Installing, cleaning, and maintaining flooring is one of those home improvement areas that seems simple—until you’re in the middle of it. Whether it’s a first-time DIY project or a long-overdue home upgrade, questions come up fast. And when they do, Google is the go-to.
At UK Flooring Depot, we’ve taken the top ten flooring questions searched by thousands of UK homeowners every month and provided clear, practical answers—backed by first-hand experience, professional tips, and the latest industry know-how.
We’re here to make sure your next flooring decision is informed, stress-free, and built to last.
Key Takeaways
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Laminate, vinyl/LVT, real wood, engineered wood, parquet, and herringbone all have unique installation and maintenance needs—knowing the differences saves time and money.
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Proper subfloor preparation is the single most overlooked step in DIY flooring—skipping it leads to long-term problems.
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Cleaning methods vary by flooring type; the wrong technique can shorten its lifespan.
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Small mistakes like skipping expansion gaps or failing to acclimatise boards can ruin an otherwise great installation.
1. How to Lay Laminate Flooring?
Laying laminate isn’t rocket science—but it’s not just “click and go” either. You’ll need:
Tools: Nail punch, hammer, saw (jigsaw or handsaw), safety gear.
Materials: Underlay, damp-proof membrane, spacers.
Pro tip: Start in a corner and leave an 8–10mm expansion gap between the boards and the wall. This prevents buckling when the boards expand in changing humidity. Use spacers as you go, and cut the last board to fit.
2. What is LVT Flooring?
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) is a hard-wearing, easy-clean flooring that mimics wood, stone, or ceramic but offers more warmth and comfort underfoot. The tiles are individual, so damaged sections can be replaced without redoing the whole floor.
Best for: Busy households, kitchens, and waterproof spaces.
3. How to Lay Vinyl Flooring?
Vinyl is budget-friendly and DIY-friendly, but subfloor prep is critical. Clean, level, and dry before you start. Let the vinyl acclimatise in the room for 24 hours.
Lay it following the main light source in the room, cut neatly to size, and secure with adhesive or double-sided tape. Finish with skirting boards for a neat, protected edge.
4. How to Clean Laminate Flooring?
Skip the soaking—laminate hates excess water.
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Vacuum or sweep first.
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Use a damp microfibre mop, wrung out well.
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Spot clean with a mix of white vinegar and water for stains.
Never use steam cleaners or abrasive brushes—they can warp or scratch the surface.
5. Most Common Mistakes When Laying Laminate Flooring?
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Skipping subfloor prep – leads to bumps and uneven wear.
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No expansion gap – boards buckle or lift.
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No acclimatisation period – causes gaps after installation.
6. How to Cut Laminate Flooring?
Mark your cut with a pencil, allowing for the expansion gap. Use a saw with a fine-tooth blade for clean cuts, and sand edges lightly to avoid splinters.
7. What is Engineered Real Wood Flooring?
Made from layers of plywood with a hardwood top layer, engineered wood gives you the look of solid wood with better stability in humid environments.
Pros: Less warping, easier to install, easy to clean.
Cons: Can still scratch, and it’s pricier than laminate.
8. How to Lay Herringbone Flooring?
Herringbone is precision work—measure twice, cut once.
Find and mark the centre line of the room.
Lay the first “V” shape along this line, then work outward.
Use adhesive and a tapping block for secure, snug joints.
9. What is Parquet Flooring?
Parquet is a patterned wood floor, often laid in squares or geometric designs. It’s durable but can be prone to scratches and may look visually “busy” in smaller rooms.
10. How to Clean LVT Flooring?
Treat it like laminate—vacuum or sweep first, then damp mop with a pH-neutral cleaner. Avoid dragging furniture to prevent scratches.
FAQs
Q: How long should new flooring acclimatise before installation?
A: Most wood-based products (laminate, real wood) need 24–48 hours in the room before installation.
Q: Can I install new flooring over existing flooring?
A: Yes, but only if the existing floor is level, dry, and in good condition.
Q: Is underlay always necessary?
A: For most laminate and LVT floors—yes. It adds cushioning, insulation, and moisture protection.
Q: How often should I clean my floors?
A: Light sweeping or vacuuming daily in high-traffic areas, with a deeper clean weekly.
Summary
Whether you’re installing a timeless herringbone, a practical LVT, a budget-friendly laminate, or investing in real wood, the right prep, tools, and techniques make all the difference.
At UK Flooring Depot, we’re here to provide not just quality products, but also the guidance to help you achieve flawless results—first time, every time. And don’t forget to check our sale section for the best deals on premium flooring.
