FAQs
Your Questions About Wood Flooring – Answered by the Experts
At Steve’s Wood Floor Fitting, we understand that having new flooring installed is a big decision, and it often comes with a lot of questions. Whether you're unsure about the best type of wood for your home, wondering how long the installation process takes, or simply want to know how to care for your floor once it’s fitted, we’re here to help. That’s why we’ve put together this FAQ page - to answer the most common questions we receive from homeowners across Bedfordshire and beyond.
With years of hands-on experience and a genuine passion for what we do, we’re always happy to share our knowledge and advice. Every answer here is based on real conversations with customers just like you, and we’ve kept things clear, honest, and helpful. If you don’t see your question below, feel free to get in touch - no query is too big or small. We believe an informed customer is a confident one, and we’re proud to offer a service built on trust, transparency, and exceptional craftsmanship.
Read on to learn more about our wood floor fitting process, what to expect during installation, and how to make the most of your beautiful new flooring.
We fit a wide range of wood flooring, including solid hardwood, engineered wood, and laminate. Solid wood offers a timeless, natural look and long-term durability. Engineered wood is ideal for areas where temperature or humidity may vary, as it’s more stable. Laminate flooring provides an affordable, stylish alternative that’s easy to maintain. If you’re unsure what would work best in your home, we’re happy to offer advice based on your space, lifestyle, and budget. Every floor we fit is done with precision and care, ensuring a beautiful, lasting finish.
The installation time depends on the size of the area, the type of flooring, and any prep work required. A standard room can take 1–2 days to complete. Engineered and laminate flooring tends to be quicker to install than solid wood, especially with click-lock systems. If the subfloor needs work, like levelling or removing old flooring, this can add extra time. We’ll always give you an accurate timescale before starting, so you know exactly what to expect. Our goal is to complete the job efficiently without compromising on quality.
We’re happy to work either way. If you’ve already purchased your flooring, we can provide expert fitting to ensure it looks its best. Alternatively, we can recommend trusted suppliers and help you choose the right product for your needs. Thanks to our industry knowledge, we know what brands and types of flooring perform well over time. We can even arrange for the materials to be delivered ahead of your fitting date, saving you time and hassle. Just let us know what works best for you.
Ideally, the room should be as clear as possible before we begin. This helps us work efficiently and reduces the risk of damage to your belongings. However, if you need help moving heavy items like sofas or dining tables, just let us know in advance - we’re happy to assist where we can. We’ll always take care to protect surrounding areas and furniture that can’t be moved, using dust sheets and careful working practices. Our priority is keeping disruption to a minimum while ensuring a top-quality finish.
Yes, many engineered wood floors are compatible with underfloor heating systems. However, it’s important to choose a floor that’s designed for that purpose and to follow specific installation guidelines to avoid damaging the wood. Solid wood is less suitable as it’s more prone to expanding and contracting with temperature changes. We’ll assess your setup and recommend the right type of flooring for both aesthetics and performance. We also ensure that heat levels are gradually increased after fitting to prevent warping or splitting.
Absolutely. Wood is a natural material that expands and contracts with changes in temperature and humidity. To prevent movement or damage after installation, we recommend allowing the flooring to acclimate in the room where it will be installed for at least 48–72 hours. This helps the boards adjust to your home’s conditions. We’ll guide you on the exact requirements for your chosen flooring type, and we’ll always check that the environment is suitable before starting work. It’s a small step that makes a big difference to the final result.
Solid wood flooring is made from a single piece of timber and offers a classic, luxurious feel. It can be sanded and refinished multiple times, making it a long-lasting choice. Engineered wood is made from multiple layers, with a real wood veneer on top. It’s more stable, especially in areas prone to moisture or temperature fluctuations, like kitchens or conservatories. Both options look fantastic, but the right choice depends on your property and lifestyle. We’re always happy to talk you through the pros and cons of each.
Keeping your wood floor in great condition is simple with a few basic steps. Regularly sweep or vacuum using a soft brush attachment to remove dust and grit that could cause scratches. Avoid using excessive water when cleaning - opt for a damp (not wet) mop with a wood-friendly cleaner. Place mats at entrances to catch dirt and use felt pads under furniture legs. We’ll provide full aftercare advice tailored to your specific floor type, so you can enjoy a stunning finish for years to come.
Yes, we take pride in the quality of our work and stand behind every floor we install. All our installations come with a workmanship guarantee for your peace of mind. Should any issues arise related to the fitting, we’ll return to resolve them promptly and professionally. We also make sure to follow best practices recommended by flooring manufacturers, which helps preserve any product warranties. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we’re committed to delivering results you can trust.
Yes, but it’s important to choose the right type of flooring. Bathrooms and kitchens can be humid environments, so we generally recommend engineered wood or waterproof laminate rather than solid wood, which can warp over time. We’ll also take extra care with sealing and installation techniques to protect the floor from moisture. With the right product and proper fitting, wood flooring can add warmth and style to these spaces while remaining practical and durable.
Yes, we do. A smooth, level subfloor is essential for a successful flooring installation. Before fitting, we’ll assess your existing surface and advise if any preparation is needed, such as levelling compound, damp-proof membranes, or plywood boarding. We can handle all aspects of subfloor preparation, ensuring the best possible foundation for your new flooring. Taking the time to get this step right prevents future issues like uneven wear or creaking boards.
We’re based in Bedfordshire and cover the surrounding areas, including Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire, and North London. If you’re unsure whether we work in your area, just get in touch and we’ll be happy to let you know. We’ve completed flooring projects across a wide range of properties, from residential homes to commercial spaces, and we’re proud of the reputation we’ve built for quality craftsmanship and reliable service.
Costs can vary depending on the type of flooring, room size, and any prep work required. We offer competitive, transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Once we’ve assessed your space, we’ll provide a detailed quote so you know exactly what’s included. We believe in fair pricing for high-quality workmanship, and we’re always happy to talk you through the cost breakdown. Whether it’s a single room or a full-house installation, we’ll work to your budget without compromising on finish.
Yes, we offer removal and disposal of old flooring as part of our service. Whether you’re replacing carpet, vinyl, or older wooden floors, we’ll take care of the removal in a safe, tidy manner. We’ll also make sure the subfloor is inspected and prepped for the new installation. Disposing of waste responsibly is important to us, and we aim to recycle materials wherever possible. Let us know in advance, and we’ll include this in your quote.
Absolutely. Choosing the right flooring can feel overwhelming with so many options available. We’re happy to offer expert, no-obligation advice based on your lifestyle, home layout, and design preferences. Whether you’re after a traditional oak floor, a modern engineered board, or a cost-effective laminate, we’ll help you make an informed choice. We can also recommend finishes, plank widths, and installation styles that suit your space. Our goal is to make sure you’re thrilled with the result.