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.  

For more information, see below:

Click Here

The history and evolution of engineered timber flooring

Engineered timber flooring is a relatively new type of flooring that has gained popularity in recent years. Here is a brief overview of the history and evolution of engineered timber flooring:

 

  1. Early history: The concept of engineered wood dates back to the 19th century, when it was first used in the construction of ships and airplanes. However, it was not until the 20th century that the idea of using engineered wood for flooring began to emerge.
  2. Introduction of plywood: In the 1930s, the first types of engineered wood flooring, known as plywood, were introduced. Plywood was made from thin layers of wood that were glued together in a cross-laminate configuration, which made it more stable than solid wood.
  3. Development of parquet flooring: In the 1950s and 1960s, parquet flooring, which was made from small pieces of wood arranged in a geometric pattern, became popular. Parquet flooring was often made from engineered wood, as it was more stable and easier to install than solid wood.
  4. Advancements in manufacturing: In the 1980s and 1990s, advancements in manufacturing technology led to the development of new types of engineered wood flooring, such as laminate flooring and floating wood floors. These products were made from a combination of wood and synthetic materials, which made them more affordable and easier to install than traditional wood flooring.
  5. Today’s high‑quality engineered floors are layered and bonded under pressure—made to stay flat and stable in real homes. Improvements since the 1980s mean they’re now easier to fit, more reliable and available in a wider array of looks.

Overall, the history of engineered timber flooring has been one of continuous innovation and improvement, leading to the high-quality, versatile flooring products that are available on the market today.

The benefits of European-made engineered timber flooring

European-made engineered timber flooring is known for its high quality and attention to detail. Here are some of the benefits of choosing European-made engineered timber flooring for your home:

 

  1. Superior craftsmanship: European manufacturers are known for their attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality products. This is reflected in the craftsmanship of European-made engineered timber flooring, which is often superior to products made in other parts of the world.
  2. Strict manufacturing standards: European countries have strict manufacturing standards in place, which ensure that products are made to a high level of quality and safety. This is particularly important when it comes to flooring, as it is an integral part of your home and needs to be durable and long-lasting.
  3. Wide range of styles: European manufacturers offer a wide range of styles and finishes for engineered timber flooring, allowing you to choose a product that fits the look and feel of your home.
  4. Sustainable sourcing: Many European manufacturers source their wood from sustainably-managed forests, making their products more environmentally-friendly. You can read more about our product sustainability here.
  5. Long warranty periods: European-made engineered timber flooring often comes with longer warranty periods, giving you added peace of mind and protection against defects or issues with the flooring.  Check out our product warranties below.

In summary, choosing European-made engineered timber flooring for your home offers superior craftsmanship, strict manufacturing standards, a wide range of styles, sustainable sourcing, and long warranty periods. All of these factors contribute to the overall quality and value of the product.

Our Product Warranties

 

 

How Hard-Wearing are NZ Native Timber Floors?

Many New Zealand homes have native timber floors. They are known 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 often the cost to do so can be prohibitive.

Alternative options are 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 scale is used to measure the hardness of wood and compare the relative hardness of different species. It is determined by pressing a small steel ball into the wood with a set amount of force and measuring the depth of the indentation. This measure is expressed as an lbf value (pounds of force).

European oak has a high rating on the Janka scale, making it a durable choice for flooring. In comparison to other types of timber, such as pine and fir, European oak ranks relatively high on the scale. Some New Zealand native timbers, such as totara and rimu, also rank relatively high on the Janka scale. Other native timbers, such as kauri and matai, rank lower on the scale and may be less resistant to wear and tear.

The following shows a comparison of New Zealand Natives and other popular species:

•   Maple: 1,450 lbf

•   Brazilian cherry: 2,820 lbf

•   Jarrah: 2,020 lbf

•   Teak: 1,155 lbf

•   Totara: 2,040 lbf

•   Rimu: 1,010 lbf

•   Kauri: 890 lbf

•   Matai: 940 lbf

•   European Oak: 1,350 lbf

Compared to most New Zealand natives, European timber rates much higher on the Janka hardness scale.

The Janka scale is just one factor to consider when choosing timber flooring, as other factors such as appearance, price, and availability may also be important. However, the Janka scale can help you choose a durable and suitable type of flooring.

The Differences Between Oiled & Lacquered Timber Floors

Engineered oak timber flooring is a popular choice for homeowners and businesses due to its durability and versatility. When choosing engineered oak flooring, one important decision is whether to opt for an oiled finish or a lacquered finish. Here are the pros and cons of each option:

Oiled Oak Flooring Pros:

  1. Natural look: Oiled oak flooring has the most natural and organic appearance.
  2. Easy maintenance: Oiled oak flooring is relatively easy to maintain, as it only requires occasional re-oiling to keep it looking its best. This can be done using a special oil and a soft cloth, and the process is generally quick and straightforward.
  3. Better timber experience: Oiled oak flooring has a softer and more comfortable feel underfoot than a lacquered floor because you are in direct contact with the timber. An oiled floor will never crack, blister or flake off, because there is no coating to sit on top.
  4. Pore expression: The open-pored wood regulates humidity levels for a heathy indoor climate. As the room increases and decreases in humidity, the flooring will take on more or less moisture.
  5. Environmental benefits: Oiled oak flooring is considered to be more environmentally friendly than lacquered flooring, as it does not contain any harmful chemicals or solvents.
  6. Spot repairs: Many oiled finishes can be spot-repaired, eliminating the need for future sanding and refinishing.

