How to Identify High-Quality Timber Flooring

Choosing the right timber flooring for your space is a significant decision that requires careful consideration of various factors. High-quality timber flooring not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your home but also provides durability and long-term value. In this guide, we will explore the essential elements to consider when selecting timber flooring, focusing on factors such as the country of origin, thickness of the lamella, overall thickness, dimensions, finishing processes, timber grading, certifications, and warranties. Understanding these aspects will help you make an informed decision and ensure that your investment stands the test of time.

Country of Origin

The country of origin is a critical factor in determining the quality of timber flooring. Timber sourced from countries with stringent forestry practices, such as France, Germany, and Austria, is known for its superior quality. For example, French oak is valued for its tight grain, large amount of grain movement and consistent colour, making it a popular choice for both modern and traditional interiors. Timber from these regions is often harvested sustainably, ensuring that the wood is mature and robust. Choosing timber from countries with less rigorous standards may result in lower quality flooring, which can affect its durability and appearance over time.

Thickness of Lamella

The lamella refers to the top layer of engineered timber flooring, which is typically made from hardwood. A thicker lamella, ideally between 3mm to 6mm, is crucial for the floor’s longevity. A thicker top layer allows for multiple sandings and refinishes, extending the floor’s lifespan significantly. For instance, a 4mm lamella can be sanded up to three times, ensuring that your floor maintains its appearance for decades. In contrast, a thinner lamella may limit the number of refinishes, reducing the flooring’s overall durability.

Overall Thickness

The overall thickness of engineered timber flooring plays a significant role in its stability and durability. Floors with a thickness of 14mm to 20mm are more resistant to changes in temperature and humidity, making them ideal for the New Zealand climate. Thicker flooring provides better insulation and soundproofing, offering a more solid feel underfoot. Additionally, it contributes to the structural integrity of the floor, reducing the risk of warping or bending over time.

Engineered timber floor types cross-section

Width and Length

The width and length of timber planks can greatly impact the overall look and feel of your flooring. Wider planks, ranging from 180mm to 300mm, create a sense of space and luxury, while longer planks reduce the number of visible joints, offering a seamless appearance. However, it is essential to ensure that these planks are well-milled and stable, as longer lengths can be more prone to warping if not properly manufactured.

Lacquer Curing Process and Lacquer Used

The lacquer curing process is crucial in determining the durability and maintenance needs of your timber flooring. High-quality lacquers, such as those cured using UV or LED technologies, provide a strong, wear-resistant surface that protects the wood from daily wear and tear. The process involves applying multiple layers of lacquer, each cured under UV light, which hardens the finish and enhances the wood’s natural beauty. The type of lacquer used, whether water-based or solvent-based, also affects the floor’s appearance and performance. Water-based lacquers are generally more environmentally friendly, emitting fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and improving indoor air quality.

Oil Used and Oil Curing Process

Oiled finishes offer a more natural look and feel, enhancing the wood’s grain and texture. The type of oil used and the curing process significantly impact the floor’s durability and maintenance. High-quality oils, like hardwax oil, penetrate deeply into the wood, offering protection from within. The curing process may take several days, but the result is a beautiful, easy-to-maintain floor. Regular oil reapplication is necessary to keep the floor in top condition, but this also allows for spot repairs without the need to refinish the entire floor.

close up of dark brown oiled wood floor

Timber Grading

Timber grading refers to the visual characteristics of the wood, including colour variation, knots, and grain patterns. High-quality timber flooring typically falls into prime, select, or rustic grades. Prime grade timber has minimal knots and a uniform appearance, making it ideal for sleek, modern interiors. Select grade offers more variation, with some knots and colour differences, while rustic grade features more prominent knots and natural imperfections, giving the floor a more traditional look. Higher grades, like prime, are often more stable and less prone to movement, providing a long-lasting, high-quality finish.

Certifications

Certifications are essential for ensuring that your timber flooring meets environmental and quality standards. Look for certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) or PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification), which guarantee that the timber has been sourced from responsibly managed forests. These certifications ensure that your flooring contributes to sustainable practices and has a minimal environmental impact. Additionally, certifications from independent testing bodies indicate that the flooring complies with international standards for durability, emissions, and safety.

