Flooring is an important step in completing a new home. Selecting tiles, vinyl, laminate or another finish is only one part of the process. Understanding the technical terms used during flooring installation can help you make better decisions, compare quotations and avoid problems after the work is complete.
Before beginning your project, familiarise yourself with these eight flooring terms.
1. Subfloor
The subfloor is the surface beneath your finished flooring. It may be a concrete slab, screed or an existing floor that will receive a new finish.
A stable subfloor is essential because uneven, weak or damp surfaces can affect the appearance and performance of the installed floor. The surface should be inspected for cracks, loose sections, moisture and level differences before installation. Suimas Interior Designers considers the condition of the existing floor when planning flooring projects.
2. Underlayment
Underlayment is a thin layer placed between the subfloor and certain flooring materials. It is commonly used with laminate floor systems.
Depending on the product, underlayment can help reduce minor surface imperfections, improve underfoot comfort, limit impact noise and provide a moisture-control layer where specified.
It is important to choose an underlayment compatible with the flooring manufacturer’s installation requirements. It is not a substitute for correcting a badly uneven or damaged subfloor.
3. Screed
Screed is a cement-based layer applied over a concrete base to create a suitable surface for the final floor finish. It can help achieve the required level and provide a consistent base for tiles, vinyl and other flooring materials.
Poor screeding can lead to uneven floors, visible differences in finished levels and problems with tile installation. The screed must be properly prepared and allowed to cure according to the material and project requirements.
If you are planning a wider home improvement project, you may also find our guide to interior design costs and pricing in Kenya useful when preparing your budget.
4. Levelling Compound
A levelling compound is a specially formulated material used to correct minor surface irregularities and create a smoother, more even base.
It is particularly useful when preparing floors for vinyl, SPC and other finishes that require a smooth installation surface. The product must be selected according to the depth of correction required and the condition of the substrate.
5. Expansion Gap
An expansion gap is a small space left around the edges of certain flooring installations to allow for natural movement.
Materials such as laminate and some floating floors can expand or contract as temperature and humidity conditions change. Without the recommended clearance around walls, door frames and fixed objects, the floor may buckle or lift. The required gap depends on the flooring product and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
6. Grout
Grout is the material used to fill the joints between tiles. It helps create a finished appearance and prevents dirt from collecting in open spaces between tiles.
Grout colour can influence the overall appearance of a room. A matching shade creates a more continuous look, while a contrasting colour makes the tile pattern more noticeable.
The grout type and joint width should suit the tile material, location and expected use. Wet areas may require products with appropriate water and stain resistance.
7. Adhesive
Flooring adhesive is used to bond certain materials to the prepared substrate. Tile adhesive, for example, secures tiles to the floor, while specialist adhesives are used for particular vinyl and other floor finishes.
Not all adhesives are suitable for every flooring material. The choice depends on the substrate, moisture conditions, material type and manufacturer’s specifications.
Using the wrong adhesive can result in loose tiles, lifting edges or installation failure.
8. Skirting
Skirting is the finishing strip fitted along the bottom of a wall where it meets the floor. It covers the joint between the wall and flooring and provides a neat transition. Its colour and profile should complement the flooring and interior design.
For a coordinated finish, consider how skirting will work with your door frames, wall colours and other decorative details.
Why Professional Flooring Preparation Matters
Many flooring problems begin before the visible finish is installed. An unsuitable adhesive, poorly levelled base, incorrect expansion clearance or inadequate moisture preparation can affect the final result.
Suimas Interior Designers provides floor installation services, including tiles, vinyl/SPC, laminate, engineered wood and epoxy flooring. We can help assess the existing surface, recommend suitable flooring options and coordinate preparation and installation.
Explore our floor installation services and read our guide to choosing the best flooring for Kenyan homes.
For additional inspiration and planning, you can also explore our flooring and interior design pricing guide, and floor installation options.
Areas We Serve
Suimas Interior Designers provides residential and commercial interior design, renovation and finishing services in Nairobi and selected locations across Kenya.
Within Nairobi and its surrounding areas, we serve Westlands, Lavington, Karen, Kilimani, Kileleshwa, Runda, Muthaiga, Gigiri, Loresho, Lang’ata, Spring Valley, Lower Kabete, Ruaka, Utawala and Ruiru.
We also undertake suitable projects in Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, Eldoret, Naivasha, Meru, Thika and Machakos, among other locations. Contact us to confirm availability for your project.
Get Professional Flooring Installation Support
Planning to install new flooring or replace an existing floor? Suimas Interior Designers can help you choose suitable materials and coordinate the preparation and installation process.
Call or WhatsApp 0717 044 443 to discuss your flooring requirements and request a quotation. Share your location, approximate floor area and preferred flooring material to help us understand your project.