Oiled Oak Flooring Cons:

  1. Susceptible to water damage: Although it can be largely managed, oiled oak flooring is more prone to water damage than lacquered flooring. It may not be the best choice for areas of the home or business that are prone to moisture, or are not likely to maintain the floor.
  2. Requires frequent maintenance: While oiled oak flooring is relatively easy to maintain, it does require more frequent attention than lacquered flooring in order to keep it looking its best. Without maintenance, an oiled floor will be more susceptible to staining. A typical maintenance program for a residential home would mean oiling the floor every 24 months.
  3. Can’t use standard cleaners: Standard cleaning products will lift oils. An oiled floor requires specific cleaning products to ensure effective care.

Lacquered Oak Flooring Pros:

  1. Durability: Lacquered oak flooring is more durable and resistant to wear and tear than oiled flooring, making it a good choice for high-traffic areas.
  2. Easy maintenance: Lacquered oak flooring is relatively easy to maintain, as it only requires occasional dusting and sweeping to keep it looking its best.
  3. Resistant to water damage: Lacquered oak flooring is more resistant to water damage than oiled flooring, making it a good choice for areas of the home or business that are prone to moisture.
  4. Can be natural looking: The latest matt lacquer floor coatings can look extremely natural.

Lacquered Oak Flooring Cons:

  1. Artificial appearance: Lacquered oak flooring can have a more artificial or synthetic appearance than oiled flooring, which may not be appealing to those who prefer a more natural look.
  2. Hard feel: Lacquered oak flooring can have a harder and more unforgiving feel underfoot than oiled. When touching a lacquered floor, you are in contact with the lacquer, rather than the timber.
  3. Repairs are more difficult: Spot repairs and minor scratches are not as easy to repair as with oiled floors.
  4. Refurbishment is costly: Most lacquered floors eventually require refurbishing which can be a disruptive and costly exercise. Refurbishing a lacquered floor requires removing all furniture, sanding and refinishing. (A lacquered finish should last 10 to 15 years).
  5. Environmental impact: Contains chemicals: Lacquered oak flooring is made with chemicals and solvents, which can be harmful to the environment

Ultimately, the choice between oiled and lacquered oak flooring comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of your space. Consider the look and feel you want for your floor, as well as the level of maintenance you are willing to commit to and the environmental impacts of your choice.

Floating Timber Floor Installation vs Glue-Down Installation

Choosing between a floating timber floor installation and a glue-down method is a key decision for any flooring project. Each approach has unique benefits and suitability depending on your needs. Here’s a comparison to help you decide which option is right for you.

What is a Floating Timber Floor Installation?

A floating timber floor rests on an underlay rather than being fixed directly to the subfloor. The planks click together, creating a stable, secure surface that “floats” above the base.

Benefits of Floating Floors:

  • Ease of Installation: Ideal for DIY projects, thanks to the click-lock mechanism.
  • Cost-Effective: No adhesives or nails are required, reducing materials and labour costs.
  • Subfloor Flexibility: Can be installed over various surfaces, including concrete or tiles.
  • Movability: Easily removed or replaced, making it perfect for renters or those planning future renovations.

Limitations of Floating Floors:

  • Less Soundproof: Without adhesive, sound can transmit through the layers.
  • Not Ideal for Wet Areas: Floating floors may not be suitable for high-moisture spaces like bathrooms.

What is Glue-Down Installation?

Glue-down timber floors are fixed directly to the subfloor with a high-quality adhesive. This creates a seamless bond, enhancing the floor’s stability and longevity.

Benefits of Glue-Down Floors:

  • Superior Stability: The adhesive bond minimises movement and provides a solid feel underfoot.
  • Enhanced Acoustics: The glued surface reduces noise transmission and echoing.
  • Durable and Long-Lasting: Ideal for high-traffic areas and commercial spaces.
  • Better for Wet Areas: With the right sealant, glue-down floors can handle moisture better than floating options.

Limitations of Glue-Down Floors:

  • Complex Installation: Requires professional expertise, especially on uneven subfloors.
  • Higher Costs: Adhesives and skilled labour add to the expense.
  • Permanent Fix: Removing glue-down floors can be difficult and time-consuming.

Which Installation Method is Right for You?

Choose Floating Floors If:

  • You want a quick, cost-effective installation.
  • Your subfloor is even and dry.
  • You need flexibility for future changes or renovations.

Choose Glue-Down Floors If:

  • You require maximum stability and soundproofing.
  • The area experiences heavy foot traffic.
  • You are installing flooring in wet or commercial spaces.

Both floating timber floor installation and glue-down methods have their place in modern flooring. Your choice depends on your project’s requirements, your budget, and the conditions of your subfloor.

When in doubt, consult a flooring expert to ensure the best outcome for your space. No matter the method, high-quality timber floors add beauty, warmth, and value to your home.

You May Be Interested In: