We completed a full floor sanding and lacquer finish on a Victorian townhouse in Fulham, restoring original pine boards that had been hidden under carpet for several decades. The client wanted to reveal the character of the original flooring while creating a durable, low-maintenance surface suitable for modern living. The work involved careful sanding across three floors, with particular attention to preserving the period character while achieving a contemporary finish.

Work carried out

• Surface preparation and assessment of existing boards
• Multi-stage sanding process using industrial equipment
• Edge sanding to corners and alcoves
• Dust extraction throughout the process
• Gap filling and minor repairs to damaged boards
• Application of water-based lacquer finish in two coats
• Final inspection and quality checks

About the project

This Victorian property presented the common challenge of uneven wear across the three floors. The ground floor had sustained minor damage from furniture placement and foot traffic, while the first and second floors showed variation in the original board thickness and colour variation typical of pine from that era. We spent time in the initial assessment determining the best approach to achieve consistency without over-sanding the timber. The client's main concern was managing dust during the process, as they needed to remain in the property during the work. We implemented a comprehensive dust containment strategy using industrial extraction equipment and sealed doorways between rooms to minimise spread.

Our approach involved starting with coarser abrasive grades to remove the old finish and surface contamination, then progressively refining with finer grades to achieve a smooth finish suitable for sealing. The gaps between boards were filled using a natural pine filler that matched the surrounding wood, maintaining the authentic character. We applied two coats of water-based lacquer rather than oil, which the client preferred for its durability and ease of future maintenance. The entire project took nine working days, with the property usable within 48 hours of final coat application.

About our Fulham Floorboard Sanding And Lacquer Finish, SW6 service

Fulham has a diverse mix of properties spanning from Victorian and Edwardian terraced houses to 1930s mansions and modern developments. We work regularly across the area, and the majority of projects involve either original Victorian pine boards or the hardwood floors found in Edwardian properties. Many residents are drawn to the area precisely because of the period character, and restoring original flooring is a popular part of renovation projects. The SW6 postcode also includes newer apartment buildings where we handle modern engineered boards and assist with specification of appropriate finishes for contemporary spaces.

The solid pine and oak boards found in period properties are generally solid and respond well to sanding, though they do require experience to handle properly. We've encountered everything from boards with protruding nails to sections where water damage has occurred, and each situation requires problem-solving on the spot. In newer builds, the flooring is typically engineered boards or solid hardwoods with factory finishes, which demand a different approach to avoid damage. Understanding the differences between property types helps us recommend the right solution and give accurate timescales for each job.

Frequently asked questions

How much does floorboard sanding cost?

Sanding costs typically range from £25 to £45 per square metre depending on the condition of the floor and the finish required. Floors in poor condition with heavy staining or damage, existing sealant that's difficult to remove, or gaps requiring filling tend toward the higher end. We provide a detailed quote after visiting the property and assessing the specific requirements. The final cost also depends on whether you want edge work completed in smaller rooms and the number of coats of lacquer or oil you choose.

How long does the sanding process take?

A typical domestic project takes between five and ten working days depending on total floor area and condition. We work one floor at a time where possible, which allows you to use other areas of your home. Dust extraction equipment runs throughout, and we clean at the end of each day. After the final coat of lacquer is applied, you should wait 48 hours before light use and at least one week before moving furniture back.

Is floorboard sanding a dusty process?

Sanding does generate substantial dust, but modern industrial extraction equipment captures the majority during the work itself. We use sealed equipment connected to HEPA filters that remove fine particles from the air. Sealing doorways and keeping windows closed during sanding helps contain dust to the work area. Some fine dust will settle despite precautions, so we recommend removing soft furnishings from adjacent rooms beforehand.