Hardwood flooring 

 Fitting Guidelines

We have compiled a description of the process we use in fitting hardwood flooring, outlining the different steps needed to provide a fully finished floor. The steps taken on a typical floor follow a logical process:

  • Fitting the new floor boards to the sub floor/existing floor  
  • Lightly sanding the boards with a special dust withholding machine to remove minor ridges and "nibs".  
  • Application of colour treatment if requested
  • Finish with Osmo Hardwax Polyx-Oil in two coats, or an alternative sealer.

Fitting - The way in which the new floor is fitted to the sub floor is dependent on the following conditions:

Flooring Type

ENGINEERED FLOOR BOARDS - We are able to "float" the boards on underlay, or bond to concrete/screed/timber floors or secret nail through the new boards onto a timber/ply sub floor.

SOLID WOOD FLOOR BOARDS - We are only able to bond to a screed/concrete sub floor or secret nail through the new boards onto a timber/ply sub floor. We do not generally "float" solid flooring as it is more prone to distortion over time leading to "cupping", a condition where the surface of the boards becomes concave.

Comparison of fitting methods

BONDING - a special flooring adhesive is used which retains a degree of flexibility. This allows for natural movement of the boards. It will achieve a more solid under foot sound when being walked on. It provides a uniform fit where adjacent rooms have different sub floors, such as a mix of timber and concrete. Bonding gives provides less chance of flexing or creaking.

FLOATING - In this method the tongues and grooves of each board are glued together and the floor becomes as a single sheet. The floor then "floats" on an underlay which has been laid previously. One of three different types of underlay are used depending on the condition of the sub floor and nature of the rooms to be fitted. If there is a mositure concern, an underlay which has a built in damp proof membrane would be used. Noise reducing underlay for first floor or above rooms will help to prevent sound transmission to the room below. Special low tog underlay is used where a "wet" underfloor heating is installed. Wood flooring is generally not recommended for use with electric underfloor heating systems. However, subject to certain temperature controls being in place and information from the heating manufacturer or installer this can sometimes be possible.  

SECRET NAILING - fitting the baords by nailing through the tongues and grooves of the boards to a timber sub floor only so they are not visible to the eye.

In all cases there needs to be a gap of 13-15mm between the edge of the boards and the wall of the room to allow for expansion. Ideally this gap would be covered by the skirting boards. However, if skirting boards are already fitted and it is not practical to remove and replace these, a moulding or trim of a similar material as the floor can be fitted to cover the gap. 

Finishing Methods

UNFINISHED - When we fit a unfinished board which has not had any treatment from a the manufacturer, we sand back the entire floor until finishing with a 100 grit paper. Then we are able to apply a wax based oil in two coats, two part lacquer or varnish dependent on results and use of the floor.

PRE-FINISHED BOARDS - Unlike the unfinished boards we would not sand these boards as they have been pre finished with a Oil or Lacquer. If it has an oiled finish we would apply one more coat so the floor has had two coats as  would unfinished boards. If the boards pre lacquered then it will not need any further treatment except for anti-scuff or scratch protective coating, especially in high traffic or commercial areas.

Colouring

Our fitting teams have all been trained in the use and application of Osmo colour systems. Osmo is an oil based colour that we buff into the floor to provide the effect of ageing or lightening a particular timber.We apply the colour after the sanding stage and before the finishing oil stage. We cannot colour prefinished boards.

Please fill in our enquiry form where our experience flooring team will advise on the correct fitting method and type of flooring best suited to your needs.