Warranties

A comprehensive warranty is a sign of confidence in the product’s quality. High-quality timber flooring often comes with extensive warranties covering structural integrity, wear resistance, and finish durability. A warranty period of 20 to 30 years suggests that the manufacturer believes in the product’s longevity. Be sure to read the warranty details to understand what is covered, as this can also provide insights into the flooring’s expected performance.

Quality of Textural Wood Treatments

Textural treatments like bandsawing, brushing, or hand-scraping add unique character to timber flooring, enhancing its natural beauty. These treatments should be executed with precision to ensure they do not compromise the wood’s integrity. High-quality treatments will highlight the wood’s grain and natural features without weakening the plank or creating inconsistencies in the finish. Look for uniformity and craftsmanship in these treatments, as poorly executed techniques can lead to uneven wear and reduced longevity.

Additionally, these treatments usually depend on specialised processes to look authentic.  An authentically executed texture treatment will make all the difference when it somes to the look and feel of your flooring.

oiled herringbone timber floor in open kitchen and dining room with high ceiling

Quality Factors and how they Impact Pricing:

 

Factor Description Impact on Price
Country of Origin Refers to where the timber is sourced. Countries like France and Germany are known for high-quality timber. Higher quality and sustainability standards in countries like France and Germany typically result in a higher price.
Thickness of Lamella The top layer of engineered flooring, usually made of hardwood. A thicker lamella increases the price due to the ability to refinish multiple times, adding longevity and durability.
Overall Thickness Total thickness of the engineered flooring, including all layers. Thicker overall flooring generally commands a higher price due to increased stability, insulation, and durability.
Width and Length The dimensions of the planks, with wider and longer planks being more desirable. Wider and longer planks are more expensive due to the larger, high-quality timber required and the premium aesthetic.
Lacquer Curing Process The method used to harden the lacquer finish, such as UV curing. Advanced curing processes like UV or LED increase the price due to the durability and enhanced finish they provide.
Lacquer Used The type of lacquer applied, including water-based or solvent-based options. High-quality lacquers, particularly low-VOC options, are more costly due to their environmental and health benefits.
Oil Used and Curing Process The type of oil applied for finishing and how it is cured. High-quality oils and longer curing processes increase costs due to the enhanced durability and finish they provide.
Timber Grading Visual and structural characteristics such as knots and grain patterns. Higher grades (e.g., prime) are more expensive due to their uniform appearance and higher structural stability.
Certifications Environmental and quality certifications such as FSC or PEFC. Certified products typically come at a premium due to the assurance of sustainability and adherence to strict standards.
Warranties The duration and coverage of the product’s warranty. Extended warranties increase the price as they reflect the manufacturer’s confidence in the product’s longevity.
Textural Wood Treatments Processes like brushing or hand-scraping that add texture to the wood. High-quality, handcrafted textural treatments are more costly due to the labour and skill involved in achieving them.
Reclaimed wood herringbone silver grey colour close up

When selecting timber flooring in Auckland or anywhere else, understanding these key factors is crucial for making an informed decision. High-quality timber flooring offers not only aesthetic appeal but also durability and long-term value. By considering the country of origin, lamella thickness, overall thickness, dimensions, finishing processes, timber grading, certifications, warranties, and textural treatments, you can ensure that you are choosing a flooring solution that will stand the test of time.

For more insights into choosing the best engineered timber flooring and hardwood floors, feel free to explore our range of high-quality products. At Vienna Woods, we are committed to providing flooring solutions that combine beauty, durability, and sustainability.

By following these guidelines, you can confidently navigate the market for timber flooring in Auckland, ensuring that your investment enhances the beauty and value of your home.

Browse Quality Timber Flooring

The Discerning Difference: European Oak vs. American White Oak Flooring in New Zealand

Choosing the perfect timber floor can feel overwhelming. From the vast array of wood species to aesthetic considerations and performance needs, it’s a decision that requires careful thought. Today, we delve into the world of oak flooring, specifically comparing European oak and American white Oak, two titans of the hardwood flooring industry. Understanding these distinctions empowers you to make an informed decision for your New Zealand timber flooring project.

