Question 1

Why choose JS Woodcraft?

Accepted Answer

At JS Woodcraft, we specialise in producing high-quality, bespoke engineered oak flooring, finished in-house at our Yorkshire factory.

In-house finishing
All of our flooring is finished in-house, giving us full control over quality, colour, and consistency.

Bespoke to your specification
Every order is made to suit your exact requirements—choose your colour, grade, size, texture, and pattern to create a truly unique floor.

Fully finished – no extra work required
Unlike many suppliers, our floors arrive fully finished and ready to install, with no need for additional coating after fitting.

Tested for real life
Our finishes are tested against everyday spills such as red wine, butter, and general household use, ensuring durability in busy homes.

Wide range of options
We offer over 600 colours and multiple formats, including plank, herringbone, chevron, and more.

Expert support
From samples to final installation, our team is on hand to guide you through the process and ensure you choose the right flooring for your project.

We combine traditional craftsmanship with modern finishing techniques to produce flooring that is both practical and built to last.

With JS Woodcraft, you’re not choosing an off-the-shelf product—you’re creating a floor tailored specifically to your home.

Question 2

What is Engineered Oak Flooring ?

Accepted Answer

Engineered oak flooring is a high-quality, real wood flooring made from multiple layers of timber. The top layer (also known as the wear layer) is made from genuine European oak, giving it the same natural beauty and character as solid oak flooring.

Beneath this, there are several layers of plywood or hardwood that are bonded together in a cross-layered construction. This structure provides excellent stability, making engineered oak flooring less prone to movement caused by changes in temperature and humidity.

As a result, engineered oak flooring is suitable for use with underfloor heating and can be installed in areas where solid wood may not be ideal. It also offers the flexibility of being sanded and refinished over time, depending on the thickness of the oak layer.

At JS Woodcraft, all of our engineered oak flooring is crafted using high-quality European oak and finished in-house at our Yorkshire factory, allowing for complete control over colour, texture, and durability.

Question 3

What is the difference between Engineered Oak Flooring & Solid Oak Flooring

Accepted Answer

The main difference between engineered oak flooring and solid oak flooring lies in their construction and stability.

Engineered oak flooring is made from multiple layers of timber, with a real oak top (wear) layer and a cross-layered core beneath. This construction makes it highly stable and resistant to changes in temperature and humidity. It is suitable for use with underfloor heating and can be installed in a wider range of environments.

Solid oak flooring, on the other hand, is made from a single piece of oak throughout its thickness. While it offers a traditional feel and can be sanded multiple times, it is more prone to expansion and contraction due to moisture and temperature changes. This makes it less suitable for areas with fluctuating conditions or underfloor heating.
A common misconception is that solid oak flooring is a higher-quality or longer-lasting product because it is “solid” throughout. However, in reality, both solid and engineered flooring can only be sanded down to the top of the tongue and groove. This means the usable wear layer is often comparable to a high-quality engineered board with a thick oak veneer (such as 4–6mm).
In many cases, engineered oak flooring provides the best of both worlds — a genuine oak surface with excellent durability, combined with superior stability and performance.

In summary, engineered oak flooring offers greater stability, flexibility, and suitability for modern environments, while solid oak flooring is a more traditional option but requires more controlled conditions and careful installation.

Question 4

What is the difference between UV Oiled, Hardwax Oiled and Lacquered Finishes?

Accepted Answer

The main difference between UV oiled, hardwax oiled, and lacquered finishes is how they protect the wood and how the floor looks and feels.

UV Oiled Finish
A UV oiled finish is applied in a factory and cured instantly using ultraviolet light. This creates a durable, consistent surface that enhances the natural look of the oak while offering good protection against wear. It requires less maintenance than traditional oils and is ideal for both residential and commercial settings.

Hardwax Oiled Finish
Hardwax oil penetrates into the wood and enhances the natural grain, giving a warm, matte and more “natural” feel underfoot. It is very popular for its authentic look. While it may require more regular maintenance, it has the advantage of being easy to repair locally without needing to refinish the entire floor.

Lacquered Finish
Lacquer sits on top of the wood, forming a protective sealed layer. It offers the highest level of protection against scratches, stains, and moisture, making it a practical choice for high-traffic areas. Lacquered floors are easy to clean and maintain but can look slightly less natural compared to oiled finishes. Repairs usually require sanding and refinishing the whole area.

