Ply overlay subfloors across SE9
Old floorboards in a 1930s bay-fronted semis with a scattering of post-war infill 1930s bay-fronted semis in New Eltham are the wrong base for LVT — every dip and gap telegraphs through. 6mm ply overlay, ring-shank nailed on a 150mm grid, gives you a mirror-flat base that doesn't squeak.
What plywood overlay subfloor prep in New Eltham actually involves
Old floorboards in a 1930s bay-fronted semis with a scattering of post-war infill 1930s bay-fronted semis in New Eltham are the wrong base for LVT — every dip and gap telegraphs through. 6mm ply overlay, ring-shank nailed on a 150mm grid, gives you a mirror-flat base that doesn't squeak.
Original pine boards over joists — same story as neighbouring Sidcup, so ply overlay before LVT is the norm.
Three things that decide a subfloor prep fit in New Eltham
- Stair nosings
Older New Eltham stairs often have shallow treads — we re-cut grippers rather than force a standard kit.
- Doorway transitions
Most 1930s bay-fronted semis doorways here need a bevelled bar rather than a Z-bar to clear the carpet next door.
- Underlay choice
8mm crumb is the usual call for New Eltham bedrooms; 10mm PU on stairs to stop bounce.
- 6mm or 12mm ply overlay for old floorboard subfloors
- Ring-shank nailed on 150mm grid — no squeaks
- Perfect base for LVT, laminate, vinyl and wood
- Alternative to full screed on suspended floors
Bottom line: LVT over old floorboards is a mistake. Ply overlay first, LVT second.
"Ply overlay across a 1930s bay-fronted semis with a scattering of post-war infill first floor in Avery Hill — squeaks gone, LVT laid flat." — New Eltham customer
Postcodes: SE9 · Routes: the A20 · Common build: 1930s bay-fronted semis.
Covering Avery Hill, Southwood, Green Lane.
Plywood Overlay Subfloor Prep jobs we've finished nearby
Plywood Overlay Subfloor Prep in New Eltham — common questions
Yes — ply overlay is fit-ready the same day. No moisture cure required (unlike latex screed).
6–12mm plus underlay for the new decorative floor — usually 10–20mm total. Doors may need trimming, we factor that in on the New Eltham visit.
Yes — ring-shank nails on 150mm grid pin the ply and the boards below to the joists. Standard on every SE9 overlay job.
6mm for most residential rooms; 12mm where joists are wide or boards are particularly uneven. Standard 6mm on Victorian bedroom fits in Avery Hill.