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Subfloor Preparation & Floor Levelling Contractors London | London Flooring Fitters

Subfloor Preparation & Floor Levelling Contractors London

Professional subfloor preparation is essential to the appearance, adhesion and long-term performance of any new flooring installation. London Flooring Fitters™ provides specialist subfloor preparation and floor levelling across London, Greater London, Kent, Surrey and Essex. We work with concrete, screed and timber substrates in commercial premises, workplaces and residential properties, preparing floors correctly before the final floor covering is installed.

  • Amtico & Karndean Certified
  • Lifetime Guarantee
  • Fully Insured

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    • Amtico & Karndean CertifiedApproved installers for both brands
    • Fully Insured£10m public liability cover
    • Lifetime GuaranteeOn our installation workmanship
    • Out-of-Hours WorkEvenings, nights and weekends
    • 25 Years' ExperienceNVQ qualified, CSCS carded fitters
    • London & South EastEssex, Surrey, Kent and beyond
    Subfloor Preparation by London Flooring Fitters
    Subfloor Preparation

    The Strength of Every Floor Starts Below the Surface

    London Flooring Fitters™ provides specialist subfloor preparation and floor levelling across London, Greater London, Kent, Surrey and Essex. We work with concrete, screed and timber substrates in commercial premises, workplaces and residential properties, preparing floors correctly before the final floor covering is installed.

    Our experienced flooring contractors assess the existing substrate before recommending a preparation system.

    Depending on the condition of the floor, preparation may include floor covering uplift, adhesive residue removal, localised repairs, moisture testing, compatible surface damp-proof membranes, flooring-grade plywood, mechanical surface preparation and professional smoothing compounds.

    Every project is assessed individually, helping ensure the preparation system is appropriate for the substrate, environment and flooring scheduled for installation.

    Subfloor preparation only or complete supply and installation available.

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    Subfloor preparation by London Flooring Fitters
    Technical preparation

    The Floor Is Only as Good as the Subfloor Beneath It

    Most flooring failures start below the surface. Every installation begins with proper testing and preparation.

    • Moisture Testing

      Hygrometer and in-situ tests before any adhesive goes down.

    • DPM Systems

      Surface membranes that stop residual moisture lifting the floor.

    • Smoothing Compounds

      Levelled, flat substrates so imperfections never show through.

    • Plywood & Repairs

      Overlay boards, crack repairs and timber floors made sound.

    Why choose us

    Why Choose London Flooring Fitters

    • Certified Installers

      Amtico and Karndean approved, NVQ qualified fitters who install to manufacturer standards.

    • Technical Preparation

      Moisture testing, DPMs and smoothing as standard, so floors stay flat and bonded.

    • Commercial Experience

      Hotels, offices, clinics, schools and retail, working alongside main contractors.

    • Flexible Working Hours

      Evenings, nights and weekends to keep your business running.

    • Fully Insured

      £10m public liability, RAMS and CSCS carded operatives on every site.

    • Lifetime Guarantee

      Our installation workmanship is guaranteed for the life of the floor.

    How it works

    Our Installation Process

    1. 01

      Survey

      We visit, measure, test the subfloor and talk through how the space is used.

    2. 02

      Preparation

      Moisture testing, repairs, DPM and smoothing for a sound, level base.

    3. 03

      Planning

      Schedule, access, out-of-hours working and lead times agreed in writing.

    4. 04

      Installation

      Certified fitters install to manufacturer standards and keep the site tidy.

    5. 05

      Handover

      Final inspection, care guidance and our lifetime workmanship guarantee.

    Trusted by Businesses Across London and Beyond | London Flooring Fitters
    Customer reviews

    Trusted by Businesses Across London and Beyond

    We're proud to work with leading organisations, homeowners and designers across London, delivering exceptional flooring solutions.

