At Vienna Woods we often find that there are some misunderstandings about what is commonly called Engineered Flooring. In the following article we will outline exactly what engineered flooring is and clear up any misconceptions.
Engineered flooring is term used to describe a flooring board comprising of layers of timber glued together to form a robust “engineered” plank. The top layer is usually a species of hard wood.
Fusing the layers together in this way is also called laminating. builders frequently work with laminated timber for everything from various ply wood application through to ceiling beams. Laminated timbers are often used for their added spanning properties (think thick laminated beams) and also their structure stability (think of sheets of plywood). However, some confusion exists when using the term “laminated” with flooring. There is a category of flooring named “laminated” which refers to a synthetic top layer laminated to a high density fibreboard backing. Engineered timber flooring is technically laminated, but it does not fall under the category of laminated flooring. Even builders (who commonly use and discuss laminated products) will sometimes refer to engineered timber flooring as “laminated”.
The Key Features of Engineered Timber Flooring:
Layers: The typical engineered timber floor plank is made up of three or more layers. These layers are laid at right angles to each other to improve strength and resilience.
Top Layer (Wear Layer): The topmost layer is a veneer of the desired hardwood. This could be oak, maple, or any other type of wood. This layer provides the look and feel of solid hardwood flooring. The thickness of this layer can vary, but it’s generally between 2mm to 6mm. This layer can be sanded and refinished, depending on its thickness.
Core Layers: Beneath the top layer are several core layers, usually made from plywood, hardwood, or high-density fiberboard. These layers provide stability, reducing the wood’s natural tendency to expand and contract with changes in humidity and temperature. This makes engineered wood flooring more suitable for areas with varying climate conditions or for installation over underfloor heating systems.
Bottom Layer: The bottom layer of engineered wood flooring is usually made from the same material as the core layers. It helps balance the board and prevent warping.
Engineered timber floors include a top layer of hardwood; typically 2.5 to 6mm, and a backing board which will sometimes be multi layered ply and some times solid core. The backing board is usually made from a fast growing softwood. The benefits of this construction are;
Stability: The cross-layer construction provides high stability compared to solid wood, making it less prone to changes caused by humidity and temperature.
Versatility: Engineered wood can be installed over various types of subfloors, including concrete.
Sustainability: Since the top layer is a thin veneer, less hardwood is used compared to solid wood flooring. This can be more sustainable if the wood is sourced responsibly.
Compatibility with Underfloor Heating: The construction of engineered wood makes it suitable for use with underfloor heating systems.
There are a number of different engineered timber types with connection systems, thicknesses and construction types varying a great deal. The more common architypes are pictured below;
Engineered wood can last as long as solid hardwood, but its lifespan can be shorter if the top layer is too thin to be refinished.
An additional consideration is variability in quality. Since engineered timber planks are manufactured, there can be a wide variety in qualities. Everything from the quality of the manufacturing through to the width and thickness of the flooring and the wear layer. Because of this variability, it is important to select an appropriate supplier if you are considering engineered flooring for your home.
Engineered timber flooring offers the beauty of hardwood with added stability and versatility, making it a popular choice for various settings, including residential and commercial spaces.
Installing a glue-down wood floor is a method that combines stability, durability, and timeless appeal. This process involves adhering the timber directly to the subfloor using a specialised adhesive, creating a seamless and firm finish underfoot. To ensure success, you need careful preparation and precise execution.
Why Choose a Glue-Down Wood Floor?
Glue-down installation offers significant advantages over floating methods. It reduces movement, provides excellent acoustics, and enhances the solid feel of your floor. If you’re weighing your options, check out our comparison of floating and glue-down installationsto decide which method suits your space.
Steps for Installing a Glue-Down Wood Floor
To achieve a flawless result, follow these steps:
Prepare the Subfloor: Ensure the subfloor is level, dry, and free from debris. Subfloor preparation is critical to avoid issues like warping or gapping. For detailed guidance, BRANZ provides excellent resources tailored to New Zealand building standards.
Acclimate the Timber: Allow the timber to acclimatise to the room’s environment before installation. This step reduces movement caused by temperature and humidity changes.
