Why Choose an Oiled Timber Floor?

Architectural home featuring Vienna Woods Oak timber floor oiled

Choosing the right finish for your timber flooring is a crucial decision. Among the various options available, oiled timber floors offer a range of benefits that make them an excellent choice for both residential and commercial spaces. Here are the top reasons to consider an oiled wood floor:

 

1. Natural Aesthetic Appeal

Oiled timber floors maintain the natural beauty and character of the wood. The oil enhances the grain and texture, providing a warm and inviting look. Unlike other finishes, it doesn’t form a layer on top but penetrates the wood, giving it a more natural appearance.

 

2. Easy to Repair Scratches

One of the significant advantages of an oiled hardwood floor is the ease of repairing scratches. Minor scratches and scuffs can be easily buffed out with a bit of oil, restoring the floor to its original condition without the need for sanding or refinishing.

 

3. No Need to Sand and Refinish

With an oiled finish, there’s no need to sand and refinish the entire floor to address wear and tear. Regular maintenance involves reapplying oil to high-traffic areas, which is a straightforward process compared to the intensive work required for lacquered or varnished floors.

 

4. Customisable Colours

Oiled floors offer the flexibility to adjust the colour of your wood floor. The oil can be tinted to match your desired hue, allowing for a customised look that can enhance the overall aesthetic of your space. This makes it an ideal choice for designers and homeowners looking to achieve a specific ambiance.

 

5. Environmental Benefits

Opting for an oiled timber floor is an environmentally friendly choice. The oils used are often derived from natural sources and are less harmful to the environment compared to synthetic finishes. Additionally, the maintenance process is gentler on the environment, requiring fewer harsh chemicals.

 

6. Better Humidity Regulation

Oiled wood floors have the unique ability to better regulate the humidity of a room. The oil allows the wood to breathe, which helps maintain a balanced indoor climate. This can be particularly beneficial in areas with varying humidity levels, reducing the risk of warping or cracking.

 

7. Enhanced Durability

The oil penetrates deep into the wood, providing enhanced durability and protection from within. This internal protection helps the floor withstand daily wear and tear, making it a long-lasting option for high-traffic areas.

 

8. Healthier Indoor Air Quality

Using natural oils for finishing timber flooring can contribute to healthier indoor air quality. These oils often have lower volatile organic compounds (VOCs) compared to synthetic finishes, reducing the emission of harmful substances into the air.

 

9. Low Maintenance

Maintaining an oiled timber floor is relatively easy. Regular sweeping and occasional mopping with a damp cloth are usually sufficient to keep the floor clean. Periodically reapplying the oil keeps the wood nourished and protected, ensuring it remains in excellent condition for years.

 

10. Versatility in Application

Oiled finishes are versatile and can be applied to various types of wood, including engineered timber floors and natural wood flooring. This makes them suitable for a wide range of applications, from traditional hardwood floors to modern engineered options.

 

11. Timeless Elegance

Oiled wood floors offer a timeless elegance that complements any interior style. Whether you prefer a rustic, traditional look or a sleek, modern design, an oiled finish enhances the natural charm of the wood, adding value and beauty to your space.

 

Choosing an oiled timber floor brings numerous benefits, from easy maintenance and repair to environmental advantages and improved indoor air quality. Its natural, customisable finish and ability to regulate humidity make it a practical and aesthetically pleasing choice for any home or commercial space. By opting for an oiled finish, you ensure a beautiful, durable, and eco-friendly wood floor that will stand the test of time.

Havane 301 Distressed Timber Flooring

You may also be interested in these articles….

Sustainable and Compliant; Oiled Timber Flooring

The Different Finishes available for Engineered Timber Flooring

Oiled vs Lacquer Finish

Interested in how to care for an oiled floor?  You can see the care guide here.

See the Complete Timber Flooring Collection

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.

What is Engineered Timber Flooring?

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.

The concept of engineered timber has been around for some time.  It wasn’t until the early 20th century when engineered timber began to be used for flooring.  See our article on The History of Engineered Flooring for more information.

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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.

 

 

Engineered Timber Flooring Options Available at Vienna Woods

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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