishes often being more expensive and some are slower drying.

    Finally, any additional services like staining, custom colour matching, or intricate pattern work will be factored into the final price. We aim to provide a transparent, itemised quote after an on-site assessment to ensure you understand all components of the cost.

  • How long will my solid wood parquet floor last?

    A well-maintained and professionally restored parquet floor can last for many decades, often exceeding 50 years, and even over a century in some historical properties. The longevity primarily depends on the quality of the original installation, the type of wood used (harder woods like oak tend to last longer), and crucially, the level of ongoing maintenance and care. Regular cleaning, prompt addressing of spills, and avoiding abrasive cleaners or excessive moisture are vital. Furthermore, the frequency of professional restoration, including re-sanding and re-finishing, significantly extends its lifespan.

  • Can you restore parquet flooring without sanding?

    Yes, it is sometimes possible to "restore" parquet flooring without full sanding, although the extent of the restoration will be limited. This non-sanding approach is typically suitable for floors with minimal surface wear, light scratches, or dullness, where the existing finish is still largely intact. Methods include buffing (screening) to lightly abrade the surface, and then applying a fresh coat of finish (re-coating or re-lacquering).

  • Can engineered parquet flooring be refinished?

    Yes, engineered parquet flooring can often be refinished, but its refinishing potential depends critically on the thickness of its top hardwood veneer layer (wear layer). Unlike solid parquet, which can be sanded many times, engineered parquet has a finite amount of sandable wood. If the veneer is thick enough (typically 3mm or more), it can usually be sanded and refinished at least once, and sometimes two or three times over its lifetime. A professional assessment is always recommended to determine if your specific engineered parquet floor has enough wear layer remaining for a successful restoration

  • How long does stripping & resealing stairs take?

    Stripping and resealing stairs is a meticulous process that typically takes between 2 to 4 days for an average staircase (around 12-15 steps). The duration depends heavily on the condition of the existing finish, the type of previous coating (which affects how easily it strips), and the complexity of the staircase design (e.g., spindles, intricate newel posts).

  • How long does sanding & painting stairs take?

    Sanding and painting stairs generally takes between 3 to 5 days for an average staircase. This timeframe is influenced by the number of steps, the condition of the existing surface, and the desired finish. The process begins with thorough sanding to remove old paint or varnish and create a smooth, clean surface for adhesion. This can be time-consuming due to the confined and intricate nature of stairs. Multiple coats of primer and paint are applied and the drying time can be between 2 to 5 hours per coat.

  • How much does it cost to restore my stairs?

    The cost to restore your stairs can vary significantly based on several factors, typically ranging from £800 to £1,200 or more for an average staircase. The main determinants of price include the condition of the stairs, the chosen finish (lacquer, oil or paint), and the complexity of the staircase design. Materials for high-quality finishes also contribute to the cost. For stairs, it's always best to obtain a detailed quote after a site visit, to get an accurate cost tailored to your specific staircase.

  • How much does it cost to restore original floorboards?

    The cost to restore original floorboards starts with from £27 per square meter for sanding and a standard finish (like varnish or oil). This price can increase significantly depending on the floor's condition; for instance, extensive gap filling might add an extra £10 per square meter, while staining could be £10 per square meter. Factors like the amount of repair work needed for damaged or missing boards, the type of finish selected (some premium oils or lacquers are more expensive), and the complexity of removing old adhesives or multiple layers of paint will influence the final quotation.

  • How much does it cost to restore parquet flooring?

    Restoring parquet flooring often involves a more intricate process than standard floorboards, which can sometimes slightly impact the cost. While general wood floor restoration costs can start from £25 per square meter for sanding and finishing, parquet may incur additional charges due to the need for more meticulous repairs of individual blocks. Final cost will be affected from additional services like gap filling and staining.

  • What is the best oil to put on wood floors?

    The "best" oil for wood floors largely depends on your desired aesthetic, durability needs, and maintenance preferences. Popular and highly regarded oils in the UK market include hardwax oils from brands like Osmo, Bona, Woca and Fiddes. These oils are typically blends of natural oils and waxes that penetrate the wood to provide deep nourishment and a durable, water-repellent surface, while allowing the wood to breathe.

  • How long does it take for an oiled floor to dry?

    For an oiled wood floor, the initial drying time for light foot traffic typically ranges from 4 to 12 hours after the final coat, depending on the specific oil product used and environmental conditions like humidity and temperature in your home or premises. However, it's crucial to understand that "dry to touch" does not mean fully cured. For the oil to reach its maximum hardness and durability, allowing for heavy furniture placement and normal traffic, a full curing period of 5 to 14 days, and sometimes up to 30 days, is recommended. Adequate ventilation during this period is essential to facilitate proper curing.

  • How long does it take for lacquered floors to dry?