Install with Precision: Lay the boards meticulously, ensuring even spacing and alignment. Expansion gaps should be left around the room’s perimeter to accommodate natural wood movement.
Finishing Touches: Many glue-down wood floors come pre-finished, but if you opt for an unfinished floor, you’ll need to sand, stain, and seal it after installation. Visit our floor care guide for maintenance tips post-installation.
Enhancing Your Floor with Design Options
The glue-down method is ideal for complex patterns like herringbone flooring, where stability is paramount. If you’re considering a unique design, our team can help you bring your vision to life.
Maintaining Your Glue-Down Timber Floor
Proper maintenance is key to keeping your floor looking its best. For tips, read our article on oiled timber floors and explore products from trusted brands like Bona for cleaning and care.
By following these steps and using high-quality materials, you can enjoy a durable and beautiful glue-down wood floor that will last for years. For expert advice or inspiration, explore our completed projects showcasing glue-down installations in various settings.
In the world of interior design, trends come and go, but there’s one element that has stood the test of time – the rustic beauty of bandsaw timber flooring. Bandsaw timber is a remarkable choice for those who seek to infuse their living spaces with character and authenticity. This unique flooring option preserves the old-world charm of timber while enhancing modern interiors with a strong textural element.
Let’s delve into the origins of bandsaw timber and explore how and why it is still used in modern timber flooring.
The Origins of Bandsaw Timber
Bandsaw and rough-sawn timber, with its distinctive physical texture and grooves, has a history that dates back to the early days of woodworking. The bandsaw itself is a classic tool that woodworkers have used for centuries. Unlike modern, high-speed circular saws, bandsaws use a continuous loop of metal with teeth to cut through timber. This slower cutting process results in the characteristic, uneven patterns, ridges, and grooves that make bandsaw timber so unique.
The bandsaw, in its various historical forms, was an essential tool in woodworking shops of the past. It allowed craftsmen to efficiently cut logs into lumber and planks, making it an integral part of traditional craftsmanship. These early bandsaw-cut planks were used in a variety of applications, from constructing buildings to crafting furniture, and they quickly gained a reputation for their durability and rustic appeal.
The Revival of Bandsaw Timber in Modern Flooring
In recent years, there has been a growing resurgence of interest in bandsaw and rough-sawn timber for modern interior design. The reasons for this revival are numerous and reflect both practical and aesthetic considerations.
1. Authenticity and Character: Bandsaw timber flooring embodies the authenticity and character of the past. Its irregularities, natural imperfections, and grooves provide a tangible link to a time when craftsmanship was prized, and every piece of wood told a unique story. This historical authenticity is particularly appealing in an age dominated by mass-produced, homogeneous products.
2. Visual Texture: The physical divers and grooves in bandsaw timber create a visually rich texture that can transform any space. This textured surface adds depth and interest to a room, giving it a warm, inviting ambiance that simply can’t be replicated by more uniform flooring materials.
3. Durability: Bandsaw-cut timber is known for its durability. The bandsaw’s slower cutting process results in lumber that is denser and more robust, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas in modern homes. It can withstand years of use and still maintain its beauty.
4. Maintenance: Let’s get real on the maintenance of rustic styles; Bandsawn and rough-sawn timber is so rich in texture that it will hide a myriad of sins. Scratches, dents and stains can often be concealed within the character and texture of this style of timber flooring. Much more so than with say, prime grade smooth finishes.
5. Versatility: Bandsaw timber is versatile, allowing it to complement a wide range of interior design styles. Whether your space is rustic, contemporary, or somewhere in between, bandsaw timber can be adapted to suit your needs.
Bandsaw timber flooring is a beautiful, practical choice for modern interior design. Its deep-rooted history, authenticity, and unique textural qualities make it a versatile option that can enhance the character and ambiance of any living space. By embracing the rustic charm of bandsaw timber, you not only add a touch of nostalgia to your interior but also ensure that your flooring exudes character and charm for years to come. As you take each step on your bandsaw timber floor, you’ll be walking through history while enjoying the timeless beauty of a classic material in a modern setting.
