Tips on timber floor installation

Timber floor installation in Sydney is a popular choice for both residential and commercial properties due to its aesthetic appeal, durability, and versatility. Timber floors add warmth and character to a space, and with proper care and maintenance, they can last for many years.

There are several steps involved in installing a timber floor, and it is important to follow them carefully to ensure a successful outcome. In this blog, we will look at the process of installing a timber floor in Sydney, from choosing the right timber to preparing the subfloor and laying the floorboards.

Step 1: CHOOSING THE RIGHT TIMBER

The first step in installing a timber floor is choosing the right timber for your needs. There are several types of timber to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and suitability for different environments. Some popular choices for timber flooring include:

Solid Timber: Solid timber is a popular choice for timber flooring due to its durability and versatility. It is made from a single piece of wood and can be sanded and refinished multiple times, making it a long-lasting option

Engineered Timber: Engineered timber is made from layers of wood that are pressed together, with a layer of solid timber on the top. It is less prone to expansion and contraction than solid timber, making it a suitable choice for environments with fluctuating humidity levels.

Bamboo: Bamboo is a sustainable and eco-friendly option for timber flooring. It is highly durable and resistant to moisture, making it a good choice for areas prone to spills and moisture.

Step 2: PREPARING THE SUB FLOOR

Once you have chosen the right timber for your needs, the next step is to prepare the subfloor. This involves making sure the surface is level, clean, and dry. Any imperfections in the subfloor can affect the result, so it is important to ensure it is in good condition.

If the subfloor is not level, you may need to use a self-levelling compound to level it out. If the subfloor is uneven or damaged, it may need to be repaired or replaced before the timber floor can be installed

Step 3: LAYING THE TIMBER FLOOR 

There are several methods for laying a timber floor, including nail-down, glue-down, and floating. The method you choose will depend on the type of subfloor you have and the type of timber you are using.

Nail-down: The nail-down method involves nailing the timber floorboards to the subfloor using a pneumatic flooring nail gun. This method is suitable for solid timber flooring and can be used on concrete or plywood subfloors.

Glue-down: The glue-down method involves applying a layer of adhesive to the subfloor and then pressing the timber floorboards into place. This method is suitable for both solid and engineered timber flooring and can be used on concrete or plywood subfloors.

Floating: The floating method involves laying the timber floorboards on top of an underlay and then securing them together using a tongue and groove system. This method is suitable for both solid and engineered timber flooring and can be used on concrete, plywood, or existing timber subfloors.

Step 4: FINISHING THE TIMBER FLOOR 

Once the timber floor is laid, the final step is to finish it. This involves sanding and sealing the floor to protect it from wear and tear.

Sanding: Sanding the timber floor smooths out any imperfections and removes the top layer of wood, revealing the natural beauty of the timber beneath. It is important to use the right grit of sand.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your timber floor installation goes smoothly and results in a beautiful and long-lasting addition to your home.

The Beaches Timber Floors Sydney team are on call 5 days per week for a free measure and quote for your project – reach out to them today on 0401 184 444 or email