European Oak: Rich Character and Durability

European oak (Quercus robur) reigns supreme for its timeless appeal and exceptional resilience. Here’s a breakdown of its key characteristics:

  • Colour: European oak boasts a warm, honey-like medium brown colour, often slightly darker than its American counterpart [1].
  • Grain Pattern: This oak variety features a distinctive, wavy grain pattern with prominent knots and swirls, lending a touch of rustic charm [2]. In some instances, you might even encounter “burr,” a unique and eye-catching figuring [2].
  • Stability: European oak is renowned for its dimensional stability, making it a preferred choice for areas with fluctuating humidity levels like kitchens and bathrooms [3]. While pre-finished options are available, European oak is also commonly finished on-site in New Zealand to achieve a custom look and feel.

American White Oak: A Lighter Touch and Modern Appeal

Hailing from North America, American white oak (Quercus alba) offers a distinct aesthetic perfect for contemporary spaces. Let’s explore its defining features:

  • Colour: American white oak exhibits a lighter tan colour with occasional pinkish and yellow hues, creating a more subtle and modern look [2].
  • Grain Pattern: This species showcases a straighter, more uniform grain pattern, ideal for those seeking a clean and minimalist aesthetic [2].
  • Rot Resistance: American white oak is celebrated for its exceptional resistance to rot and decay due to its closed cellular structure [4]. American white oak is often pre-finished, but site-finishing is also an option. 

Here’s a table summarising the key differences:

 

Feature European Oak American White Oak
Colour Warm, honey-like medium brown Lighter tan with occasional pink/yellow hues
Grain Pattern Wavy, prominent knots and swirls Straighter, more uniform
Stability Excellent for areas with fluctuating humidity Good stability
Rot Resistance Good Excellent
Finishing (NZ) Pre-finished or site-finished Pre-finished or site-finished

 

Choosing the Right Oak for You:

Ultimately, the best oak variety for your project hinges on your desired aesthetic and performance needs.

  • European oak shines in traditional and rustic settings, and its exceptional stability makes it ideal for high-traffic areas and rooms with fluctuating humidity. The ability to achieve a custom finish on-site can also be a major advantage.
  • American white oak complements modern and minimalist design, and its superior rot resistance makes it well-suited for moisture-prone areas. Pre-finished options offer a quicker installation process.

Additional Considerations:

  • Hardness: Both European and American white oak are considered very hard and durable woods [5].
  • Price: European oak typically commands a higher price point compared to American white oak [1].

Beyond the Basics:

While European oak and American white oak represent the most commonly used oak varieties for flooring, there are other options to explore, each with its unique characteristics. Here are a few examples:

  • French Oak: Renowned for its beautiful knots and graining, perfect for rustic elegance [6].
  • English Oak: Offers a lighter colour spectrum compared to other European oaks, ideal for creating a bright and airy feel [6].
  • American Red Oak: Provides a reddish-brown hue, perfect for those seeking a warmer, more traditional look [7].

Understanding the distinctions between European oak and American white oak empowers you to make an informed decision for your timber flooring project in New Zealand. Whether you crave the rich character of European oak or the light sophistication of American white oak, both offer enduring beauty and exceptional performance.



Further Reading:

 

[1] Duffield Timber: European Oak vs. American White Oak: Colour, Properties & Uses 

[2] The Reclaimed Flooring Company: American Oak VS European Oak: Key Differences

[3] WOCA Woodcare: White Oak: What’s the Difference? 

[4] Castle Bespoke Flooring: European White Oak v/s American White Oak 



Browse Oak Flooring

Wood Cutting Techniques; What is the Best for Timber Flooring?

When it comes to creating luxury hardwood floors, the method of cutting timber plays a crucial role in determining the final appearance, durability, and performance of the flooring. There are several primary methods for cutting timber, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. In this article, we will explore the most common techniques used in the timber flooring industry: quarter sawn, rift sawn, plain sawn (also known as live sawn), and end grain. We’ll discuss each method in detail and outline their specific pros and cons, helping you make an informed choice for your next timber flooring project.