    Read Our Google Reviews
    Verified review
    Google
    “Steven fitted Amtico beautifully throughout our kitchen and dining area - not a straightforward job with several alcoves and wonky walls, but we couldn't be happier with the end result. A pleasure to deal with and an honest approach to any challenges. Highly recommended!”
    JWJ Watson Home Owner
    Verified review
    Google
    “We recently had new flooring installed in some of our pub kitchen, and I couldn’t be more impressed with the result. From start to finish, the service was absolutely brilliant. The workmanship was of a very high standard, and everything was completed with great attention to detail. He was professional, reliable, and clearly takes pride in his work. The kitchen was left clean and tidy, and the finished floor looks fantastic as well as being perfectly suited for a busy kitchen environment. I would highly recommend his services to anyone looking for quality flooring and a truly professional job. We’re extremely pleased with the outcome.”
    JCJ Church Shepherd Neame
    Verified review
    Google
    “Steven and his partner helped us out on short notice last summer after the contractors we'd originally booked had admitted they couldn't actually install Amtico flooring. He did an amazing job, gave valuable advice about the sub-floor, and was available for a minor touch-up and follow-up questions. 7 months later and the floor still looks like new. Will definitely hire him again when we replace more flooring in the house.”
    LSL Schulze Home Owner
    Verified review
    Google
    “I couldn’t recommend Steven more highly. Not only did he fit my floor to an exceptional standard (I’m genuinely thrilled with the result) but he also went above and beyond when I was dealing with issues caused by other, far less reliable contractors. His professionalism, honesty, and expertise were clear from the start. He’s responsive, straightforward, and really knows what he’s talking about. It’s rare to find a tradesperson who combines skill with integrity but he does both effortlessly. He really is a gem, book him!”
    PCPui Chan Home Owner
    Verified review
    Google
    “Absolutely thrilled with the service from London Flooring Fitters! They installed Amtico herringbone flooring throughout my entire ground floor, including full self-levelling, and the results are stunning. The attention to detail was exceptional, and the finish is flawless. The team were professional, friendly, and a pleasure to have around, lovely guys who clearly take pride in their work. Everything was completed on time and to a very high standard. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for quality flooring and expert fitting.”
    JCJ Claire Business Owner
    Verified review
    Google
    “Steve did an absolutely awesome job of our hallway and was unbelievably helpful from start to finish. He went out of his way to give me advice on what type of flooring to go for, was not afraid to be honest and tell me if something wouldn't look good (this is usually the mark of someone very experienced). He fitted rubber flooring tiles in a really awkwardly shaped hallway and cut everything by hand absolutely beautifully with no seams visible at all. Cannot recommend him enough.”
    GMGeorgia Mackie Home Owner
    Verified review
    Google
    “Steven replaced some Amtico floor tiles that were lifting in our kitchen. On his first visit, he found damp underneath and was unable to do the job but made no fuss about the issue. After we had the damp problem fixed, Steven returned and did a great job making good on the concrete floor and replacing the tiles. Thank you!”
    ELE Livingston Home Owner
    Verified review
    Google
    “Steven fitted the whole of our flat. Once the floor arrived it was fitted within 10 days. Very caring and great attention to detail. We can't stop looking at it! Once it was finished there were a few little touch ups that were needed and Steven came and sorted them within a few days. Highly recommend!”
    AAlexis Home Owner
    Verified review
    Google
    “Overall brilliant flooring company. Steve priced the job quickly, at a competitive price and came in on time as discussed. The workmanship was evident in their approach and he made sure the job met his high standard of finish. Highly recommended”
    SCS Calil Home Owner
    Verified review
    Google
    “Looks amazing, will book again! Recommended right products, finished job quick and professional, couldn't look better.”
    EGE Grima Home Owner
    Verified review
    Google
    “We had a tricky remedial project and after searching all over Steven and his team confidently took it on and did a great job for us. They went above and beyond to make sure that it was done in a quick time frame. I would highly recommend London Flooring Fitters, and would gladly use them again.”
    MDM Davies Business Owner
    Verified review
    Google
    “Arrived promptly and did a great job fitting the vinyl. Really happy with the end result and they left everything nice and tidy. Thanks!”
    PEP Entwistle Home Owner
    Verified review
    Google
    “My kitchen has been transformed and he had the necessary skill and expertise to lay the amtico floor tiles I purchased in an efficient and professional manner. I thoroughly recommend”
    JDJ Dixie Home Owner
    Verified review
    Google
    “I couldn't recommend London Floor Fitters highly enough I was let down by a well known company and in short notice, at a reasonable price, they were able to help me out. The team are really knowledgable, professional and overall really lovely. They did a fantastic job on my amtico flooring- I'm so happy with the result.”