Timber floors can be a good choice with pets, but there are certain considerations to keep in mind before making a decision. Here are some pros and cons to consider when it comes to having timber floors in a home with pets:
**Pros:**
1. **Durability:** High-quality hardwood timber floors can be quite durable and resistant to scratches and dents. Some wood species are harder than others and can better withstand the wear and tear that comes with pet activities.
2. **Easy to Clean:** Timber floors are relatively easy to clean, and pet hair and dander can be easily swept or vacuumed. Accidents can also be cleaned up more easily than on carpets.
3. **Hypoallergenic:** Timber floors are hypoallergenic compared to carpets, which can trap allergens and pet dander. This can be beneficial for both your pet’s health and your own.
4. **Aesthetic Appeal:** Timber floors can add a warm and timeless aesthetic to your home, potentially increasing its value.
**Cons:**
1. **Scratches:** While hardwood floors can be durable, they can still get scratched by pets’ claws, especially if the wood is softer. Regular trimming of your pet’s nails can help mitigate this issue.
2. **Slippery Surface:** Some pets, especially those with little traction on their paws, may find timber floors to be slippery, leading to potential accidents or difficulty in getting around.
3. **Moisture and Stains:** Timber floors are sensitive to moisture, and pet accidents or spills can lead to staining or warping if not cleaned up promptly. Proper sealing and maintenance are crucial.
4. **Noise:** Pets walking on timber floors can generate more noise compared to carpeted floors, which might be a concern in multi-story homes or apartments.
5. **Maintenance:** Timber floors require regular maintenance, including periodic refinishing to maintain their appearance and protect them from wear and tear.
**Tips for Choosing Timber Floors with Pets:**
1. **Choose Harder Wood Species:** Opt for hardwood species that are known for their hardness and durability, such as oak, maple, or hickory.
2. **Consider Finishes:** Choose a finish that offers good scratch resistance and durability, such as a matte or satin finish.
3. **Use Rugs and Mats:** Place area rugs or mats in high-traffic areas and under your pet’s food and water bowls to provide extra protection for the floor and better traction for your pet.
4. **Keep Nails Trimmed:** Regularly trim your pet’s nails to help prevent scratches on the timber floor.
5. **Wipe Up Accidents Quickly:** Accidents should be cleaned up promptly to prevent staining and warping of the wood.
Timber floors can work well with pets, but it’s important to choose the right type of wood, finishes, and maintenance routines to ensure they remain in good condition. If you’re concerned about potential issues, you could also explore other flooring options like laminate or tile, which can mimic the appearance of timber while offering different benefits.
Here are some reasons why you might want timber floors instead of carpet:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
In this article we have compiled years of customer questions and our knowledge of the market around what a timber floor in New Zealand typically costs and what the main factors are that influence the price. European oak is the most common species of hardwood in the NZ market, so much of this information relates to oak. There are several factors that can impact the cost of European timber flooring for the consumer.
How is timber flooring sold?
In New Zealand timber flooring has a number of channels to market including through flooring installers, builders, architects, interior designers, flooring retailers, timber merchants and the timber flooring specialists. Each of these groups can add value to your purchase in a number of different ways. Some trades may add a margin to the materials before selling on to you, others will earn their revenue in other ways, but typically the consumer will pay a similar price for timber flooring no matter how it is procured.
Timber flooring is available most popularly now as engineered flooring (see our article on What is Engineered Timber Flooring), however there are a number of installers, timber flooring specialists and more usually, timber merchants who will source solid timber flooring.
Timber flooring is usually sold by the square meter (m2) to work as a direct comparison to the floor area to cover. There will always be an element of wastage to factor in to the purchase which allows for a practical cutting waste and the odd undesirable board (a factor to consider since timber is featured with a number of characteristics that can be a personal preference). Typical wastage allowance is 10%, but depending on the complexity of flooring, this may be up to 20%.
Usually a reseller will require a deposit to hold the product, this is an important step in reserving your material. For the reseller it gives them certainty that they can hold the product for you without loosing the potential to sell it to someone else should you cancel. 50% is typical.
