There are many aspects to consider when choosing a timber floor, whether it be a floating floor or solid timber there are many different colours and widths to choose from.
Solid timber flooring is traditionally 19mm thick to install onto anything from joists to a concrete slab or 13mm thick to be installed onto an existing sub floor only.

When deciding which solid timber floor to buy there is also the grade to be taken into consideration. There are three main grades of timber, all graded to Australian standards
Select grade has minimal feature but an unblemished look
standard grade has subtle features and is the middle grade
character grade features knots, gum veins, branch and insect markings. this grade is often more affordable

Frequently asked questions

Q.  What is engineered flooring?

A. Engineered flooring or floating floors are made of a pre coated natural timber veneer of approximately 4mm glued to laminated ply boards. Engineered flooring can be installed over virtually any sub floor provided it is flat and structurally sound. As these floors have a timber veneer they can be sanded 1-2 times if they become very scratched. There is a big range of engineered floors to choose from in many different species and colours which makes them a quick and easy alternative to solid timber flooring.

Q. Why choose a solid timber floor over an engineered floor?

A. Solid timber flooring can last a lifetime if looked after and can be sanded many times so is a lot more hard wearing and durable compared with other floor coverings. Solid timber is also fixed to your sub floor which makes it more sound than floating floors.

Q. Will water damage my floor?

A. Small amounts of water on timber floors is fine but a leak from kitchen appliances or a major spill could cause the boards to cup or expand.

Q. Will my floors scratch easily?

A. Some species of timber will scratch a lot more easily than others for example pine is soft and you will find that heel marks,scratches etc will be very common whereas a species like iron bark is a hardwood and will hold up a lot better when it comes to everyday traffic. This is something which should be considered when deciding which floor to invest in.

Maintenance of timber floors

To maintain the look of a new timber floor it is essential that a maintenance program is followed.
Mats should be placed inside and outside external doorways. Protective pads should be installed onto the base of furniture legs to avoid scratching or damaging the surface.
Keep the floor free of dust and grit but avoid using harsh bristle brushes or brooms.

Clean the floor with a damp cloth using a non abrasive neutral cleaner. When cleaning timber floors keep moisture to a minimum and never wet mop a timber floor.