In summary:
UV Oil = durable, natural look, low maintenance
Hardwax Oil = most natural feel, repairable, needs more upkeep
Lacquer = highest protection, easiest to clean, less natural appearance

Question 5

I like a specific colour, but I want to add the Bandsawn texture.

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. At JS Woodcraft, all of our flooring is finished in-house, which means you can combine any of our colours with different textures, including bandsawn.
Bandsawn is a popular texture that adds character and a more rustic, natural feel to the floor, with visible saw marks running across the surface. When paired with your chosen colour, it can completely change the overall look—adding depth, movement, and a more bespoke finish.
Because everything is made to order, we can customise your flooring to suit your exact preference. We would always recommend ordering a sample so you can see how the colour and texture work together before proceeding.

If you have a specific look in mind, our team can create bespoke samples combining your chosen colour and texture to ensure it’s exactly right before production

Question 6

I really like the idea of having plank my living room, but Herringbone in the hall way?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. Combining plank flooring with herringbone in different areas of your home is a popular design choice and works really well.
Using planks in larger spaces like living rooms helps create a clean, open feel, while herringbone in areas such as hallways or entrances adds a striking, decorative feature and a real “wow” factor as you enter the property.

At JS Woodcraft, we can produce both plank and herringbone in the same colour and finish, ensuring a seamless flow between rooms while still creating contrast through the pattern.
We can also advise on transitions between areas, such as using borders or feature strips, to create a clean and intentional look.

This combination allows you to keep consistency in colour while adding visual interest through pattern, giving your home a bespoke, high-end finish.

Question 7

Do I fit my kitchen after or before the flooring ?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, it is recommended to install your kitchen units before the flooring.
Fitting the kitchen first allows the flooring to be installed neatly up to the cabinets, while still allowing the floor to naturally expand and contract. This is especially important with engineered oak flooring, as it needs room to move with changes in temperature and humidity.
Installing flooring under fixed kitchen units can restrict this movement and may lead to issues over time. It can also make future repairs or changes more difficult.
Once the kitchen is in place, the flooring is then fitted around it, with expansion gaps carefully allowed for and neatly finished.

Are there any exceptions?
Yes—some customers choose to install flooring throughout first for aesthetic reasons, particularly if they plan to change the kitchen in the future. In this case, it’s important to discuss this with your installer to ensure the correct preparation and expansion allowances are made.

Question 8

Do you supply and fit?

Accepted Answer

We specialise in supplying high-quality engineered oak flooring. While we do not carry out installations ourselves, we work closely with a number of trusted fitters who have partnered with JS Woodcraft for many years.
They can arrange a convenient time to visit your property, assess the space, and discuss your requirements in detail.

During their visit, they will:

Measure the area and calculate the total m² required, including fitting wastage
Advise on the installation method (e.g. glued or floating)
Confirm whether additional materials are needed, such as glue, DPM, underlay, or PVAC
Check if door thresholds or trims are required between different floor levels

The fitter will then provide you with a separate quotation for the installation work. If you’re happy to proceed, payment for fitting is made directly to them once the work is complete.
Following the site visit, the fitter will supply us with a full materials list so we can provide you with an accurate quote for the flooring and accessories required.

Please note that site conditions can occasionally change between the initial visit and installation, so there may be instances where additional materials are needed.

This approach ensures you receive expert installation alongside a precise and tailored flooring quotation.

Question 9

What thickness of engineered oak flooring should I choose?

Accepted Answer

The most common choices are 16/4mm and 20/6mm, and the right option depends on how the space will be used.

16/4mm (16mm total thickness with a 4mm oak top layer)
This is the most popular option for residential homes and offers an excellent balance of durability, stability, and cost. It is suitable for most areas including living rooms, bedrooms, and kitchens, and works well with underfloor heating.

20/6mm (20mm total thickness with a 6mm oak top layer)
This is a more premium, heavy-duty option. The thicker construction provides increased stability, a more solid feel underfoot, and a longer lifespan. It’s ideal for high-traffic areas, larger spaces, or commercial settings. The thicker wear layer also allows for more sanding and refinishing over time.

At JS Woodcraft, we offer both options so you can choose the right balance between performance, budget, and long-term durability.