The seller may require you to take delivery of the flooring within a timeframe and this is because storing material comes at a cost. A cost of warehousing and finance and also space to store other products for other customers.
Some sellers can arrange special orders for customers. This is where you may arrange a custom treatment, a unique width/ length or other special timber flooring that isn’t typically held in stock.
Who can you buy from?
Resellers; these are people or stores who have purchased usually from an importer. They add value by having a broad variety of flooring options. The right reseller will have expertise in recommending the most suitable product.
Tradespeople (usually builders or timber flooring installers); They add value by having experience with suppliers and installers. When they procure for your project they also take on responsibility for ensuring the right product arrives in the correct quantity, at the right time and is installer to specification.
Interior Designers; they add value by having experience with suppliers and installers. They are considering the suitability of the flooring recommendations for the entire project aesthetic.
Timber Flooring Specialist; they add value in their specialisation. A timber flooring specialist will be able to recommend product to suit budget, design and technical specification.
Do tradespeople have access to different pricing?
In most industries, tradespeople have access to lower pricing and timber flooring is no different. This is for a few reasons;
The tradesperson will buy many times more than a consumer and so the seller incentivises their business.
The tradesperson will take on a responsibility of procuring the product
They will take responsibility for managing the materials and any issues that may arise
They take responsibility for the specification
Factors that influence the price:
Standard planks of European engineered timber flooring are usually between $120 and $250 +GST /m2. There may be good reason for timber flooring to be less or more than this price, but if it is, we recommend asking why. The majority of our flooring is in this range, but we have sourced specialised timber flooring for projects at a much higher price due to the customer requirements. These prices relate to the product only, the installation costs can also vary.
Solid hardwood is much higher price than engineered timber; this is mainly due to the fact that engineered timber uses about 70% less hardwood by comparative overall thickness.
Herringbone, Chevron or standard plank
Herringbone and chevron parket style flooring is usually a similar price as standard planks (sometimes a little more per m2), however the installation requires a higher level of skill and more time to lay. Note that the installation of these parket styles can be up to twice as much as standard plank installation. In addition, the wastage is usually higher for these parket styles. Typical wastage is 10%, whereas the wastage for herringbone and chevron can be 15 to 20%.
A Vienna Woods herringbone timber floor with aged brass inserts
Renovation or new build
A new build is usually easier to manage for flooring. A renovation often requires extra work to adapt to the existing features of the building (eg. Skirting boards, floor removal, balustrades in place). As such, you will usually pay a little more for preparation and installation on renovation works.
The origin of the timber flooring
When timber flooring is sourced from Europe, it has been made to a high European standard, which covers environmental impact, sustainability, VOC’s, human safety and durability.
However, European oak floorboards are often constructed outside of Europe. This is where the oak “wear layer” or “lamella” is shipped to another part of the world before being stained, treated and made in to floor boards. Many floor boards are made in China. In spite of the additional shipping and logistics costs, these boards are still considerably less to buy compared to European-made flooring. The benefit is price. The potential issues are; higher carbon footprint, questionable sourcing, a lack of clear standards. This is not to say that quality product can’t be sourced outside of Europe, but the quality is less standardised. Chinese-made European oak will often be in the low hundreds per m2.
The width and length of the boards
The dimensions of timber flooring is largely constrained by the yield available in the trees. You can increase the amount of usable timber from a tree by using small planks. As such, a general rule is that wider and longer planks demand a premium price. The standard dimensions of a plank in New Zealand is 180mm wide and around 2m long. Narrower and shorter planks are usually a lower price. Longer and wider planks are usually a higher price.
The species of timber
Timber species has an impact on price; some species are more scarce and some take longer to reach maturity. Native New Zealand timbers are usually reclaimed and fetch a premium price. Walnut is a slow-growing dense timber and also fetches a premium. Pine is a softwood; it grows quite fast and has a lower price. Oak is a mid to upper range product. It is quite hard-wearing, but also forested effectively. The price of engineered oak flooring is less than solid NZ natives and more than soft woods.
