Which Timber is Best for Flooring? Must-Know Guide

Choosing the correct timber for the flooring frames the looks and feel of one's home. Whether it is an update to a room or you are creating a brand new space, timber flooring, of course, stands as a favourite choice for many. However, with so many options in your nose, getting a grip on which works best can be quite tough. Let's just begin with types of timber flooring and then its strengths, and why solid timber flooring takes the forefront.

What is Timber Flooring?

Using natural wood, timber flooring creates a warm and cosy atmosphere. It's a classic and goes with almost every design, providing several types of finishes that can match the essence of your style. There are two main types of timber flooring: solid timber flooring and engineered timber flooring. Both have their great strengths, though solid timber flooring oftentimes lasts longer and looks more luxurious.

Understanding Solid Timber Flooring

Solid timber flooring comes from a single piece of hardwood, which gives it incredible strength and long-lasting beauty. Moreover, it gives a thicker build and allows it to handle refinishing multiple times, enabling you to refresh its look over the years. Additionally, this quality ensures that your floors remain stunning for a long time, making solid timber a worthwhile investment.

Solid timber flooring shows off nature’s charm with unique grain patterns and earthy tones. Choosing timber from sustainable forests also protects the environment, making it a smart and eco-friendly decision.

Benefits of Solid Timber Flooring

1. Stands Strong Over Time: Solid timber flooring resists wear and lasts for decades with good care. Its thick wood handles heavy foot traffic without losing its charm.

2. Brings Natural Beauty: Timber floors highlight the natural grains and colours of the wood, adding character and elegance to any room.

3. Supports the Planet: When sourced responsibly, timber flooring can be an environmentally friendly option compared to synthetic floors.

4. Boosts Home Value: Homes with solid timber floors often attract higher offers from buyers, thanks to their timeless appeal.

5. Easily Transforms: You can polish and refinish solid timber floors, allowing you to give them a fresh look whenever you want.

   
   

Choosing the Right Timber for Your Flooring

When picking timber, think about its toughness, appearance, and price. Below are some popular types of timber flooring and why they stand out.

1. Oak Timber Flooring

Oak timber flooring grabs attention with its beautiful grains and dependable strength. Furthermore, it fits well with many design styles, ranging from modern to traditional. Additionally, you can choose from light blonde to deep amber shades, allowing you to suit your taste perfectly.

• Why Pick It? Oak flooring resists wear and matches almost any room style.

• What to Consider? Premium oak can cost more than other timbers.

2. Jarrah Timber Flooring

Jarrah, a hardwood from Australia, showcases deep red and brown tones that shine in any setting. Its tough build handles scratches and dents, while its grain patterns give rooms a unique personality.

• Why Pick It? Jarrah is strong, eye-catching, and resists termites.

• What to Consider? It might darken with age and can be harder to find.

3. Blackbutt Timber Flooring

Blackbutt, another Australian hardwood, offers soft golden hues and smooth textures. It looks great in minimalist or modern spaces and is naturally resistant to fire.

• Why Pick It? It’s durable, stylish, and fire-safe.

• What to Consider? Its light colour might not match all designs.

4. Spotted Gum Timber Flooring

Spotted Gum timber dazzles with colours ranging from soft browns to rich ambers. Its striking grain pattern makes it a favourite for bold designs. It also resists termites and decays naturally.

• Why Pick It? It stands strong under heavy use and adds a distinct look.

• What to Consider? Spotted Gum can cost more than other options.

5. Kauri Timber Flooring

Kauri timber brings soft, creamy tones and a delicate grain. While not as hard as some other timbers, it creates a welcoming feel and works well with different finishes.

• Why Pick It? Its light, airy look fits modern spaces beautifully.

• What to Consider? Its softness means it can scratch more easily.

The Cost of Timber Flooring

The price of timber flooring varies depending on the type of wood. Hardwoods like oak, jarrah, and Blackbutt cost more because of their durability and elegance, while softer woods like pine cost less but might wear out faster.

You’ll also need to budget for hiring a flooring contractor to install the timber. Installation costs depend on how complex the project is and where you live. Always gather quotes from several contractors and choose someone experienced with timber flooring to ensure quality work.

Maintenance Tips for Timber Flooring

Caring for timber flooring keeps it looking new and extends its life. Follow these tips to protect your investment:

1. Sweep and Clean Often: Dust and dirt can scratch timber floors, so use a broom or vacuum regularly. Avoid soaking the wood with water to prevent damage.

2. Lay Down Mats: Place rugs or mats in busy areas to guard against scratches and reduce wear.

3. Refinish When Needed: Polish and refinish your timber floors every few years to restore their shine and remove scratches.

4. Shield from Sunlight: Direct sunlight can fade timber over time. Use curtains or blinds to block UV rays.

5. Protect with Pads: Add soft pads under furniture legs to stop scratches and dents when moving furniture.

   
   

Why Hire a Flooring Contractor?

Installing timber flooring requires precision, which is why hiring a skilled flooring contractor makes sense. Contractors handle everything from preparation to finishing, ensuring your timber floors look flawless. They also offer advice on the best timber for your home and share tips to keep your floors in top shape for years to come.

Conclusion

Solid timber flooring is distinguished by durability, elegance, and the capability to preserve beauty for many years. Professional flooring contractors can always ensure that your floors are properly cared for, which means you also save time and effort. Whether you choose oak, jarrah, or Blackbutt, timber flooring is one of the smart and stylish choices available for your home.

Also Check: Best Wood Flooring Companies In Singapore With Reviews [Updated 2024]

Name: Floor Deck

Address: 50 Tagore Lane, #02-10K, Singapore 787494

Phone: +65 9621 6997