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title: Our Story 
description: Hardly Floors has grown from a small family operation into one of the region’s most trusted names in flooring. A journey shaped by craftsmanship, dedication, an...
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Hardly Floors has grown from a small family operation into one of the region’s most trusted names in flooring. A journey shaped by craftsmanship, dedication, and a commitment to doing things the right way. From our early days supplying quality materials, to expanding into full installation services, to becoming a go‑to partner for homeowners and commercial clients alike, each chapter has built on the last. Today, we continue to evolve while staying true to the values that started it all honesty, reliability, and pride in every floor we lay.

### Timeline

1900's

## [](#)

The earliest chapter of our family business story began in the early 1900s, when our great-grandfather, Patrick Lee, ran a grocery shop. Pictured in 1909 alongside his siblings Maggie and Hugh, his entrepreneurial spirit laid the foundation for generations to come. ![1909](https://hardlyfloors.ie/images/story/1909.png)

 

 

1960's

## [](#)

Our family’s history in the flooring trade began in the 1960s with our grandfather, Tom Lee, who became an agent for leading vinyl manufacturers Armstrong and GAF. ![tom lee](https://hardlyfloors.ie/images/story/tom-lee.png)

 

 

1974

## [](#)

In 1974, Lee Distribution Ltd was founded and quickly established itself as a trusted name in Phibsboro, Dublin.

![1974](https://hardlyfloors.ie/images/story/1974.png)



 

 

1977

## [](#)

In 1977, our father, John Lee, took over the business and expanded our wholesale distribution network to retailers nationwide.

![1977](https://hardlyfloors.ie/images/story/1977.png)



 

 

1980

## [](#)

In the 1980s, the business relocated to JFK Industrial Estate in Dublin 12, where we continue to operate to this day. ![1980](https://hardlyfloors.ie/images/story/1980.png)

 

 

1990's

## [](#)

In the 1990s, we broadened our product range to include carpets and laminate flooring. ![1990](https://hardlyfloors.ie/images/story/1990.jpg)

 

 

2007

## [](#)

In 2007, we expanded into hardwood flooring under the name Hardly Floors Ltd, further strengthening our portfolio and enabling us to offer a complete range of flooring solutions. ![1990](https://hardlyfloors.ie/images/story/1990.png)

 

 

Today

## [](#)

Today, as a proud third-generation family business, we continue to build on decades of experience — providing quality flooring products, expert advice, and trusted service to customers across Ireland. ![2007](https://hardlyfloors.ie/images/story/2007.png)

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