Understanding Timber Flooring Types
| Type Characteristics | Description | Best Application | Installation Method | Maintenance Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Solid Timber | Pure hardwood construction | Traditional homes | Direct fix or nail down | High maintenance |
| Engineered Timber | Layered construction | Modern builds | Floating or direct stick | Moderate maintenance |
| Floating Systems | Click-lock design | Renovations | Float over substrate | Low maintenance |
Timber flooring comes in three main categories: solid timber, engineered timber, and floating timber floors. Each type offers distinct advantages and considerations, with solid timber providing traditional durability, engineered timber offering enhanced stability, and floating floors providing versatility and easier installation.
Solid Timber Flooring
- Made from single pieces of hardwood timber
- Typical thickness: 19mm to 22mm
- Can be sanded and refinished multiple times
- Popular species: Blackbutt, Spotted Gum
- Best suited for ground-level installation
- Requires professional installation
Engineered Timber Flooring
- Consists of real timber veneer (0.6mm to 6mm) on stabilized core
- More resistant to moisture and temperature changes
- Compatible with underfloor heating
- Can be installed as floating floor or direct-stick
- Limited refinishing capability (depends on veneer thickness)
Floating Timber Systems
- Click-lock installation method
- Can be installed over existing flooring
- More affordable than traditional solid timber
- Faster installation process
- Good acoustic properties
Timber Flooring Costs in Australia
The cost of timber flooring in Australia ranges from $50 to $150 per square metre for materials, with installation adding $30 to $60 per square metre depending on the type and complexity of installation.
Material Costs Breakdown
- Solid Timber: $100-150 per square metre
- Engineered Timber: $70-130 per square metre
- Installation Costs: $30-60 per square metre
- Additional Costs:
- Subfloor preparation: $20-40 per square metre
- Removal of existing flooring: $15-25 per square metre
- Skirting boards: $15-20 per linear metre
Installation Methods and Requirements
Timber flooring installation requires careful preparation and can be done through direct-stick, floating floor, or nail-down methods depending on the flooring type and subfloor conditions.
Subfloor Preparation
- Ensure surface is clean, dry, and level
- Maximum moisture content: 5.5% for concrete
- Level tolerance: 3mm over 3 metres
- Remove existing floor coverings
- Install moisture barriers where necessary
Installation Process
- Acclimate timber for 48-72 hours
- Install moisture barrier if required
- Lay first row with expansion gaps
- Continue installation following manufacturer pattern
- Install trim and transitions
- Allow 24 hours before heavy furniture placement
Maintenance and Care
| Maintenance Task | Frequency Required | Tools Needed | Professional Help | Warning Signs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daily Sweeping | Daily/As needed | Soft broom | Not required | Visible dirt/debris |
| Damp Mopping | Weekly | Microfiber mop | Not required | Stubborn marks |
| Deep Clean | Quarterly | Specialist cleaner | Optional | Dull appearance |
| Surface Inspection | Monthly | Visual check | Not required | Scratches/dents |
| Refinishing Assessment | Annually | None | Required | Wear through finish |
| Humidity Check | Seasonal | Moisture meter | Optional | Cupping/gaps |
| Polish/Wax | As needed | Applicator | Recommended | Loss of shine |
| Repair Evaluation | When damaged | Various | Required | Deep scratches |
Regular maintenance of timber flooring includes daily cleaning, prompt spill cleanup, and periodic professional maintenance to ensure longevity and preserve appearance.
Daily Care
- Sweep or vacuum regularly
- Use clean, slightly damp mop for deeper cleaning
- Clean spills immediately
- Use felt pads under furniture
- Maintain indoor humidity between 45-60%
Professional Maintenance
- Sand and polish every 7-10 years for solid timber
- Light sand and recoat every 3-5 years
- Professional deep cleaning annually
- Repair scratches and dents as needed
Environmental Considerations
Timber flooring can be an environmentally conscious choice when sourced responsibly and properly maintained throughout its lifecycle.
Sustainable Options
- FSC-certified timber
- Recycled timber flooring
- Australian native species from managed forests
- Engineered timber using less hardwood
- Low-VOC finishes and adhesives
Climate and Regional Considerations
Australia’s diverse climate zones require specific considerations when selecting and installing timber flooring to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Climate-Specific Guidelines
- Coastal Areas: Use more stable species and enhanced moisture protection
- Hot/Dry Regions: Allow for greater expansion gaps
- Humid Regions: Choose moisture-resistant species and finishes
- Air-Conditioned Spaces: Consider impact on timber movement
- Below-Grade Installation: Select engineered products
Design and Style Selection
Timber flooring offers various design options that can enhance your home’s aesthetic while maintaining functionality.
Design Elements
Random length
Board Width: 85mm to 180mm standard
Surface Finish: Matte to high gloss
Color Tones: Light, medium, dark, or mixed
Grain Patterns: Straight, figured, or mixed
Installation Patterns:
Traditional straight lay
Herringbone
Chevron
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does timber flooring take to install professionally?
Professional timber flooring installation typically takes 2-4 days for an average-sized home (80-100m²), including acclimation time. Complex installations, extensive subfloor preparation, or large areas may require 5-7 days.
What’s the difference between floating and direct-stick installation?
Floating installation involves connecting boards that “float” over the subfloor without adhesive, while direct-stick permanently bonds the timber to the subfloor with adhesive. Floating is generally cheaper and faster but may have a slightly different feel underfoot.
Can timber flooring be installed over existing tiles?
Engineered timber flooring can be installed over existing tiles using the floating method, provided the tiles are stable, level, and properly sealed. However, solid timber flooring requires direct fixing to a suitable subfloor.
How soon can you walk on newly installed timber flooring?
Light foot traffic is possible 24 hours after installation for floating floors, but direct-stick installations require 48-72 hours before furniture placement and regular foot traffic. Full cure time for adhesives is typically 7 days.
What’s the best timber flooring for homes with pets?
Engineered timber with a high-grade wear layer (minimum 3mm) and a matte or textured finish offers the best durability for homes with pets. Look for harder species like Spotted Gum or Blackbutt with an AC4 or higher wear rating.
Does timber flooring affect property value?
Quality timber flooring typically increases property value by 3-5% and can offer an ROI of 70-80% on installation costs. Engineered timber options particularly appeal to modern buyers due to their durability and eco-friendly characteristics.
References:
Aloisio, A., Pasca, D. P., De Santis, Y., Hillberger, T., Giordano, P. F., Rosso, M. M., Tomasi, R., Limongelli, M. P., & Bedon, C. (2023). Vibration issues in timber structures: A state-of-the-art review. Journal of Building Engineering, 76, 107098. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jobe.2023.107098
Bergman, R., Gu, H., Falk, R., & Napier, T. (2010). Proceedings of the International Convention of Society of Wood Science and Technology and United Nations Economic Commission for Europe -Timber Committee. https://www.fpl.fs.usda.gov/documnts/pdf2010/fpl_2010_bergman002.pdf
Hassan, O. A. B., Öberg, F., & Gezelius, E. (2019). Cross-laminated timber flooring and concrete slab flooring: A comparative study of structural design, economic and environmental consequences. Journal of Building Engineering, 26, 100881. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jobe.2019.100881
