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Allwood Timber Floors
12 Jamieson Street
Bowen Hills
Brisbane QLD
PO Box 3161
Newstead 4006
Ph 07 3257 3747
Frequently asked questions

Can I have a timber floor anywhere?

A timber floor can be installed in all areas other than bathrooms. We do not recommend installing timber floors here as the high levels of moisture (e.g. steam and condensation) will cause the timber to expand and the floor to react badly.

Will the timber floor I select look like the sample in the Display Centre?

Not exactly. Timber is a natural, not man-made, product and as each tree is unique you have to expect colour and character variations, so any sample can only be broadly representative of species and grade. This individualty is part of the beauty of a natural product which, after all, is an integral part of what makes timber such an attractive floor covering.

Should I choose a solid, traditional timber floor or pre-finished?

It really depends on your circumstances. A pre-finished floor does away with the on-site sand and polish and hence cuts down on the time taken and the inherent odours of the polishing process. In our experience, however, recoating a pre-finished timber floor some years later is not as simple as recoating a traditional solid timber floor due to the coatings involved. This can impact the floor´s longevity.

What is the difference between the grades of timber?

Any piece of timber may contain natural features such as gum veins, gum pockets or knots, and a grading system has been established within the timber industry which reflects the frequency with which these features appear. Using the most common grade classifications, timber will have fewer and fewer features as the grades move from ´feature´ through ´standard´ to ´select´. It is worth noting that the integrity of the timber does not change, only the occurence of features, so choices should be made based purely on aesthetics.

What coatings should I have in order to get the best result on my new or existing timber floor?

When choosing a coating for your floor you must take into consideration the type of traffic the floor will experience. A polyurethane finish is the most durable and will stand up to heavier traffic, while a water based finish, although emitting less odour when first applied, is less durable and wears a lot quicker. Water based finish is more popular in department stores and restaurants due to less outgasing and the shorter time frame in which it dries. However, a recoat is often required sooner to these finishes.

How durable would my timber floor be compared to other floor coverings?

Compared to carpets and lino floor coverings that have to be replaced after a few years, a solid timber floor can last you a life time.

Can I install a new floor over my existing timber floor?

Absolutely! As long as the existing floor is level and sound, you can lay a new floor over the top. However, bear in mind that the new floor installed will raise from 12mm to 19mm depending on the thickness of the floor you choose to have installed.

How long does it take to install and finish a timber floor?

Typically most domestic projects, from start to finish, take around four days. However, to allow the finish to harden we recommend you give the floor an extra day after we´ve left before you start putting any furniture on the new surface.

Is it safe enough for me to stay in my home during the process of sanding and polishing?

Because we use dustless sanding machines and some low irritant finishes, you don´t have to be inconvenienced by moving out. However, you may wish to sleep elsewhere for a few nights while the finishing process cures as the odours can be quite strong, depending on the finish used.

Is there much dust?

We have the latest sanding machines that minimise dust generation. However you should expect some dust on horizontal ledges and light fittings etc.

Will I get a ´fine furniture´ or ´mirror´ finish on my new floor?

Unless the timber is pre-finished it is not being polished in factory conditions and, as such, it is not realistic to expect a finish similar to that of fine furniture. There are always fine dust particles floating in the air which eventually fall to the floor and these can settle during the polishing process, but these will generally diminish over time. Down lights can also play a part in emphasising these dust particles or fine sanding marks. It needs to be remembered that, unlike furniture, a timber floor is meant to be walked on as well as admired!

How do I clean my timber floor?

Cleaning your timber floor is simple. All you need to do is give it a quick  going over with an electrostatic dust mop to remove surface dust, or occasionally a damp (and only damp!) mop using cleaning product that is suitably recommended for timber boards in warm water. The same diluted cleaning product can be used for spot cleaning. Steam mops are to be avoided at all costs! For more advice on caring for a timber floor click on the link below.

CLICK HERE FOR CARE INSTRUCTIONS

What guarantee do I have on my floor?

We give a seven (7) year guarantee against defects in workmanship. 

Is it true that a timber floor will enhance the value of my home?

Many real estate agents will confirm that solid timber floors are held in great regard by intending purchasers and investors alike, as a desirable feature in a home.

Are timber floors ecologically sustainable?

Yes, we use only timbers from sustainably managed plantation and regrowth hardwood forests in Australia.

CLICK HERE FOR ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES