6 Essential Tips for Timber Flooring in Your Home

Timber flooring adds warmth, elegance, and timeless appeal to any home or commercial space. It’s not surprising that many people prefer it— plus, it's durable and easy to maintain.

Whether you are renovating an existing property or installing new floors, choosing the right timber and maintaining it properly can make a significant difference in longevity and aesthetics. This shouldn’t be difficult and you can always seek professional help.

Below are six essential tips to help you select, install, and care for your timber flooring to ensure it remains in top condition for years to come.

1. Choose the Right Timber

Selecting the right type of timber is crucial, as different woods vary in hardness, durability, and visual appeal. Some important factors to consider when choosing timber flooring include:

• Hardness and Durability – High-traffic areas, such as hallways and living rooms, require more durable wood. The Janka hardness rating is a useful scale to determine a timber’s resistance to dents and wear. Hardwoods like Blackbutt, Spotted Gum, and Ironbark are excellent choices for busy households, while softer woods like Pine may not be as resilient.

• Aesthetic Preferences – The grain pattern, colour, and finish of the wood significantly impact the overall look of your space. Lighter timbers, such as Oak or Ash, create an airy and modern feel, while darker woods like Jarrah or Walnut provide a rich, traditional aesthetic.

• Sustainability and Sourcing – Opt for responsibly sourced timber certified by organisations such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or Australian Forestry Standard (AFS) to ensure your flooring choice is environmentally friendly.

• Solid vs. Engineered Timber – Solid hardwood is long-lasting and can be sanded multiple times, whereas engineered timber consists of a real wood veneer over a plywood core, offering better resistance to moisture and temperature fluctuations.

During the selection process, pay attention to high-traffic areas like the living room. Such areas need harder wood; bedrooms work well with softer, warmer tones.

2. Acclimate the Timber Before Installation

Timber is a natural material that expands and contracts in response to temperature and humidity changes. To prevent warping, cupping, or gapping after installation, it’s essential to allow the wood to acclimate to its new environment.

• Acclimation Process – Store the timber in the room where it will be installed for at least 7–14 days before installation. Stack the planks with proper airflow around them to ensure even acclimation.

• Check Moisture Levels – Use a moisture meter to compare the wood’s moisture content with that of the subfloor. The difference should be minimal (typically within 2–4%) to avoid future movement issues.

• Consider Climate Factors – In humid regions, timber tends to absorb moisture and expand, while in dry climates, it can shrink. Maintaining a stable indoor climate can help minimise these effects.

Acclimation is important as it helps to prevent future problems like shrinking, cracking, and warping, which impact the aesthetics of your floor.

3. Use the Right Installation Method

Proper installation is key to the longevity of your timber flooring. The best method depends on the type of flooring, subfloor material, and personal preference. The three main installation methods are:

• Nail-Down Installation – This is the traditional method for solid hardwood floors, where planks are nailed or stapled to a plywood subfloor. It provides excellent stability but requires professional expertise.

• Floating Floor Installation – Common for engineered timber, floating floors are not nailed or glued down but instead click together using a tongue-and-groove system. This method is quick and cost-effective, with an underlayment that provides cushioning and soundproofing.

• Glue-Down Installation – Ideal for both engineered and solid timber flooring, glue-down installation ensures a secure fit, reducing movement and noise. This method is commonly used over concrete subfloors.

Pay attention to the type of timber flooring and subfloor condition when selecting the right installation method.

4. Apply a Protective Finish

A good finish enhances the durability and aesthetics of timber flooring, providing resistance against stains, scratches, and moisture. There are several types of finishes to choose from:

• Oil-Based Finishes – These penetrate deep into the wood, enhancing its natural grain and providing a warm, rich look. However, they require more maintenance and take longer to dry.

• Polyurethane Coatings – Available in water-based and solvent-based options, polyurethane creates a hard, protective layer on the surface of the wood. It’s highly durable and ideal for high-traffic areas.

• Water-Based Finishes – These finishes dry quickly, emit less odour, and provide a clear, natural appearance. They are also more environmentally friendly than solvent-based options.

• Wax Finishes – While offering a soft, natural sheen, wax finishes require regular reapplication and may not be as resistant to spills and scratches as other finishes.

Remember to properly sand and clean the floor before applying a finish. The floor must be free from dirt, dust, and other contaminants.

5. Maintain Proper Cleaning Practices

Regular maintenance is essential to keep timber flooring looking beautiful and lasting longer. Here are some best practices for cleaning and maintaining your floors:

• Daily Cleaning – Sweep or vacuum daily to remove dirt, dust, and debris that can cause scratches. Use a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum with a hardwood floor attachment.

• Mopping – Use a damp (not wet) mop with a pH-neutral wood cleaner. Avoid excessive water, as timber is highly sensitive to moisture.

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals – Ammonia-based cleaners, steam mops, and abrasive cleaning tools can damage the finish and should be avoided.

• Protect from Scratches – Place felt pads under furniture legs, use rugs in high-traffic areas, and avoid walking on the floor with high heels or heavy shoes.

• Refinishing – Depending on the wear and tear, timber floors may need to be sanded and refinished every 5–10 years to restore their original beauty.

Always vacuum the floor before cleaning to remove dirt and debris, which can cause scratches. When cleaning, move in the direction of the wood grain for the best results.

6. Control Indoor Humidity

Timber flooring is highly sensitive to humidity fluctuations, which can lead to expansion, contraction, and warping. To maintain stability:

• Keep Humidity Levels Between 40–60% – Use a dehumidifier in humid climates and a humidifier in dry conditions to maintain optimal moisture levels.

• Ventilation – Ensure proper airflow by using exhaust fans, opening windows, or installing an HVAC system to regulate indoor humidity.

• Seasonal Adjustments – During winter, timber may contract, causing small gaps between planks. In summer, it may expand slightly. These seasonal changes are normal, but maintaining consistent humidity can minimise extreme shifts.

Address moisture sources like kitchens and bathrooms with exhaust fans and always use a hygrometer to monitor humidity in your home.

Final Thoughts on Timber Flooring

Investing in timber flooring is a long-term commitment that requires careful selection, proper installation, and regular maintenance. By choosing the right timber, acclimating it before installation, using the correct installation method, applying a protective finish, following proper cleaning practices, and controlling indoor humidity, you can enjoy stunning, durable floors for many years.

Whether you prefer the classic charm of solid hardwood or the versatility of engineered timber, these essential tips will help you make the most of your investment. With the right care, timber flooring not only enhances the beauty of your space but also adds value to your home or commercial property.

Learn more about timber flooring trends and discover how to make your floor stunning.