Installation method
Some engineered timber can be installed using a floating method, this is typically an inferior installation, but is a lower cost. Floating installations usually range between $45 and $60/ m2, including underlay and trims. However, the subfloor usually requires more work since it the timber overlay will be more sensitive to imperfections in the subfloor when floating. This can add a cost.
As mentioned previously, herringbone and chevron installs require more time and skill from the installer and often we see the cost up to twice as much as standard planks.
Preparing the subfloor
The purpose of subfloor preparation is primarily to ensure that the timber flooring has an even surface to lay on. However, in addition, an important part of floor preparation is to ensure that the finished floor level works with other features in the building, such as joinery and transitions in to other flooring types (eg tiles in the bathroom).
Floor preparation is usually quoted as a variable cost since the amount of time and materials required is very difficult to determine prior to beginning. As a very general guide; most homes require between $500 and $1,000 of floor preparation cost, but this is largely variable. If the flooring requires waterproofing, there is an additional cost to this as well.
Preparing the subfloor correctly is critical to achieving a good finish, so this is an important cost.
What about stairs?
Stairs are often priced separately from timber flooring in the main areas. They’re more complex to install and more time-consuming. This means the timber flooring cost for stairs is higher per square metre.
The total cost depends on the stair layout and design. A straight staircase is simpler and more affordable. Curved stairs, landings, and winders add cost due to extra labour and precision work.
Here’s what can affect the cost of timber flooring on stairs:
The number of steps
If the stairs are straight or curved
Whether you want nosings or solid treads
The type and finish of timber
If you need matching risers and stringers
For engineered timber, expect around $250 to $400 +GST per step. That includes the step, nosing, and installation. If you’re using solid timber, or adding custom elements, this can be higher.
The final price is always project-specific. It’s best to get a tailored quote based on your plans. That way, you know exactly what the timber flooring cost will be—stairs included.
Access to the space
Access to the rooms is an important consideration since machinery, tools and long heavy flooring materials will need to be transported. In a standard scenario, materials are walked in to the home easily. In more difficult access scenarios such as apartments; it can take a lot more time to transport materials from loading bays and up lifts. In these situations, the cost will increase.
Freight or pick-up
Freight is becoming an larger component of the overall cost of construction. With regards to flooring, the materials can be quite long and heavy and also susceptible to damage along the edges. If the company will allow, picking up your own flooring can save many hundreds of dollars, but it’s not for the feint-hearted. Palletised freight is the lowest cost, but requires machinery to offload on site. Furniture movers are the most convenient; they delivery within a time window and hand deliver to the room required, so the chances of damage are lower. They are also the highest cost.
Product warranties
Product sourced from Europe is mandated to be fit for purpose and as a result, it will have the most comprehensive warranty documentation. Product backed by comprehensive warranties is usually a little higher cost.
Sustainability
Sustainability of hardwoods is challenging. By their nature, hardwoods take many decades to reach maturity and such, maintaining sustainable forestry practices come at a cost. If your timber flooring carries a sustainability certification, it will have cost more to source and will likely be a higher cost.
Wastage
The industry standard wastage allowance is 10% on standard planks for the average floor. However, there are factors that will require an increase in wastage allowance and in turn, an increase in cost. These factors include:
Unusual shaped rooms
Herringbone or chevron designs
Special order product (If you are ordering in product from off-shore, getting more of that product will be onerous and time consuming. In those instances, it may be a good idea to increase a wastage allowance.
All in, we typically see the price of quality engineered timber flooring that is sourced from a reputable seller, at between $120 and $250 +GST/m2.
For a total budget estimate, we typically see the total installed cost of European engineered timber flooring, with a quality tradesperson, at between $260 and $350 /m2 +GST at retail price.
Our advice is that if you are seeing prices below this, you should ask questions to understand why. Likewise if you are seeing pricing above this range, there could be very good reason, but you should understand why.
Overall, there are many factors that can impact the cost of European timber flooring for the consumer. While it may be more expensive than other types of flooring, the benefits of European timber, such as durability, quality, and sustainability, may make it a worthwhile investment. It is important to do research, compare prices from different suppliers and take into account all the factors mentioned to make an informed decision.
