Expert Wood Flooring Guides
Welcome to our collection of expert guides on wood flooring. Drawing on over a decade of experience installing and restoring herringbone and parquet floors across Lancashire, Merseyside, Cheshire and Greater Manchester, we've created these resources to help you make informed decisions about your flooring project.
Whether you're planning a new installation, considering a restoration, or simply exploring your options, these guides provide honest, practical advice from craftsmen who live and breathe wood floors every day.
CHOOSING YOUR FLOOR
Understand the real differences between solid and engineered oak flooring. We break down stability, longevity, cost, and suitability for different properties and subfloors, helping you choose the right option for your home.
Learn about these two classic patterns, how they differ, and which one suits your space and style.
Discover the pros and cons of oil and lacquer finishes, and which one will give you the look and durability you're after.
Discover why herringbone flooring adds value, character, and durability to any home — expert insight from Lancashire's patterned flooring specialists.
PLANNING YOUR PROJECT
A practical guide to getting your property ready, from clearing furniture to managing dust and ensuring your installation runs smoothly.
Transparent information about what drives the cost of herringbone and parquet installations, helping you plan your budget realistically.
Honest timelines for herringbone, parquet, and hardwood floor installation and restoration across Lancashire and Greater Manchester — what affects the schedule and what to expect.
The essential questions that will help you choose the right installer and avoid common pitfalls.
DESIGN & INSPIRATION
How room size, layout, and architecture influence which herringbone pattern will look best in your space.
Understanding wood tones and how to select a finish that complements your interior style and lighting.
The design considerations that will help you decide whether a border enhances or detracts from your herringbone floor.
CARE & MAINTENANCE
Expert advice on cleaning, protecting, and maintaining herringbone and parquet hardwood floors. This guide covers maintenance for all patterned hardwood floors — herringbone, parquet, and chevron — whether newly installed or recently restored.
How to recognise when your existing parquet or herringbone floor would benefit from professional restoration.
TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE
The facts about installing wood floors over underfloor heating, including what works, what doesn't, and how to avoid problems.
Why moisture matters, how it affects wood floors, and what you need to know about subfloor preparation and acclimatisation.
Learn from the problems we see most often when repairing other installers' work.
LOCAL GUIDES
Specific considerations for Victorian and Edwardian homes across Lancashire, from subfloor challenges to appropriate styles.
What works in modern new-build properties, from concrete subfloors to underfloor heating.
Still Have Questions?
These guides cover the most common questions we hear, but every property is different. If you'd like specific advice for your project, we're here to help.
Call us: 07856 308 208
Email: contact@crafthardwood.co.uk
Free site visit: We're happy to visit your property, assess your subfloors, and discuss the best options for your specific situation. No obligation.
We serve Chorley, Lancashire, Greater Manchester, Liverpool, and throughout the North West.
All guides written by the CRAFT Hardwood team - specialists in herringbone and parquet flooring installation and restoration since 2012.