Question 10

What is the best grade of oak for my home? (Rustic, Nature, Prime)

Accepted Answer

The best grade of oak flooring depends on the look you want to achieve, as each grade offers a different level of natural character and variation. Importantly, there is no compromise on quality between grades—the difference is purely aesthetic and linked to how the timber is selected.
Rustic Grade

Rustic oak has the most natural character, featuring larger knots, colour variation, and natural markings. This creates a more traditional, lived-in look and works well in both classic and contemporary interiors.
Because oak trees naturally contain knots and variation, rustic grade makes full use of the timber, making it the most cost-effective option while still maintaining the same high quality.
Nature Grade

Nature grade offers a balance between clean and characterful. It includes some knots and variation but is more consistent than rustic.
Due to the increased selection process, this grade typically sits at a mid-range price point.
Prime Grade

Prime oak is the cleanest and most uniform option, with minimal knots and colour variation. It provides a sleek, modern appearance and is often chosen for contemporary spaces.
As this grade requires the most selective timber, it is the most premium and higher-priced option.

Key points to remember:
All grades are the same high quality oak
The difference is purely appearance, not performance
Rustic = most natural and cost-effective
Nature = balanced look, mid-range price
Prime = cleanest look, premium option

Question 11

What plank width should I go for?

Accepted Answer

The width of your flooring planks can have a big impact on how a room looks and feels. The right choice depends on the size of the space and the style you’re aiming to achieve.
Wider planks (e.g. 220mm – 300mm)

Wide boards create a more open, seamless look with fewer joins, helping rooms feel larger and more premium. They are ideal for bigger spaces such as open-plan living areas, where you can really appreciate the scale and natural beauty of the oak.
Narrower planks (e.g. 120mm – 180mm)

Narrower boards give a more traditional feel and can work well in smaller rooms or properties with a classic design. They introduce more movement and detail due to the increased number of boards.

How it affects your space:
Wide planks = make rooms feel larger, more modern, and high-end
Narrow planks = add detail, texture, and a more traditional look

Question 12

Should I choose long planks or shorter boards?

Accepted Answer

The length of your flooring boards can significantly influence the overall look and feel of your space.
Long planks (e.g. up to 2.8m from our Elite range)

Longer boards create a more seamless and luxurious appearance, with fewer joins across the floor. This helps rooms feel larger, cleaner, and more high-end. They are particularly effective in open-plan spaces where the full length of the board can be appreciated.
Long planks also highlight the natural beauty of the oak, showcasing the grain and character in a more continuous way.

Shorter boards
Shorter boards create more joins, which adds movement and a slightly busier look to the floor. This can suit smaller rooms or more traditional interiors, but won’t give the same open, premium feel as longer lengths.

At JS Woodcraft, we specialise in long-length boards, allowing you to create a truly premium, bespoke floor with fewer joins and a more refined finish.

Question 13

Which flooring colour is best for my space?

Accepted Answer

Choosing the right flooring colour depends on the look you want to achieve, the size of your space, and how the room is used.

Light colours (e.g. natural, white, or Scandi tones)
Light floors help make a space feel brighter, larger, and more open. They work well in modern interiors and are ideal for smaller or darker rooms. They also tend to show less dust but may highlight marks or stains more easily.

Mid tones (e.g. natural oak, warm browns)
Mid-tone floors are the most versatile option. They suit both modern and traditional interiors and are very practical for everyday living, as they help disguise dust, dirt, and wear.
Dark colours (e.g. smoked, deep browns)

Dark floors create a more dramatic, high-end look and work well in larger spaces or rooms with plenty of natural light. However, they can show dust, pet hair, and scratches more easily.
How to choose the right colour:
Small or dark rooms → lighter tones to open up the space
Busy households → mid tones to help hide dirt and wear - a dark grain is very forgiving
Large, bright spaces → darker tones for a more premium feel

Question 14

What is the most popular flooring style at the moment?

Accepted Answer

Current flooring trends are focused on natural, warm tones and timeless finishes, moving away from cooler greys and overly dark, heavy colours.
Light and natural oak colours are leading the way, creating bright, open spaces that feel modern yet long-lasting in style. At the same time, classic patterns like herringbone and wider planks continue to be very popular for adding a premium feel.

