Published on 3rd of Jan., 2025 

When you start looking for new flooring in South Yorkshire, the first thing you usually check is the price per square metre (m2) of the material. However, the cost of the planks or tiles is only one part of the story.

If you’ve received two wildly different quotes for the same room, it’s usually down to what’s happening underneath the floor. Here are the main factors that influence the final price of your flooring installation.

1. Subfloor Preparation: The Most Critical Step

You can buy the most expensive Karndean or Amtico in the world, but if the floor underneath is uneven, the finish will look poor and could even fail.

• Screeding & Levelling: If your concrete base is pitted or uneven, we need to apply a smoothing compound (screed). This ensures a "mirror-flat" finish, which is essential for LVT. Primer should also always be applied to dry concrete floors or you could risk the screed blowing.
• Ply-boarding: For timber subfloors, we install high-grade flooring plywood to create a stable, flat surface that won't move or squeak.
• Moisture Barriers: In some older homes around Sheffield, we may need to apply a Damp Proof Membrane (DPM) to stop moisture from the ground ruining your new adhesive bond.

2. The Complexity of the Pattern

The layout you choose significantly changes the labour time required.

• Straight Plank: The quickest and most cost-effective to install.
• Herringbone & Chevron: These "parquet" style patterns are incredibly popular in 2026, but they require much more skill and take roughly twice as long to fit. There is also more "wastage" (off-cuts), meaning you’ll need to order about 10–15% more material than the actual room size.

3. Removal and Disposal

Don't forget the old floor!

• Taking up old carpet is usually quick, but removing uplifted ceramic tiles or old Bitumen is a heavy, dusty job that requires specialist tools and disposal fees.
• We always recommend being clear on whether "uplift and disposal" is included in your quote so you aren't left with a pile of old carpet on your driveway!

4. Room Shape and Obstacles

A perfectly square room is a fitter’s dream. However, if your room has:

• Intricate radiator pipes
• Fitted kitchen island units
• Fireplace hearths
• Multiple doorways ...it requires significantly more "intricate cutting," which adds to the labour time.

The Verdict: Why the Cheapest Quote Isn't Always the Best

In the flooring world, you usually get what you pay for. A "cheap" quote often ignores the subfloor preparation or uses low-grade adhesives.

At Census International, we provide a detailed breakdown so you know exactly where your money is going: into a floor that looks stunning and stays flat for decades.

Looking for an honest, transparent quote for your home in Sheffield? Get in touch today for a free site survey.