Blog>Planning Guides>How to plan for wood flooring
Last updated: 18 June 2024
How to plan for wood flooring
Wooden flooring is a design staple in a lot of homes. With lots of options to choose from, it can be overwhelming. We’re here to help you plan your project and to give you all the information that you need.
How to plan for wooden flooring
Step 1 - Do your research
Before deciding on a type of wooden flooring, you should research and look at examples online to see what best suits your style.
Top tip: Look for local wooden floor fitters and check out their previous work for inspiration.
Step 2 - Decide on the type of wooden floor that you would like
There are different types of wooden flooring and different formations to choose from. For example, herringbone or parquet.
It's worth deciding on this before contacting local flooring fitters so they know what they are quoting for. They may be able to offer you different options of wood based on the style of flooring you go for.
Justwood Flooring oak flooring
Step 3 - Consult the professionals
Once you have an idea of what type of wooden flooring you’d like, it’s time to contact wooden floor fitters near you.
We recommend getting at least three quotes to compare and decide which works best for you and your project.
Search for checked tradespeople working in your area
Step 4 - Decide on whether a subfloor is needed
When your wooden floor fitter comes round to give you a free quote, they will be able to discuss with you whether or not you will need a new subfloor fitted to make sure the wooden floor they lay on top of it sits right.
This may add an extra cost to your project but you'll need to discuss this with your fitter.
Step 5 - Get your wooden floor laid!
Once you’ve decided on the tradesperson or company you’ll hire, it’s time to schedule a time with them to have your dream wooden floor fitted.
Search for checked tradespeople working in your area
What are the different types of wooden flooring?
Wood flooring comes in different varieties to suit different needs and budgets.
Laminate
Laminate wood flooring is the most affordable option. It is easy to install and can last a long time.
Hardwood
Solid wood or hardwood flooring is made from a single piece of hardwood and is usually installed using a tongue-and-groove method. It can be trickier to install than laminate flooring, but it adds value to a property and is extremely durable.
Engineered wood
Engineered wood flooring consists of layers of wood glued together to create planks. It’s more affordable than solid wood flooring, more resistant to moisture, and just as durable.
How to prep for hardwood floors
The surface underneath your floor must be clean, level and dry. A subfloor is usually made out of plywood. Or hardwood can also be laid on top of professionally levelled concrete.
A solid subfloor is key for hardwood floor prep. It makes it much easier to install hardwood flooring on top of it and adds an extra level of insulation.
A professional will be able to advise on the best prep for your flooring.
Who can do hardwood floor subfloor prep for me?
Before you can start laying any materials, you need to make sure that the subfloor is smooth and in a suitable condition. If it's not, you’ll need to address that and potentially have new concrete laid and smoothed out.
The wood flooring specialist you have chosen will be able to install a subfloor for you.
How do I know if I need a subfloor?
Once your current floor has been removed and the state of the surface underneath has been revealed, your floor installer will be able to tell you whether it needs to be replaced.
How much does it cost to lay a wooden floor?
The overall cost of installing wood flooring will depend on the size of your space and the type of wood floor you decide upon.
Take a look at our table of average costs:
| Item | Unit | Range - low | Range - high | Average cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pine material | Material only | - | - | £30 |
| High end hardwood material | Material only | - | - | £80+ |
| Laminate flooring material | Per m² | £20 | £60 | £30 |
| Laminate - install only | Per m² | £15 | £40 | £30 |
| Natural wood - install only | Per m² | £30 | £40 | £35 |
| Herringbone pattern - install only | Per m² | £60 | £80 | £70 |
| Parquet flooring (average) | Per m² | £30 | £200 | - |
| Last updated: February 2025 Our costs are ballpark averages - get a local tradesperson to quote now | ||||
Hardwood floor maintenance
Hardwood floors are extremely durable and will no doubt stand the test of time. However, it’s important to clean and maintain them regularly. Here are some of our top tips:
Clean your hardwood floor daily with soapy water
Use hardwood floor cleaner once a month for a more thorough clean
Avoid using steam mops, as these can cause damage
Apply a fresh coat of sealant or stain every five years
Hardwood floors should be refinished every 10 years
Search for checked tradespeople working in your area
More Wood Flooring Installers Articles
See the tradespeople we've checked for your job