    CSC Stutt CTS Ltd
    Verified review
    Google
    “Used to lay about 100sq m of Amtico. Did a great job. Took great care with both the laying and keeping the apartment tidy and clean despite all the tools and materials. Good communications. Turned up exactly when they said they would.”
    DJD James Home Owner
    Verified review
    Google
    “We had their team come in and level our uneven floor and put new lvt floor down in two of our large community centre halls. Everyone of our users love it and it's made the space into a beautiful useable space again.”
    AAnthony KL Settlement
    Verified review
    Google
    “I had the team come out to repair some flooring after the plumbers repaired a leak. They did a great job levelling the flooring and relaying our LVT, very professional, easy to deal with and the flooring looks good as new! Definitely recommended!”
    BSBaldeep S Home Owner
    Verified review
    Google
    “Very happy with the service provided, would definitely recommend. Always good to come across a reliable tradesman”
    VCV Cooper Clinic
    Verified review
    Google
    “I wanted to extend an existing amtico floor into a new room. Others I spoke to about doing it were very sceptical about taking it on. But Steve was prepared to have a go and he did a superb job... You can't tell where the original meets the new tile. He is a wonderful craftsman and a perfectionist. A lovely person to work with.”
    CRC Roth Home Owner
    Verified review
    Checkatrade
    “Completely satisfied with the work carried out. Problems arose when old flooring was taken up and was dealt with very efficiently which was much appreciated. Would highly recommend this company to anyone looking to have flooring fitted.”
    VRVerified Reviewer
    Verified review
    Checkatrade
    “London flooring fitters fitted a new altro floor in our wet room. They gave good honest advice and were very easy to deal with. Came on time and finished on time. It looks great. A really good experience.”
    VRVerified Reviewer
    Verified review
    Checkatrade
    “Fantastic comms from start to finish, with sound advice along the way! Great fun to deal with and excellent end product, super happy!”
    VRVerified Reviewer
    Verified review
    Google
    “Steven helped us with some remedial works on our Amtico Flooring! He was very reliable, neat and professional! We are delighted with his works and we won't hesitate to contact him again for more flooring enquiries!”
    AAlexandra London
    Verified review
    Checkatrade
    “Steve and Jack worked extremely hard and ensured the floor was even. They were extremely courteous and helpful. They did an excellent job and I am genuinely happy to recommend this company.”
    VRVerified Reviewer
    Verified review
    Google
    “Fit Karndean flooring throughout my house and I couldn't of found 2 better qualified fitters in the London area. The quality of work on my new flooring was superb. They both went far and beyond what was originally discussed as they had to fix issues with the sub floor which unfortunately my builder didn't do a great job of. It was great to have 2 fitters who were knowledgeable and experts in there trade work on my flooring, and the end result is superb. I highly recommend London Flooring Fitters. There Customer service levels are excellent and are always happy to help and give advice on what's best for your flooring.”
    TPT Prabhakar London
    Verified review
    Checkatrade
    “We had London flooring round for an initial consultation to help navigate us around some tricky issues and guide us down the right path. After a very helpful meeting and lots of reassurance. We decided that this was the company for us. Very happy with the end product. Very nice people who are clearly work proud of the work they do. Great attention to detail. We wouldn’t have any issues in recommending Steve and his team to complete your flooring projects. Thank you Mark.”
    VRVerified Reviewer
    Verified review
    Google
    “London Floor Fitters tore up my old tiled floor, repaired the subfloor and layed karndean tiles for me. The work they did was top quality. I would definitely have them back in the future if we needed another floor doing.”
    EKEd Key Business Owner
    Verified review
    Google
    “After a long search to find someone to repair the Polyflor in our kitchen it was a relief to find Steve and Jack who came promptly and did an excellent job - you would never know there had been an issue with it. I thoroughly recommend them.”
    MCM Campbell Home Owner
    Verified review
    Checkatrade
    “From start to finish, the team was punctual, polite, and professional. The work was completed on time with an excellent finish. Couldn’t be happier.”
    VRVerified Reviewer
    Verified review
    Checkatrade
    “London Flooring Fitters Limited did an excellent job – professional, efficient, and the finish on my floors is flawless. Highly recommended!”
    VRVerified Reviewer
    Verified review
    Google
    “We contacted Steven as in the property we bought recently we modified our kitchen and we had a square without floor. He's been great, polite and easy going, from booking the appointment to explaining what was going on. We couldn't be happier to have chosen them, and obviously the result. These guys need 7 stars out of 5 if it was down to us. Keep up the brilliant work.”
    DBDaniele 'Biry' Biry

