How Parquet Floors Are Restored
Loose blocks, re-laying and the art of sanding patterns
Parquet is one of the most attractive and durable types of wooden floor, and many have been in place for 50 or even 100 years. Tired, loose or stained parquet can almost always be brought back, often for less than the cost of a new floor.
What goes wrong with parquet
Loose or rocking blocks, often where the original bitumen adhesive has failed.
Missing blocks around doorways, radiators and old fireplaces.
Dark stains from water, pets or plant pots.
An old finish that has turned yellow or is peeling.
Raised or dipped blocks that make the surface uneven.
Fixing the blocks first
The first step is to make every block secure. Loose blocks are taken up, cleaned of old bitumen and glued back down with a modern adhesive. Where blocks are missing or too damaged to save, we source reclaimed blocks in the same timber and size, so the repair is hard to spot once finished. Badly affected areas may need lifting and re-laying block by block. Our parquet repair service covers anything from a few loose blocks to complete re-laying.
Sanding a parquet floor
Parquet is more demanding to sand than floorboards because the grain runs in different directions. Sanding with the grain is impossible when the grain changes direction with every block. We work diagonally across the pattern, then refine the surface with finer grits and a multi-disc sander for a flawless finish. Done properly, the pattern comes up crisp and even.
Many parquet floors carry several layers of old finish. Removing them carefully, without sanding away more timber than needed, takes experience. Our parquet floor sanding uses dust-free extraction throughout, so your home stays clean.
Oil, lacquer or stain
Hardwax oil is a beautiful match for oak parquet, adding depth and making maintenance simple. In hallways and busy family homes, a water-based lacquer gives extra resistance to spills and wear. Rich timbers like merbau and walnut usually need nothing more than a clear finish.
Herringbone, chevron and more
There are many parquet layouts, each with its own requirements. Herringbone, with blocks set at right angles in a zigzag, is the classic choice in many homes. Chevron looks similar but uses blocks cut at an angle so they meet in a clean point. Basket weave, brick bond and block layouts are often found in schools and public buildings.
Repairs always follow the original layout, so new blocks fit perfectly into the pattern. Borders around the edge of the room are also common, and these often need extra attention during sanding and finishing.
Saving the original floor
It is often possible to save far more than people expect. Most parquet is made from solid blocks of hardwood, often 15 mm thick or more, so there is plenty of timber to sand. Large areas of loose blocks can often be re-laid, provided the subfloor beneath is in good condition. Restoring an original floor is usually more affordable than replacing it, and it keeps a beautiful, long-lasting feature in your home.
In summary
Every loose block is re-bonded and missing ones replaced with matching reclaimed blocks before sanding begins.
Because the grain runs in different directions, parquet is sanded diagonally before the finer finishing passes.
A multi-disc machine is used at the end to remove swirl marks and leave a smooth, even surface.
Oil brings out the pattern beautifully, and lacquer gives extra resistance where traffic is heavy.
Looked after properly, restored parquet will continue to serve the home for generations.
After the restoration
With felt pads, doormats and a regular sweep, restored parquet stays looking its best. Plan for an occasional maintenance oil or re-coat, depending on the finish. A parquet floor that is cared for can last for another generation.
Have parquet that needs some love? Arrange a free survey for an honest assessment and a fixed written quote.