Plain Sawn (Live Sawn) Timber

Description: Plain sawn, also known as live sawn, is the most common and efficient method of cutting timber. The log is cut tangentially to the growth rings, resulting in a wide variety of grain patterns, including cathedral peaks and loops.

Pros:

  • Efficient and Cost-Effective: This method maximizes the yield from each log, making it more affordable.
  • Varied Grain Patterns: The diverse grain patterns can add a unique and dynamic aesthetic to flooring.

Cons:

  • Tendency to Warp: Plain sawn boards are more prone to warping and cupping due to the way the grain is exposed.
  • Less Stable: Compared to other methods, plain sawn timber can be less dimensionally stable, especially in environments with fluctuating humidity.
Diagram showing Cutting cross section for timber logs

Quarter Sawn Timber

Description: Quarter sawn timber is produced by first cutting the log into quarters and then sawing perpendicular to the growth rings. This method creates a linear grain pattern that is more uniform and less pronounced than plain sawn timber.

Pros:

  • Increased Stability: Quarter sawn boards are less likely to warp, cup, or twist, making them ideal for environments with varying moisture levels.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: The linear grain pattern is often considered more refined and attractive, and it can feature unique ray flecks, especially in species like oak.
  • Wear Resistance: The vertical grain structure provides greater resistance to wear and tear, making it suitable for high-traffic areas.

Cons:

  • Higher Cost: The process yields less usable timber and is more labor-intensive, leading to higher costs.
  • Limited Availability: Due to its lower yield and higher demand, quarter sawn timber can be harder to source.

Rift Sawn Timber

Description: Rift sawn timber is cut at a slight angle to the radial, typically between 30° to 60°, resulting in a tight, straight grain pattern. This method is less common and more expensive due to its lower yield.

Pros:

  • Superior Stability: Like quarter sawn timber, rift sawn boards offer excellent dimensional stability and are less prone to movement.
  • Consistent Grain: The straight grain pattern is highly uniform and considered very desirable for a sleek, modern look.
  • Minimal Seasonal Gapping: This method minimizes the gaps that can occur between boards during seasonal changes.

Cons:

  • Expensive: The lower yield and more complex sawing process make rift sawn timber the most expensive option.
  • Wasteful: This method produces more waste compared to plain sawn and quarter sawn techniques.

End Grain Timber

Description: End grain timber is created by cutting the log cross-sectionally, exposing the ends of the growth rings. This method is often used for specialty flooring and creates a unique, block-like pattern.

Pros:

  • Exceptional Durability: End grain boards are extremely hard and wear-resistant, ideal for high-impact areas.
  • Unique Appearance: The pattern created by end grain cutting is distinctive and can add a bold statement to any space.
  • Natural Resilience: The orientation of the grain makes end grain timber naturally resistant to splitting and chipping.

Cons:

  • Complex Installation: End grain flooring can be more challenging to install and requires a skilled professional.
  • High Cost: The intricate cutting and installation process make end grain timber one of the more expensive options.

For more information on timber flooring and expert advice on choosing the right type of wood for your project, feel free to contact us at Vienna Woods, your Auckland wood flooring specialist. Whether you’re looking for luxury hardwood floors or specialist wood flooring solutions, we are here to help you every step of the way.

Vienna Woods Engineered Timber Flooring

Comparing Solid Wood vs Engineered Timber Flooring: A Technical Insight

The choice between solid wood and engineered timber flooring is vital for homeowners and professionals. This article integrates technical details from recent industry manuals to offer a deeper understanding of these two popular flooring options.

1. Composition and Structural Differences:

  • Solid Wood Flooring: Made from single pieces of hardwood, solid wood flooring is known for its robustness and susceptibility to environmental changes like humidity.
  • Engineered Timber Flooring: Comprises a hardwood veneer over a core layer, often plywood or fibreboard. Engineered flooring offers enhanced stability against humidity changes due to its cross-laminated structure.

2. Installation and Environmental Adaptability:

  • Solid Wood: Requires careful installation, taking into account factors like moisture content and subfloor conditions. It’s sensitive to environmental changes and needs acclimatisation before installation.
  • Engineered Timber: Adaptable to various subfloor conditions and can be installed as floating floors. Its layered construction minimises dimensional changes due to humidity.