    Trusted by leading brands

    • Marriott
    • Apple
    • Mercedes-Benz
    • Bupa
    • Lyle & Scott
    • Boom Battle Bar
    • Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity
    • HSBC
    • itsu
    • Browns
    • Euclid Law
    • Meyer
    • TLC Care
    • Daley Fitness
    • KLS
    • Santa Nata London
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    Subfloor Preparation by London Flooring Fitters
    In detail

    Everything You Need to Know About Subfloor Preparation

    Why Choose London Flooring Fitters for Subfloor Preparation?

    Subfloor Diagnosis Before Materials Are Specified

    Effective preparation starts with understanding why a floor is unsuitable.

    We examine the substrate for moisture, movement, weakness, contamination, cracking and surface variation before recommending materials.

    This condition-led approach helps avoid unnecessary work while ensuring the proposed preparation system is appropriate for the substrate and floor covering.

    Experienced Flooring Contractors

    Our knowledge of finished flooring installation allows us to prepare the subfloor with the final covering in mind.

    Whether the project involves Amtico, Karndean, Polyflor, safety flooring, sheet vinyl, rubber, linoleum or other commercial flooring systems, the preparation is planned around the requirements of the finished installation.

    Commercial & Domestic Projects

    We undertake subfloor preparation for homeowners, businesses, contractors and property professionals throughout London and the South East.

    Projects can include:

    • Offices
    • Hotels
    • Retail premises
    • Restaurants and hospitality
    • Healthcare environments
    • Universities
    • Care homes
    • Residential properties
    • Commercial refurbishments

    Complete Preparation & Flooring Installation

    London Flooring Fitters™ can undertake subfloor preparation as a standalone service or manage the complete flooring project.

    Combining preparation and installation provides clearer responsibility throughout the project, with preparation products, adhesives and floor coverings selected to work together as a compatible flooring system.

    Professional Subfloor Preparation Contractors

    The quality of a finished floor depends heavily on the condition of the substrate beneath it.

    Installing LVT, vinyl, slip resistant flooring, rubber or other bonded floor coverings over an unsuitable base can contribute to visible imperfections, poor adhesion and premature flooring failure.

    Our preparation service is designed to identify potential problems before installation begins.

    We work with:

    • Concrete subfloors
    • Sand-and-cement screeds
    • Calcium sulphate screeds
    • Timber floors
    • Existing flooring substrates
    • Commercial refurbishment projects
    • Domestic flooring installations

    Rather than applying the same preparation method to every project, we assess the actual condition of the floor and specify the preparation required.

    Subfloor Preparation for Commercial Flooring

    Commercial flooring installations often require more detailed preparation due to larger areas, heavier use and tighter project programmes.

    We provide specialist subfloor preparation for commercial premises across London and the South East.

    Preparation can be carried out independently or as part of a complete flooring package, providing clearer responsibility from the initial survey through to final installation.

    Preparation for LVT, Vinyl & Safety Flooring

    Subfloor preparation may be required before installing:

    • LVT
    • Vinyl
    • Safety flooring
    • Rubber flooring
    • Carpet Tiles
    • Altro
    • Amtico
    • Karndean
    • Polyflor

    Careful mixing, application and finishing help create a consistent base ready for the flooring installation that follows.

    How We Prepare Your Subfloor for Lasting Performance

    Investigating the Existing Substrate

    We begin by examining the floor construction, measuring the working area and identifying anything that could affect preparation or installation. Surface strength, cracks, laitance, contamination, movement, previous adhesives and existing coverings are considered alongside access and project timescales. These findings allow us to explain the floor’s condition clearly and recommend preparation based on evidence rather than guesswork.

    Establishing the Moisture Condition

    Residual construction moisture or moisture entering from below can affect adhesives, preparation materials and finished floor coverings. Where required, we assess the substrate using an appropriate testing method and compare the results with the proposed flooring system. If readings exceed the permitted limits for the proposed flooring system, we can recommend a compatible surface damp-proof membrane or another moisture-control solution suited to the substrate, site conditions and intended floor covering.

    Addressing Weak Surfaces, Residues and Localised Damage

    Preparation products require a suitable surface to bond effectively. Depending on our findings, work may include floor covering uplift, removal of loose or weak material and localised repairs. Existing adhesive residues and suspected contaminants are assessed before disturbance, allowing an appropriate removal, isolation or preparation method to be specified before primers, membranes or smoothing compounds are introduced.

