Replacement floorboards

[aquamarine1]

Hi, we have original (1930s) floorboards in our front room. I love the look but these ones are definitely down. Has anyone had floorboards completely replaced and were you happy? I want them finished for other oil but happy to go with something more hard wearing if needed.

What do you mean by "definitely down?"

Sorry - typo. I meant done, as in need replaced.

1930's floorboards are pretty good and last a long time. What's wrong with yours? has a plumber been hacking them about with an axe?

They've been sanded back a few times so are very thin and W even. Previous owners put duct tape over gaps that we didn't spot as under furniture.

grr, i wrote a long reply and it's disappeared.

short answer:

find an experienced (wrinkly) local carpenter who can fit T&G softwood floorboards. Have them screwed down, not nailed . Renew and lag any pipes or cables while you have easy access. Put mineral wool between the joists for draughts and insulation.

example pics

this is a good time to replace any skirtings or architraves if you need to, the carpenter can do it. The edge board at the sides can have the tongue cut off or reversed so it can easily be lifted to get at cables.

mineral wool is supported on mesh such as galvanised chicken wire stapled to the joists.

clean out all rubbish under the floor and open up the airbricks. Run broadband and alarm wiring as well as any cables for sockets. You will never have such easy access again.

You can include access traps for plumbing etc as long as you tell the carpenter before he starts work. Yo probably can't see the access trap in my first pic. I've used several different colours of wood dye to give a random effect which hides cuts and joins.

If you can't afford floorboards, flooring ply will do. It is essential to put struts under all unsupported joints, or they will flex.

please don't use chipboard. Builders like it because it's cheap.

Thanks so much for this! Such a comprehensive reply. Super helpful - I had no clue.
I have a builder coming to look and will mention your points (screws etc).