    Lacquered (or varnished) floors generally dry quicker to the touch than oiled floors. You can typically walk on lacquered floors with light foot traffic (e.g., in socks) within 2 to 4 hours after the final coat. However, similar to oils, the lacquer needs a longer time to fully cure and achieve its maximum hardness and resistance to scratches and dents.

  • Can you oil a wooden floor without sanding?

    Yes, it is possible to re-oil a wooden floor without full sanding if the existing oil finish is still largely intact and the wood itself is not deeply scratched, stained, or damaged. This process is often referred to as "refreshing" or "maintenance oiling." It involves thoroughly cleaning the floor with a specialised wood floor cleaner, and then applying a fresh, thin coat of oil. This method rejuvenates the existing finish, restores its lustre, and replenishes the oil within the wood, extending its life without the need for abrasive sanding. However, if the floor has significant wear, deep scratches, or areas where the wood is exposed, sanding will be necessary to achieve an even and durable restoration.

  • How often is re-oiling needed for my wood floor?

    The frequency of re-oiling for your wood floor depends significantly on the level of foot traffic and the specific type of oil finish applied. In high-traffic areas like hallways, kitchens, or living rooms, re-oiling might be needed every 6 to 18 months. For areas with moderate traffic, every 1-3 years might suffice, while in low-traffic zones such as bedrooms, a re-oil might only be necessary every 3-5 years or even longer.

  • What are the pros and cons of oil-finished hardwood floors?

    Oil-finished hardwood floors offer a distinct set of pros and cons. Pros include a beautiful, natural, matte or satin aesthetic that deeply enhances the wood's grain and character. They are often easier to repair in specific areas, as individual scratches or worn spots can be spot-repaired without needing to re-sand the entire floor. Oil penetrates the wood, providing deep protection and allowing the wood to breathe. Cons typically involve more frequent maintenance, as they require regular re-oiling, especially in high-traffic areas, compared to lacquered finishes.

  • Is the floor restoration process noisy?

    Yes, the floor restoration process, particularly the sanding phase, is inherently noisy. Professional floor sanding machines, especially drum sanders used for the initial heavy-duty work, operate at high decibel levels, often comparable to heavy traffic or industrial machinery (around 85-90 dB). While modern dust-free sanding systems significantly reduce airborne dust, they do not eliminate noise. The noise intensity can vary throughout the process, being loudest during initial coarse sanding and becoming somewhat quieter with finer grits. It's advisable to make arrangements for pets and sensitive individuals, and potentially notify neighbours.

  • Can you match the existing color of my parquet floor, or will it be different?

    When restoring your parquet floor, our aim is to either match the existing colour or achieve your desired new colour. If you wish to retain the original look, we can often achieve a very close match by carefully selecting the finish (oil or lacquer) that brings out the wood's natural tone, or by using a light stain if the original floor had one. However, it's important to note that natural wood undergoes "patina" and UV exposure over time, so a perfectly identical match to an aged, un-sanded area (like under a rug) might be challenging. If you want a significant colour change, we can achieve this through staining the sanded wood before applying the final clear finish, allowing you to choose from a wide range of shades. We always recommend testing samples on your floor to ensure satisfaction with the colour.

  • How often should I have my parquet floors restored?

    The frequency of professional restoration for your parquet floors largely depends on the level of wear and tear they experience. For residential properties with moderate foot traffic, a full re-sanding and re-finishing might be needed every 7 to 15 years. In high-traffic areas or commercial spaces, this could be more frequent, perhaps every 3-7 years. Conversely, in very low-traffic areas like bedrooms, a full restoration might only be necessary every 15-20 years or even longer.

  • Can water damaged solid wood flooring be restored?

    Similar to parquet, the possibility of restoring water-damaged solid wood flooring hinges on the severity of the damage. Minor surface water damage, which might cause some light staining or slight raising of the grain, can often be successfully addressed through sanding and refinishing.

  • Can water damaged parquet flooring be restored?

    The restorability of water-damaged parquet flooring depends on the extent and duration of the water exposure. Minor water damage, such as light surface spills that are quickly cleaned, often results in only surface discolouration or slight swelling, which can typically be rectified through professional sanding and refinishing.

  • Are there eco-friendly or low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) finish options available?

    Yes, absolutely. There's a growing demand for environmentally conscious building practices, and the flooring industry has responded with numerous eco-friendly and low-VOC finish options, which are offered by Floorworks™. These typically include water-based lacquers and natural oils/hardwax oils.

  • How do you handle gaps between parquet blocks?

    Gaps between parquet blocks are a common issue that we address during restoration. The most effective and aesthetically pleasing method involves gap filling using a resin filler mixed with fine dust collected directly from your parquet floor during the initial sanding process. This bespoke mixture ensures the filler perfectly matches the colour and texture of your wood, creating a seamless and virtually invisible repair. For larger gaps or specific aesthetic preferences, sometimes individual slivers of wood can be inserted and glued, though the dust-and-resin method is generally preferred for its precision and speed. This technique not only improves the floor's appearance but also helps to prevent dirt and debris from accumulating in the gaps.

