I'd say it depends on the wood as well. Square edged needs a good sand and fill before finish, bevelled edge a light sand. Ok not all suppliers...
done a few jobs where I have under cut the stone using a diamond blade in a Bepo (modified Bosh angle grinder) then fitted the wood underneath....
I would always sand, just like already said, grease from fitting bits of dirt and I have never come across an unfinished floor that feels uniform...
I'd say £60 (hope it was for fitting as well) is a bit steep for the pub floor this one is one that i did for a pub...
