Old buildings have a charm all their own. However, anyone wanting to install a new parquet floor faces particular challenges: uneven subfloors, sound insulation requirements and historical building fabric.
Challenge 1: The subfloor in old buildings
Wooden floorboards as subfloor
Old wooden floorboards can serve as a subfloor for new parquet – if they are firm, dry, and load-bearing. Screw down loose floorboards beforehand. Fill in uneven areas with levelling compound.
Screed in old buildings
Tap test: If the screed sounds hollow, it must be repaired or replaced. Measure residual moisture – often more critical in old buildings than in new builds.
Challenge 2: Sound insulation
Old buildings often have less sound insulation. High-quality impact sound insulation is particularly important. For high requirements: plan for a sound-decoupled subconstruction.
Challenge 3: Preserve or replace old floorboards?
Original pine or spruce floorboards can often be renovated: sanding, re-oiling, filling cracks, screwing down squeaky areas. The result is authentic and durable.
Which parquet is suitable for old buildings?
Multi-layer parquet: First choice in old buildings – dimensionally stable, forgiving of unevenness, easy to lay.
Narrow solid wood planks:
Under 8 cm width – more dimensionally stable than wide planks.
Wide solid wood planks:
With caution – tend to move on uneven subfloors.
Practical tips
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Always measure the residual moisture of the subfloor
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Plan a budget buffer – old buildings bring surprises
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Engage a specialist company with experience in old buildings
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For listed buildings: clarify with the authorities beforehand
Old building floors are a passion at Kaditzianer. We offer parquet in widths and formats that suit the character of old apartments – from rustic oak planks to classic herringbone. Visit us in Dresden or Leipzig.
