Before deciding on the final material and design of your hardwood floors, there are many considerations that you must take in thinking. Of course the budget is a major factor but with the wide range of products and services, you will surely be caught in between a lot of options.
Below is a discussion of the strengths and weaknesses of timber and more importantly, the most important factors that you must take into consideration before making your final decision.
Timber flooring has been the choice of many homeowners for its elegant appeal. At the same time, its solidity is supreme as compared to other hardwood floor materials. And when installed by highly competent experts like those in Sydney Timber Flooring, only the best outcomes that will stand the test of time can be expected.
Timber is hygroscopic, making it prone to shrinkage or expansion depending on its surroundings. It has a natural ability to take up and give off moisture in its surroundings. This has further implications as it may lead to gaps in the floor when the wood shrinks depending on the season. The rate by which the shrinkage occurs depends on the species chosen and the stabilization that is applied. The average moisture must be kept between 9% and 14%.
There is a wide range of timber that a client can choose from. Below is some of the most important information that will guide you in your choice of timber. It is important that you have some idea so that you will know exactly what you want the installers to deliver.
- Timber Colour – There is really no technical basis when it comes to the colour as it will be totally based on one’s preferences. It is, however, important to remember that the colour of the material is still subject to change after sanding and the application of the final coating. Also, time will have some effect on the over-all appearance of the floor.
- Timber Hardness – Australian species comes in a range of 3.5 to 14 when it comes to hardness. Your choice should depend on your expected traffic and the materials that will come in contact with the surface once installed.
- Timber Features and Grades – This aspect also plays a big role in the aesthetics as the grade would refer to the amount of veins, knots, etc. that can be found in every board.
Solid Timber Floors have long been trusted by homeowners. However, they do not just perform as optimally as they would. They require proper handling, storage, installation and maintenance so that it will retain its quality and elegance through the years