Parquet flooring adds elegance and character to any home, but looks perfect in period properties. With its intricate geometric patterns, it’s often seen as a luxury choice that can elevate the look of a room. But how much does parquet flooring cost in the UK?

How much does it cost to lay parquet flooring?

The cost of laying parquet flooring typically ranges from £50 to £100 per square metre, depending on the type of wood, the pattern complexity and the installer’s expertise. Labour costs generally make up a significant portion, as the installation process is more intricate than standard hardwood flooring.

For custom designs or premium materials, you could pay £120 per m² or more. Additionally, if you need to have your floor levelled, expect to pay extra.

Parquet restoration costs

Restoring parquet flooring can be an attractive option if you already have structurally sound parquet flooring but it just needs some love. Expect it to cost at least £680 to restore a 17m² living room with parquet floor. The final cost will depend on the extent of repairs, sanding, and finishing required. 

Factors such as the condition of the wood and the finish you choose will affect the final price. Restoring an old parquet floor can preserve its unique character while giving it a fresh appearance.

Factors affecting the cost of parquet flooring

Several factors can influence the cost of parquet flooring, including:

• Type of wood: Different woods, such as oak, walnut and mahogany, vary in price. Oak is typically one of the most affordable options, while exotic woods like walnut or teak are usually more expensive.
• Pattern complexity: Simple patterns, like herringbone, cost less than complex designs like chevron or Versailles.
• Preparation work: Subfloor repairs or levelling will add to the total cost.
• Finishing: Staining, oiling, or lacquering can add additional expenses to complete the look.
• Where you live: Your location has one of the biggest impacts on the cost of fitting parquet floor. Flooring specialist rates tend to be higher in larger towns and cities, and lower in less populated areas.

At HaMuch, our database of hourly and daily rates from flooring specialists across the UK allows us to help you get an estimate for your parquet floor. Take a look at our UK flooring specialists rates table and find your nearest town or city to get a more accurate idea of how much your parquet flooring project will cost.

Advantages and disadvantages of parquet flooring

If you’re still undecided about whether parquet flooring is right for you, weigh up the pros and cons:

Parquet flooring pattern types

Parquet flooring is distinguished by its unique patterns, which can create wonderful aesthetic effects in a space. Each pattern brings its own charm and can influence the visual dynamics of a room, from adding depth to creating a sense of movement. Here are some popular types of parquet flooring patterns:

Herringbone

The herringbone pattern is one of the most traditional and widely recognised parquet designs. In this style, the planks are laid in a staggered, v-shaped pattern, creating a visually striking look. Herringbone has a timeless appeal, giving rooms a sense of rhythm and elegance. It’s commonly seen in period properties but works well in contemporary settings too.

Chevron

Chevron is similar to herringbone but has a key difference: the planks are cut at an angle, so they join to create a continuous zigzag or ‘arrow’ pattern. This design has a clean, seamless look, creating a sense of movement and energy in a room. Chevron is often seen as slightly more modern and formal than herringbone.

Basket weave

Basket weave patterns create a square-like appearance, where smaller sets of planks are grouped together to form larger, interwoven squares. This style has a classic charm, lending itself well to both traditional and rustic interiors. It’s a good option for adding visual interest without being overly complex.

Versailles

Named after the famous palace, the Versailles pattern is intricate and luxurious. This pattern combines multiple smaller pieces of wood to form a square tile, with each tile creating a repeating geometric design. Versailles parquet flooring is often used in grand spaces due to its elegant and opulent appearance. It’s one of the more complex and high-end patterns, which adds to installation costs.

Brick pattern

The brick pattern, sometimes called stack bond or running bond, features planks laid in a straightforward, horizontal-vertical arrangement, much like traditional brickwork. This pattern is simpler than others but still offers a structured and appealing look, especially for minimalist or industrial-style interiors.

Hexagon

For a modern and striking look, hexagonal parquet flooring incorporates six-sided shapes that fit together in a honeycomb pattern. This style brings a contemporary edge to traditional parquet and can make smaller rooms feel larger by drawing the eye outward in all directions.

Each of these patterns has distinct visual qualities and can dramatically alter the look and feel of a room. The right pattern for your project will depend on your personal style, the character of the home and the visual impact you want.

Is parquet cheaper than hardwood?

Parquet and hardwood flooring planks are generally in the same price range, but parquet is often more expensive to install due to its intricate designs. 

You could choose a simpler pattern, like herringbone, to bring down your costs, but if you are on a budget you may want to consider other flooring options like laminate or LVT. 

Does parquet flooring add value to your home?

Yes, parquet flooring is known to add value to a property. Its classic look and durable nature appeal to many buyers, particularly if it’s well-maintained or has recently been restored. Parquet’s luxurious feel and aesthetic appeal often make it an attractive selling point.

