A family-run flooring and build contractor that you can trust
ABOUT US
Based in Portsmouth and proudly serving homes and businesses across the South of England, we’ve spent the last 15+ years building a reputation for quality, reliability and the kind of personal touch you only get from a family-run business.
With a skilled team and a fleet of three fully-equipped vans, we’re ready to tackle projects of all shapes and sizes. Whether it’s fitting high-quality flooring, carrying out expert building work or offering trusted advice on how to get the most from your space.
Over the years, we have expanded from being a sole-trader to merging two seperate buisness together to form Flooring & Build By A. Friend.
BACK TO THE START...
In 2006, Alan Friend left St Edmund’s School and began working as a labourer for a local company in Portsmouth.
Eager to learn and driven by a strong work ethic, he quickly developed a passion for the trade – particularly flooring.
Over the years, Alan gained hands-on experience across a wide range of projects, building up his skills and reputation for quality, reliability and care …
SOLE TRADER
… At 23, Alan’s now-wife Georgie encouraged him to take a leap of faith and set up his own company.
Recognising his talent, dedication and growing reputation, she saw the potential for something bigger – a business that could reflect not just his skill, but his personal values and commitment to doing things the right way.
With Georgie’s support and the backing of close friends and family, Alan took the plunge and in 2013 he invested in his first van, gathered his tools and officially became self-employed …
LTD COMPANY
After just a few years of hard work, Alan made the decision to take the next big step and officially registering Flooring By A. Friend as a limited company.
This move marked a turning point, transforming what began as a one-man operation into a trusted and professional business with a growing reputation.
Flooring By A. Friend quickly became a go-to contractor in the city and the firm earned the trust not only of homeowners, but also of leading contractors, housing associations and charities across the UK as the business built a strong name based on reliability, craftsmanship, and lasting relationships.
BUILD BY A FRIEND
As Flooring By A. Friend continued to go from strength to strength, it became clear that there was an opportunity to offer even more to customers who valued the same trusted service and quality workmanship.
In 2021, Build By A. Friend was founded.
What began as an extension of the original business quickly grew into a thriving company in its own right.
MERGED BOTH TOGETHER
After operating as separate businesses for two years, Alan and his team recognised the benefits of merging the two companies to provide customers with the best, most seamless experience possible.
Since the merge and rebranding as Flooring & Build By A. Friend, Alan has continued to deliver exceptional service, supported by a trusted team of skilled flooring and building professionals that clients know they can rely on.
MEET OUR TEAM
At Flooring & Build By A. Friend, we provide a 5-star service and ensure all of our customers are happy with the final result. From the initial consultation to finishing the final instulation of your job, each one of our team members are here to help and make sure that you get what you wanted.
ALAN
FRIEND
Founder & Director
GEORGIE FRIEND
Office Manager
HARRY FLETCHER
Floor Fitter
MASON WILSHAW
Floor Fitter