Here are the answers to some of the questions we here at Access Timber Flooring are commonly asked.

  • What is select and feature grade?

    This describes the grading of the timber. Select grade has limited variations and natural characteristics. Approximately 5-10%. Standard grade has more gum vein, spirals and natural characteristics. Approximately 10-20%. Standard and better grade generally consists of 85% select and 15% standard grade.

  • What is Janka scale?

    The Janka timber hardness scale is a universally recognised measurement systemfor the relative hardness of timber. The higher the Janka measure, the harder the timber (Jarrah is 8.5).

  • What are the different fixing methods?

    Plank on Ply Ply glued and nailed to the pre prepared concrete surface then the strip flooring glued and nailed to the plywood. Direct Stick Strip flooring glued and nailed (randomly) to the pre prepared concrete surface. This would normally be onto a moisture barrier. Parquetry Floors Glued directly onto the pre prepared concrete surface. This would normally be over a moisture barrier. Batten Floors 30mm battens glued and fixed to a recessed (50mm) slab. Then 19mm flooring is nailed to the battens. Generally done to replicate the joist sub floor.

  • Which fixing method is best?

    Access Timber Flooring recommends the plank on ply system, although none of the above methods are inferior.

  • What sort of coatings are there?

    There are 3 types of coating: solvent based, water based and oil based. These are applied to achieve gloss levels from matt to satin, semi gloss to high gloss.

  • What is the hardest wearing coat?

    The hardest wearing coat is the solvent based gloss. The higher the gloss level the more solids there are in the coating, thus making it harder wearing. However, marks are more evident on a gloss floor. Our team recommends a solvent based semi gloss finish for the best all-round performance.

  • Does the floor change colour?

    Over the first 6 to 12 months the varnish will darken as it reacts to light. This is noticeable when furniture or mats are moved. Likewise, if you resand your timber floor it will return to its original grain colour, but then darken over time.

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