How long do parquet floors last?

Parquet flooring can last between 30 to 50 years, or even longer with proper care. Periodic sanding and refinishing help preserve the wood and keep the surface looking new, extending its lifespan. The durability of parquet depends largely on the wood type, maintenance and foot traffic.

Parquet flooring fitting process

Parquet flooring fitting is a tricky job that professionals spend years learning to get the technique right. Here are the general steps that a flooring specialist will take to lay your parquet flooring:

1. Preparation

The first step in any parquet flooring installation is to prepare the subfloor. This is essential because parquet requires a stable, level surface to ensure a long-lasting installation. Here’s what’s involved:

• Cleaning: The subfloor needs to be thoroughly cleaned to remove any dust, dirt or debris that could affect the adhesive or cause imperfections.
• Levelling: Uneven floors need to be levelled using a self-levelling compound or by sanding down high spots. Any dips or irregularities in the subfloor can result in the parquet pieces shifting or cracking over time.
• Moisture control: Parquet is susceptible to moisture damage, so the subfloor must be completely dry. Your flooring specialist may conduct moisture tests if they are concerned there might be moisture present in your subfloor. They may apply a moisture barrier if necessary, especially in rooms like basements.

2. Acclimatisation

Parquet flooring needs to acclimatise to the room’s temperature and humidity before installation. The installer will typically leave the parquet planks in the room for at least 5 days, allowing them to adjust. 

This step reduces the risk of expansion or contraction after fitting, which could cause your floor to warp or buckle.

3. Planning the layout

Before laying any parquet, the installer carefully plans the layout to ensure the pattern aligns symmetrically and complements the room’s dimensions. Key steps in this phase include:

• Measuring the area: The installer measures the room accurately to determine how much material is required and where to begin the pattern. They will mark the centre point on each wall, and may extend a chalk line to the opposite wall to create an intersection in the middle of the room.
• Dry layout: For intricate patterns like herringbone or chevron, some installers may do a dry run, laying out the pieces without adhesive to visualise the final result and make adjustments.

4. Laying the parquet

Once your flooring specialist has planned the layout, the actual installation begins. This step requires precision to achieve the desired pattern and ensure a stable fit:

• Applying adhesive: The flooring specialist spreads a high-quality adhesive over the subfloor in sections to prevent it from drying out before the wood is laid.
• Placing each piece: Each plank of parquet is carefully positioned in the chosen pattern, pressing it firmly into the adhesive. With intricate patterns, slight adjustments may be made to maintain symmetry and ensure each piece fits snugly.
• Spacing and alignment: The installer frequently checks the alignment, especially with patterns like herringbone, to maintain consistent spacing and avoid gaps.

5. Sanding and levelling

After the parquet is laid and the adhesive has fully set, the next step is to sand the surface. Sanding achieves a smooth, even finish across the entire floor:

• Initial Sanding: The floor is lightly sanded to smooth out any minor imperfections and level out any slight height differences between pieces.
• Fine Sanding: To achieve a polished look, the installer may use finer-grade sandpaper, ensuring the surface is perfectly smooth.

5. Finishing

The final step in the installation process is adding the finishing touches, which give your parquet flooring that classic look:

• Sanding: Sometimes, your flooring may require light sanding to remove any imperfections or slight height differences.
• Selecting a finish: If your planks haven’t been pre-finished during manufacture, a finish will be required to seal the floor. Common finishes include oil or lacquer. Oil brings out the natural grain and offers a subtle sheen, while lacquer provides a more durable, glossy surface.
• Applying the finish: The chosen finish is applied evenly across the entire floor, often in multiple coats to ensure a high-quality result. Each coat may require drying time, followed by a light sanding between applications to create a smooth, long-lasting finish.
• Cleaning: If your boards have been pre-finished, all the flooring specialist will need to do is give your new parquet flooring a clean. They’ll do this without using excess moisture to prevent damage to the boards.

Can I lay parquet flooring myself?

As we’ve just explained, laying parquet flooring is a precise job that requires experience, especially with complex patterns. DIY installation is possible if you’re confident and have the right skills, but it may not achieve the same quality as professional installation. For intricate patterns, we’d always recommend hiring a professional.

Is parquet flooring worth it?

For homeowners looking for an elegant, durable and timeless flooring option, parquet flooring is certainly worth considering. Although it has a higher initial cost, we think that its longevity, aesthetic appeal and potential to increase property value make it a worthwhile investment.

If you’re ready to get quotes for your parquet flooring project, post your job with HaMuch now and we’ll put you in touch with reliable flooring specialists in your area.

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