  • Can I change the color of my parquet flooring with restoration service?

    Yes, you can absolutely change the colour of your parquet flooring during the restoration service. Once the existing finish is sanded away, leaving the raw wood exposed, it becomes a blank canvas. This is the ideal stage to apply a wood stain before the final clear protective finish (oil or lacquer). At Floorworks™ we offer a wide range of stain colours, from lighter washes to darker, richer tones, allowing you to completely transform the aesthetic of your parquet to suit your interior design vision.

  • Will the restoration process affect my skirting boards or walls?

    The floor restoration works go up to the very edge of your wooden floors with high-speed rotary power tools to achieve uniform finish throughout. Touch ups or even repainting may be required after the floor works to skirting boards or beading. This may as well become necessary after removal of the masking tape, which we use to protect your skirting boards. Although we use low-tack masking tape, sometimes the paint below may be too fragile or recently applied and can chip off during the removal.

• • What details are required for a Quick floor sanding quote?

    To provide a quick qoute over the phone or by email, we would need to know:

    • the type of flooring you have

    • how many square meters of flooring requires sanding and refinishing

    • if any floor repairs are requited - missing or damaged blocks / planks

    • if you would like to change the colour with floor staining service

    For written quotations, please provide your contact details and address of your property.

  • Do you replace original floorboards with seasoned / reclaimed material?

    Yes, as part of our floorboards repairs service we only work with seasoned pine material, which will reflect the age and colour of your existing boards as closely as possible. This ensures a seamless integration with your current flooring.

    If the natural color of the new boards does not perfectly align with the existing ones, we can perform local staining to achieve a better match.

  • Do you repair mosaic fingers parquet flooring?

    Yes, mosaic fingers are quite common assets and very often they go through some repairs. Gap filling is always recommend for this type of floor after the repairs.

  • Can you extend existing flooring over a fireplace hearth?

    Yes, if you are planning to remove a fireplace hearth and you have parquet flooring, floorboards or planked flooring we may be able to help. After the repairs, with matching the floor spare material, the floors will need to be sanded and refinished.

  • Can you supply matching flooring for floor repairs?

    In most cases when floor repairs are required we can supply parquet flooring blocks, solid wood planks, or engineered wood planks that are the same age and style to your existing floor. In cases where exact matches are not available, we may produce custom planks or blocks from the same timber material to match the existing flooring.

    If we cannot find the same product or material, we can supply the closest timber and do a close colour match with floor staining.

  • Do you do floor repairs to herringbone parquet flooring?

    Yes, we can supply matching blocks for most solid and engineered herringbone flooring. Usually after herringbone floor repairs, the floors may need to be sanded, gap filled and re-sealed to achieve a uniform appearance.

• • Do you offer re-oiling of wooden floors?

    Yes. We provide re-oiling and re-waxing services for wooden floors with an original oil-based finish.

    To determine whether re-oiling service is suitable or if floor sanding and refinishing will be necessary, we can arrange a site visit for a thorough assessment.

    For a more accurate evaluation, please be prepared to provide some photos of the current condition of your floors.

    or floor sanding and refinishing will be required instead. Please, be prepared with some photos as well, showing the condition of the floors.

  • What hardwax-oil products do you use for re-oiling?

    For our waxing and re-oiling services, we use high-quality hardwax-oil and maintenance oil products from reputable brands: Osmo, Bona, Woca and Loba. All available in matt and satin sheens.

  • What is the best oil to put on wood floors?

    The "best" oil for wood floors largely depends on your desired aesthetic, durability needs, and maintenance preferences. Popular and highly regarded oils in the UK market include hardwax oils from brands like Osmo, Bona, Woca and Fiddes. These oils are typically blends of natural oils and waxes that penetrate the wood to provide deep nourishment and a durable, water-repellent surface, while allowing the wood to breathe.

  • How long does it take for an oiled floor to dry?

    For an oiled wood floor, the initial drying time for light foot traffic typically ranges from 4 to 12 hours after the final coat, depending on the specific oil product used and environmental conditions like humidity and temperature in your home or premises. However, it's crucial to understand that "dry to touch" does not mean fully cured. For the oil to reach its maximum hardness and durability, allowing for heavy furniture placement and normal traffic, a full curing period of 5 to 14 days, and sometimes up to 30 days, is recommended. Adequate ventilation during this period is essential to facilitate proper curing.

  • How often is re-oiling needed for my wood floor?

    The frequency of re-oiling for your wood floor depends significantly on the level of foot traffic and the specific type of oil finish applied. In high-traffic areas like hallways, kitchens, or living rooms, re-oiling might be needed every 6 to 18 months. For areas with moderate traffic, every 1-3 years might suffice, while in low-traffic zones such as bedrooms, a re-oil might only be necessary every 3-5 years or even longer.