Monday - Friday 07:30 - 17:30, Saturday 07:30 - 16:00
Monday - Friday 07:30 - 17:30, Saturday 07:30 - 16:00
We recently fitted 45 square metres of laminate flooring in a Victorian terraced property on Ladbroke Grove. The homeowner wanted a warm, durable surface that would withstand family life while complementing the period features of their 1890s home. The work involved careful preparation of the existing subfloor, removal of old skirting boards, and installation of the new laminate with all necessary underlay and trim.
This Ladbroke Grove property presented the challenges typical of Victorian terraced homes. The original timber floorboards had significant movement, and the subfloor sat slightly out of level across the main reception room. Rather than attempt to sand and treat the existing boards, the client chose laminate for its durability and ease of maintenance, particularly important with young children in the household. We arrived to find the property largely cleared, though some furniture and fittings remained in adjacent rooms.
Our approach focused on thorough preparation. We removed the existing carpet, checked the subfloor for damp using a moisture meter, and found readings well within acceptable limits. We applied a self levelling compound to the worst affected areas, allowing 24 hours curing time before proceeding. The laminate was acclimated in the property for three days before fitting, which is essential in period properties where temperature and humidity fluctuate more than in modern homes. Installation took four days, with particular care taken around the bay window and where the floor meets the original fireplace alcoves. We finished with skirting boards matching the existing Victorian style, which made a considerable difference to how the new floor integrated with the room's character.
We carry out a significant amount of work across Ladbroke Grove and the surrounding W10 postcodes. The area is predominantly Victorian and Edwardian terraced properties, many of which still have original timber floors. We also work regularly in the newer conversions and mansion blocks that have appeared in recent years. Each property type brings different requirements. Victorian terraces often need subfloor preparation and careful management of solid ground floors, whilst the mansion blocks frequently have concrete subfloors that require moisture barriers. We've also fitted laminate, engineered wood, and vinyl in the newer residential developments on Bayswater Road and around Notting Hill Gate.
Homeowners in this part of London typically prefer flooring that balances period authenticity with modern practicality. Laminate is particularly popular because it offers the appearance of wood grain or stone finishes without the maintenance demands or expense of solid wood or natural materials. The area has high foot traffic, and many properties are rented to tenants, so durability and easy cleaning are genuine priorities. We find that clients here appreciate advice on colour selection to complement their existing décor, and we often work alongside interior designers and architects who are managing wider renovation projects across the neighbourhood.
How much does laminate fitting cost per square metre in W10?
Fitting costs typically range from £35 to £60 per square metre depending on the complexity of the room layout, subfloor condition, and any skirting or trim work required. Jobs with awkward doorways, alcoves, or underfloor heating installations sit at the higher end. On this Ladbroke Grove project, fitting came to £42 per square metre including underlay and basic trims.
What preparation is needed before fitting laminate?
The subfloor must be clean, dry, and reasonably level. We check all floors with a moisture meter and a straightedge. If there's significant unevenness, we may apply levelling compound. Existing carpets and underlay are removed, old skirting boards taken off, and any protruding nails extracted. The laminate itself needs acclimatisation time in the property, typically two to three days, to adjust to the temperature and humidity.
How long does laminate fitting take?
A straightforward 45 square metre job like this one takes four to five working days. This includes subfloor preparation, acclimatisation, laying the laminate, and fitting trims and skirting. More complex layouts with islands, multiple room junctions, or extensive underfloor preparation can extend the timeline by several days.