What You Need to Consider Before You Install Timber Flooring
Timber Flooring Considerations
Timber flooring offers warmth, durability and long-term value, but successful installation starts with preparation. From species selection to site preparation and fixing methods, informed decisions help minimise movement, defects and post-installation issues.
Here’s what to consider for a durable, long-lasting timber floor.
Choosing the Right Timber Species and Board Size
Selecting the right timber species and board size is more than visual appearance. Many factors should be considered prior to selecting the timber decking.
Timber Board Width
Wider boards generally cost more per square metre and can be more prone to movement if not installed correctly. This makes correct fixing, spacing and moisture control especially important when working with wider profiles.
Species Natural Appearance
Some timbers show significant colour variation from board to board, while other species naturally showcase gum veins, knots and worm holes for added character. It’s important to consider how the natural colour and grain will work across the entire floor and interior space.
Hardness (Janka Rating)
Hardness affects durability and resistance to dents and wear. For example, Tasmanian Oak is around half as hard as Blackbutt timber, making it less suitable for high-traffic areas. Matching the Janka rating to the intended use of the space helps reduce damage and extend the life of the timber flooring.
Fixing Method
Timber floorboards may be secret fixed or face fixed, depending on the board width and manufacturer guidelines. For example, boards over 85mm should be face fixed. The fixing method impacts not only the timber flooring’s finished appearance but also installation time, material requirements and overall cost.
Cost Considerations
Some species are significantly more expensive than others. Comparing products on a cost-per-square-metre basis provides the most accurate price comparison across different species and board sizes.
Solid Timber Flooring Pre-Installation
Proper preparation is key to a successful timber flooring installation. That’s why it’s important to consider the following.
Subfloor Ventilation
Subfloor ventilation is essential and must comply with the Building Code of Australia (BCA) requirements. Adequate airflow helps control moisture levels and reduces the risk of movement and decay.
For more information on subfloor ventilation, read our blog ‘Subfloor Ventilation: The Secret to Timber Flooring Longevity.’
Substrate Condition
Subfloors, including sheet flooring and concrete slabs, must be level and free from damage. Uneven substrates can lead to movement, squeaking and uneven wear over time.
Moisture & Drainage Control
Ensure external drainage will not impact the internal floor. This includes preventing water ponding beneath timber floors. Always confirm the substrate is dry and apply a waterproof membrane where required.
Heating and Services
Subfloor heating ducts and services should be securely fixed to bearers and not left resting on the ground, where they may trap moisture or restrict airflow.
Timing with Other Trades
Do not install timber flooring until all wet trades, such as plastering, are complete. Walls and fixings can be painted prior to installation, excluding the final skirting coat, to avoid damage to the paint.
Timber Flooring Moisture Content & Acclimatisation
Obtain the approximate moisture content of the flooring prior to installation to ensure it is within an acceptable range for the site conditions. Poor acclimatisation can lead to excessive expansion, shrinkage or cupping after installation.
Learn more about acclimatisation on the blog, ‘Timber Flooring Acclimatisation: How Important is it?’
Bowens Timber Flooring Range
For a wide range of timber flooring, including Blackbutt flooring, Tasmanian Oak, American Oak flooring and more, explore the Bowens website. Alternatively, visit our Circa Studio for flooring samples, advice and technical information.