The Science of Acclimatisation & EMC

The most common cause of solid wood failure is rushing the installation. We follow strict protocols for Equilibrium Moisture Content (EMC).

• Site Conditioning: Solid wood must reach a balance with the Relative Humidity (RH) of your home. We require a minimum of 7–10 days for the timber to acclimatise on-site.
• Technical Testing: Before starting, we use professional Protimeter (moisture meters) to verify that the difference between the subfloor and the wood flooring is within the safe 2-4% margin.
• Climate Control: We ensure the property is weathered-in and heating systems have been operational to create a stable "living" environment for the wood.

Subfloor Integrity & "Soundness"

A solid wood floor is only as stable as what lies beneath it. We perform a rigorous "soundness" check on every substrate.

• Concrete & Screed: We test for moisture. If the subfloor exceeds 75% RH, we apply a Liquid Epoxy Damp Proof Membrane (DPM) to create a permanent barrier against capillary rise.
• Timber Subfloors: If we are installing over existing joists or floorboards, we check for structural deflection. Often, we install a high-load plywood overlay (SP101 grade) to provide a flat, rigid anchor point.
• Bitumen Remediation: In period London properties, we are experts at handling old bitumen adhesives. We ensure the surface is chemically prepared or mechanically cleaned so that modern, high-strength adhesives can achieve a 100% surface bond.

Professional Fixing Methods

For solid wood, we never use "floating" methods. We rely on mechanical or chemical bonds:

• Full Surface Bond (Glue-Down): Using permanently elastic Silane-terminated polymer (STP) adhesives. These are High-Shear strength yet flexible, allowing the wood to expand and contract naturally without stressing the bond or causing the planks to "pop."
• Secret Nailing (Mechanical Fix): For installations over plywood or joists, we use pneumatic cleat nailers. We drive heavy-duty cleats at a 45-degree angle through the tongue, ensuring an invisible, rock-solid connection that prevents the boards from shifting or creaking over time.

Professional Layouts & Geometric Patterns

Herringbone (The London Classic)

These patterns are the hallmark of luxury. Solid wood blocks are meticulously laid to create a sense of movement and depth.

• Residential: Ideally suited for Victorian and Edwardian conversions, particularly in entrance halls and double-reception rooms.
• Commercial: Popular in high-end galleries, restaurants, and executive boardrooms where the floor needs to make a statement of quality.

Straight Planks (Random or Fixed Lengths)

The most versatile and popular choice for London homes.

• Residential: Perfect for creating a sense of flow in hallways and open-plan living areas. Wide planks (150mm+) offer a rustic, grand feel, while narrow planks provide a more formal, traditional look.
• Commercial: Highly efficient for large office spaces or retail boutiques where a clean, seamless appearance is required.

Mosaic & Finger Joint (Industrial & Vintage)

Small timber blocks arranged in squares or "finger" patterns.

• Residential: Making a massive comeback in Mid-Century Modern interiors. Due to the small size of the blocks, this is one of the most stable forms of solid wood flooring.
• Commercial: Historically used in school halls, dance studios, and high-traffic public buildings. Its multi-directional grain makes it incredibly durable and resistant to heavy footfall.

Managing Dimensional Movement

Solid wood moves across its width. We calculate the required Expansion Gaps based on the wood species and the room's total width.

• Perimeter Gaps: We leave a precise gap (usually 7mm-12mm) around the entire perimeter.
• Structural Profiles: Where the floor meets other surfaces, we use solid timber transitions, thresholds, and radii that allow for movement without compromising the aesthetics.
• The "No-Go" for UFH: As experts, we generally advise against using solid wood for Underfloor Heating (UFH) due to the risk of excessive shrinkage and cupping, and instead recommend Engineered Wood for those specific applications.

Site-Finished vs. Pre-Finished

We offer both options, but our speciality lies in Site-Finished Solid Wood:

• Bespoke Finish: We install unfinished planks, then perform a full sand and seal on-site. This eliminates "micro-bevelled" edges, creating a perfectly flat, monolithic surface that feels and looks far more premium than factory-made boards.