This Kensington Victorian property featured original walnut parquet flooring that had become heavily worn and marked over decades of use. The owners wanted to restore the floor to its former condition while preserving the character of the period property. We carried out a complete sanding and finishing project across 85 square metres of living space.
Work carried out
- Full surface sanding of walnut parquet flooring
- Deep cleaning and removal of old finish
- Hand scraping of stubborn marks and adhesive residue
- Gap filling and minor repairs to damaged blocks
- Staining to match original colour and patina
- Multiple coats of hard-wearing polyurethane finish
- Dust containment throughout the property
- Final buffing and polishing
About the project
The property dated from 1887 and the parquet had likely been in place since original installation. Generations of foot traffic, furniture movement, and inadequate cleaning had left the floor looking tired and dull. The existing finish had worn through in several areas, particularly in the hallway and near the bay window where sunlight had bleached the wood. The owners had contemplated replacement but recognised that authentic period flooring adds genuine value and character to a Victorian home.
Our approach involved careful assessment of the wood condition before sanding commenced. The walnut blocks were in sound structural condition, which meant full restoration was viable. We used a multi-stage sanding process, starting with coarse grit to remove the old finish, then progressing through medium and fine grits to achieve a smooth, uniform surface. The main challenge was managing dust in a three-storey townhouse with interconnected rooms. We installed containment barriers and used HEPA-filtered dust extraction throughout, which meant the owners could remain in the property with minimal disruption. The final stain was applied carefully to enhance the natural walnut grain without obscuring its original character, and we used a tough polyurethane seal suitable for high-traffic periods.
About our Kensington service
Kensington properties present particular requirements for floor restoration work. The area is dominated by Victorian and Edwardian townhouses, many of which retain original wooden flooring beneath carpets or damaged finishes. These period properties often feature parquet, strip flooring, or block patterns in quality hardwoods like walnut, oak, and mahogany. Properties tend to be listed or require planning consent, which means we work carefully to preserve original finishes and materials wherever possible. We're experienced in navigating the practical challenges of working in these densely-populated Georgian and Victorian streets, where access is tight and neighbouring properties are closely spaced.
Alongside the traditional properties, Kensington has seen renovation and new-build development, particularly in converted warehouse and mansion block apartments. We regularly work on both restoration projects and finishing installations in these contemporary spaces. The quality and type of timber varies considerably across the area, from original period blocks to modern engineered hardwoods. Whatever the property type or floor condition, our approach is consistent: thorough assessment, careful preparation, and attention to detail in both the technical aspects and site management.
Frequently asked questions
How much does parquet sanding cost?
Sanding costs typically range from £25 to £45 per square metre, depending on the condition of the floor and the complexity of the work. Heavily damaged floors requiring extensive preparation or repair cost more than floors that are generally sound but simply worn. We provide a detailed quote following site inspection, as variables such as floor type, existing finish, and any repairs needed affect the final price.
How long does the sanding process take?
A 85 square metre project like this one usually takes 4 to 6 working days from start to finish. This includes sanding, staining, sealing, and the curing time between coats. Access, dust containment setup, and any preparatory repairs can extend the timeline. We'll confirm exact duration during the initial survey, as every floor is different.
Is your sanding process dust free?
We use HEPA-filtered dust extraction connected to our sanding equipment, which captures the vast majority of dust at source. We also contain the workspace with temporary barriers and maintain negative air pressure where necessary. While dust-free sanding isn't completely possible, our method significantly reduces the amount of fine particles released into the home compared to traditional sanding methods.