    Creating the Specified Flooring Base

    Once the substrate is ready, we install the preparation system specified for the project. This may include primers, repair compounds, moisture-control membranes, flooring-grade plywood or smoothing compounds applied at an appropriate depth. Products are selected for compatibility with one another and the intended floor covering, helping establish a sound, sufficiently flat base ready for professional installation.

    Checking Readiness Before Flooring Begins

    Preparation is allowed to dry, cure or stabilise for the period required by the relevant manufacturer. Before flooring installation proceeds, we review the prepared surface, perimeter details and any repaired areas, confirming that the next stage can begin as specified. Customers receive clear guidance on access, protection and programme requirements, creating an accountable handover between preparation and finished-floor installation.

    Prefer to show us? Pick a video call and walk us round your space from your phone.

    Free video call site surveys, so we can see the floor, the subfloor and the access before we quote.

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    Frequently asked questions

    Got Questions? We Have Answers.

    Find quick answers to our most common questions about flooring, installation and our services.

    What is subfloor preparation, and why is it important?

    Subfloor preparation is the process of inspecting, treating and preparing a concrete, sand-and-cement, calcium sulphate or timber substrate so it is suitable for receiving a new floor covering. It can include moisture testing, repairs, surface cleaning, flooring-grade plywood, priming, damp-proof membranes and smoothing compounds. Proper preparation supports adhesion, appearance and long-term performance. Recognised British Standards and manufacturer technical guidance set out recommendations for ensuring substrates are suitably sound, smooth and dry before flooring is installed.

    How much does subfloor preparation cost per m²?

    Subfloor preparation costs depend on the substrate material, total area, surface condition and technical requirements. Applying a primer and suitable flooring-grade smoothing compound will generally cost less than extensive uplift, mechanical preparation, repairs, plywood installation or a surface damp-proof membrane. Application depth, site access and drying times can also affect labour costs. We inspect every project individually and provide a clear, itemised quotation because an accurate universal price cannot be given before assessment.

    How do I know whether my subfloor needs smoothing or levelling?

    A subfloor may require preparation if it contains dips, ridges, cracks, weak areas, pronounced board joints or changes in height. In flooring terminology, “level” and “flat” do not mean exactly the same thing: a substrate may not need to be level relative to gravity, but it must be sufficiently flat for the proposed covering. We assess surface variation against the flooring manufacturer’s requirements before specifying repairs or smoothing compounds.

    Does every concrete subfloor need a damp-proof membrane?

    No. A surface damp-proof membrane should be specified according to moisture-test results, substrate construction, site conditions and the requirements of the proposed flooring system. Concrete may appear dry while retaining moisture internally, making visual inspection insufficient. Where readings exceed the permitted limit for the selected system, the appropriate response may involve further drying or the installation of a compatible surface damp-proof membrane before bonded flooring is fitted.

    How is moisture tested in a concrete or screeded subfloor?

    Where required, the moisture condition of concrete and screeded substrates should be assessed using an appropriate test method. A calibrated surface hygrometer is commonly used to measure the relative humidity of confined air in equilibrium with the subfloor, while electronic meters can assist with preliminary investigation. Results must be interpreted against the requirements of the selected preparation materials, adhesive and finished floor covering.

    Can smoothing compound be applied over timber floors?

    Yes, but only when the timber base and selected preparation products are suitable. Boards should be assessed for damage, movement, deflection, moisture and secure fixing. Preparation may include refixing, flooring-grade plywood, an appropriate primer, reinforcement or a flexible smoothing self levelling compound approved for timber. Panel thickness and fixing requirements should be determined from the floor construction and complete flooring specification.

    Can new flooring be installed over old adhesive residue?

    Sometimes, but the residue must first be identified and assessed for bond strength, contamination and compatibility. Loose, weak or unsuitable material may require removal, while certain firmly bonded residues can sometimes be treated using a manufacturer-approved isolation or preparation system. Suspected asbestos-containing tiles or adhesives must not be sanded, ground or otherwise disturbed without appropriate specialist assessment and controls.

    How long does smoothing, latex or self-levelling compound take to dry?

    Drying time varies by product formulation, application thickness, substrate, temperature, relative humidity and ventilation. Some rapid-setting compounds can accept foot traffic and floor coverings within several hours, while other products or deeper applications require longer. Walking time is not equivalent to readiness for flooring installation. Always follow the manufacturer's technical data sheet rather than assuming a universal waiting period.

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    Herringbone LVT staircase and hallway fitted by London Flooring Fitters
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