3. Durability and Maintenance:

  • Solid Wood: Can be sanded and refinished multiple times, extending its lifespan. It requires regular maintenance to counteract environmental effects.
  • Engineered Timber: The ability to refinish depends on the veneer thickness. It typically requires less maintenance and is more resistant to moisture and heat.

4. Aesthetic Variations and Customisations:

  • Solid Wood: Offers a timeless, natural look with inherent grain and colour variations.
  • Engineered Timber: Provides a wide range of aesthetic options and can mimic rare woods. Veneer quality and construction type can influence its appearance and performance.

5. Environmental Impact and Sustainability:

  • Solid Wood: Utilises more hardwood, impacting forests unless sustainably sourced.
  • Engineered Timber: More sustainable, using less hardwood. The impact depends on core materials and the manufacturing process.

Both solid wood and engineered timber flooring have unique attributes and technical considerations. Your choice will depend on factors like installation environment, maintenance preferences, and sustainability concerns.

Why would I want timber floors instead of carpet?

Here are some reasons why you might want timber floors instead of carpet: 

  1. Appearance: Timber floors can provide a timeless, elegant look that adds warmth and character to any room. They also offer a variety of natural tones and grains that can complement any interior design style. 
  2. Easy to clean: Timber floors are generally easier to clean and maintain than carpet, as they don’t trap dirt, dust, and allergens the way carpet does. They can be swept, vacuumed, and mopped easily, which can be particularly desirable for people with allergies or pets. 
  3. Durability: Timber floors are generally more durable and long-lasting than carpet, as they don’t wear out or need to be replaced as frequently. With proper maintenance, a timber floor can last for decades or even centuries. 
  4. Value: Timber floors can add value to your home, as they are a desirable feature that many homebuyers look for. They can also be refinished or restored, which can help to maintain their value over time. 
  5. Versatility: Timber floors can be used in any room of the house, from bedrooms and living rooms to kitchens and bathrooms. They can be paired with a variety of design elements, such as area rugs and furniture, to create a personalized look. 

While timber floors may require a higher initial investment, their long lifespan, ease of maintenance and timeless aesthetic can make them a cost-effective choice in the long run.  

How Hard-Wearing are NZ Timber Floors, Compared with European Oak?

Did you know that a person wearing stilettos can exert more force on a single stiletto point than an elephant? That is the amount of force that our flooring is susceptible to.

A large number of New Zealand homes have native timber floors. They are thought to be reasonably hard-wearing (although many species do often show dents from wear). In many cases this flooring needs to be extended or refurbished and the cost to do so can be a prohibitive.

An alternative option is to introduce an overlay timber flooring to the home. As such, we are often asked about the hardness of European Oak compared to New Zealand native timber floors. The Janka Hardness Test is a great way to offer a comparison between timber species.

The Janka Hardness Test is used to measure the resistance of a sample of wood, to denting and wear.  The results can compare the relative hardness of different species. It is determined by pressing a small steel ball into the wood.  The test measures the force required to embed the ball half way (creating an indentation that measures one square centermeter. 

European oak has a relatively high rating on the Janka scale, making it a durable choice for flooring.  It is not the hardest on the scale, but oak has become a popular choice due to accessibility, a desirable aesthetic, ability to forest sustainably and it is relatively easy to work with for a hard wood.

Some New Zealand native timbers, such as totara and rimu, also rank relatively high on the Janka scale, but are limited in availability for flooring. Other native timbers, such as kauri and matai, rank lower on the scale and may be less resistant to wear and tear.

The hardness test is expressed as kilograms-force (kgs), newtons (N) or pounds-force (lbf).  The following shows a comparison of New Zealand Natives and other popular species expressed in lbf:

• Brazilian cherry: 2,820 lbf

• Totara: 2,040 lbf
• Jarrah: 2,020 lbf

• Maple: 1,450 lbf

• European Oak: 1,350 lbf
• Teak: 1,155 lbf
• Rimu: 1,010 lbf
• Kauri: 890 lbf
• Matai: 940 lbf

Each species has a number unique properties.  The wear resistance and hardness of timber is important, but it is just one factor to consider when choosing flooring.  

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