Flooring FAQs | Timberzone Wood Flooring London

Welcome to the Flooring FAQs for Timberzone Wood Flooring London. This page has been created to answer the most common questions we receive about wood flooring, installation, maintenance, finishes and suitability for London homes and commercial properties. Whether you are researching flooring options for the first time or preparing for an upcoming installation, this guide provides clear, expert-led advice.

If your question is not covered below, our flooring specialists will be happy to help with tailored guidance based on your property, subfloor, usage requirements and design preferences.

What types of wood flooring options are available in London?

The most popular wood flooring options in London include engineered wood flooring, solid wood flooring and a wide range of parquet patterns such as herringbone, chevron and Versailles panels. Engineered wood flooring is the most widely used option due to its stability, suitability for underfloor heating and consistent performance in the UK climate.

At Timberzone, we supply wide-plank engineered boards, classic strip oak, smoked finishes, rustic grades and bespoke colour-matched flooring. These options suit everything from modern apartments to period townhouses and commercial interiors throughout London and North London.

How can I choose the right wood flooring for my home or office?

Choosing the right wood flooring depends on several factors including foot traffic, interior style, subfloor construction, moisture levels, natural light and whether underfloor heating is present. Wide planks tend to enhance open-plan living spaces, while herringbone and chevron parquet patterns add architectural interest to hallways, reception rooms and commercial environments.

For higher traffic spaces, we typically recommend hardwax oil or commercial-grade lacquer finishes for improved durability and ease of maintenance. Timberzone offers showroom consultations and on-site surveys to help you select the most suitable flooring system based on real conditions rather than guesswork.

Can wood flooring be installed in areas with higher moisture levels?

Wood flooring is not generally recommended for wet rooms such as shower rooms. However, certain engineered wood floors can be installed in larger bathrooms or cloakrooms where ventilation is strong and moisture exposure is limited. Solid wood flooring is not suitable in these environments due to its natural expansion and contraction.

During a site visit, Timberzone will assess humidity levels, room usage and ventilation to determine whether engineered wood flooring is safe for that specific space, or whether alternative materials should be considered.

What is the best type of wooden flooring in London?

For most London homes and commercial settings, engineered oak flooring is considered the best all-round option. Its layered construction provides excellent dimensional stability while still offering the natural appearance and warmth of real timber.

Engineered boards are available in a wide range of grades, plank widths, surface textures and finishes, allowing full design flexibility without the movement risks associated with solid hardwood.

How long does wood flooring installation take in London?

Installation times depend on the size of the area, pattern selection, subfloor condition and preparation requirements. Straight plank installations covering 20–30 sqm may take one to two days to complete. More intricate patterns such as herringbone and chevron usually take longer due to detailed layout, glue curing times and higher precision requirements.

Additional time may be required if subfloor levelling, moisture barriers or plywood overlays are needed. Timberzone provides a detailed project timeline with every quotation so you know exactly what to expect.

Can engineered wood flooring be installed over existing floors?

Yes, engineered wood flooring can often be installed over existing surfaces such as tiles, vinyl or old timber boards, provided the base is dry, level and structurally sound. Floating installations are sometimes possible using acoustic underlay, while glue-down installations require full surface preparation.

If the existing substrate is uneven or unstable, removal and levelling will be required before installation. Timberzone inspects every subfloor during the site survey stage to determine the safest and most durable installation method.

Do you offer site visits and expert advice?

Yes. Timberzone provides professional showroom consultations and on-site surveys across London and North London. During your visit, we assess subfloors, room dimensions, moisture levels, underfloor heating compatibility and design preferences.

This ensures the flooring you choose is not only visually suitable but also technically correct for your environment. Our advice is always practical, transparent and based on long-term performance rather than short-term trends.

How should wood flooring be maintained?

Routine maintenance depends on the type of finish applied. Lacquered floors should be cleaned using non-abrasive wood floor cleaners and microfiber mops, while oiled floors may require periodic re-oiling to maintain protection.

For high-traffic areas, professional deep cleaning and refresh treatments can extend the life of the finish significantly. Timberzone also offers maintenance and restoration services for worn or damaged wood floors.

Still have questions? Contact Timberzone to speak with a flooring specialist, or visit our East Finchley showroom to view full-size displays and samples in person.