Our most popular styles
At JS Woodcraft, some of our most popular choices reflect this trend:
Natural Oiled – a timeless classic that works in any interior
Minster – a warm, practical option with added character through darker grain detail
Ultra Grey – a modern take on grey, softened to suit today’s warmer interior styles

What’s trending right now:
Natural and warm tones = timeless and versatile
Wide planks & long boards = more open, high-end feel
Herringbone patterns = classic feature that never dates
Matte and natural finishes = more realistic and practical
Our recommendation
The most popular choice today is a natural or warm-toned oak with a matte finish, as it offers a timeless look that won’t go out of style

Question 15

Do light or dark floors show more dirt and scratches?

Accepted Answer

Both light and dark floors have their advantages, but they show dirt and wear in different ways.
Dark floors

Dark flooring tends to show dust, pet hair, and light debris more easily, especially in bright rooms with lots of natural light. Scratches can also be more noticeable as they often appear lighter against the darker surface.
Light floors

Light flooring is generally better at hiding dust and small scratches, making it a more forgiving option for everyday living. However, it can show dirt, mud, or stains more clearly, particularly in high-traffic areas.

What’s the most practical option?
Mid-tone floors are often the most practical choice, as they help disguise both dust and dirt while still offering a timeless look.
Colours that feature a darker grain or added contrast are especially forgiving, as they naturally break up the surface and help mask everyday wear.
For example:
Minster
Ultra Grey
Strensall

These styles are very popular as they combine practicality with a strong, characterful finish.

Our recommendation
If you have pets, children, or a busy household, lighter or mid-tone floors are usually the best option as they are more forgiving and easier to maintain day to day.

Question 16

Can I mix different widths or patterns in one space?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. Mixing different plank widths or combining patterns is a great way to create a unique, bespoke floor.

Using multiple widths (for example 100mm, 140mm, and 180mm) adds natural variation and character, giving the floor a more traditional or reclaimed look. This works particularly well in larger spaces where the variation can be fully appreciated.

You can also combine different patterns, such as plank flooring in one area and herringbone in another. This is a popular choice for creating contrast between spaces—like using herringbone in a hallway and planks in a living area—while keeping the same colour and finish for a consistent overall look.

Things to consider
Keep the same colour and finish to maintain flow between areas
Use borders or feature strips to define transitions between patterns
Plan layouts carefully to ensure the design feels intentional

Our recommendation
Mixing widths or patterns is a great way to create a high-end, personalised floor that stands out from standard options. At JS Woodcraft, all of our flooring is made to order, allowing you to mix widths, patterns, colours, and textures to create a completely bespoke design.

Question 17

Can you match an existing floor?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we can often match existing flooring, especially if you are looking to extend into another room.
However, there are a few important factors to consider. Over time, your current floor will have mellowed and changed colour naturally, meaning a new floor may not be an exact match straight away.

What helps us match your floor?
An offcut sample of your existing flooring
Details of the original product (if known)
Photos of the floor in natural lighting
This allows us to get as close as possible in both colour and texture.

What should you expect?
Even when using the same process and colour, there may be slight variation between batches, as wood is a natural product. Any new flooring will also mellow over time and begin to blend in with the existing floor.

We do not offer a full colour matching service for orders under 50m². However, we may already have a colour within our range that will closely complement your existing floor.

Question 18

What’s the difference between the Elite, Core, and Contract ranges?

Accepted Answer

Our ranges are designed to suit different budgets and project types, while still maintaining the high quality you expect from JS Woodcraft.

Importantly, there is no compromise in the quality of the finish—all of our flooring is finished in-house at our Yorkshire factory. The difference between the ranges is the base board and specification, not the finish itself.

Elite Range
Our premium range, offering the highest specification and widest choice.
Long lengths (up to 2.8m)
Wide boards (up to 300mm)
Rustic, Nature or Prime grade options available
Greater variation of bespoke finishes and designs
Ideal for high-end residential projects and customers looking for a truly standout floor.

Core Range
Our most popular and versatile range, balancing quality and affordability.
Available in plank, herringbone, chevron, and Mansion Weave
Great choice of colours and finishes
Suitable for most residential projects
A perfect all-rounder for both style and value.

Contract Range
Designed for larger projects and commercial use, where durability and cost efficiency are key.
More standardised sizing available in 190mm plank)
Cost-effective solution
Durable finishes suitable for high-traffic areas
Ideal for developers, commercial spaces, and larger-scale installations.

All ranges can be finished in your chosen colour and texture, allowing you to achieve a consistent look regardless of budget.

Frequently asked questions