We are often asked why there are so many variables and price ranges for wood. Let us try explain.
To give clients a choice of different finishes and designs, the raw materials are processed in different ways to achieve a specific finish. This is some of the terminology you may come across in the search for your dream floor:
ENGINEERED WOOD FLOORING
Engineered wood is still real wood but it is a thinner veneer (top layer) of the wood you have chosen, bonded on to layers of other sections of solid wood. In engineered wood, the grain of each piece runs in a different direction to its adjacent layer to ensure durability and stability, reducing the wood’s natural tendency to expand and contract. It is recommended that engineered wood is used with underfloor heating.
The thickness of the top layer will indicate how many times the floor can be sanded. For example, a top layer of 6mm will allow sanding about 6 times if the right equipment is used. If you look after your floor and only need to sand once every 8 to 10 years, your floor will last up to 60 years.
SOLID WOOD FLOORING
Solid wood remains one of the most desirable flooring types to date, with its authentic feel and naturally organic properties.
As it’s name suggests, it is made with one complete piece of wood from the same species and grain. It is because of this, it is not usually recommended for underfloor heating, as it could split under extreme temperature changes.
The total thickness of the wood will indicate how many times the floor can be sanded. For example, a 20mm solid wood floor could potentially be sanded 20 times. Therefore, it may be the better choice for you if you think you will need to sand your floor more regularly due to high-traffic such as in a commercial environment where the floor is walked on by many people over a continuous number of hours.
GRADE
The grade of the wood indicates the number of visible natural features, such as knots, cracks, sap and tone variation, that are found in different parts of the tree. The more parts that can be used usually makes it more cost effective leading to less wastage and more planks per tree.
The following terms are generally used to classify the grades:
Prime Grade
The prime grade is the most uniform in appearance. It has minimal knots and restricted in size to pin knots with a consistent colour throughout the plank. This is perfect if you’re wanting a clean-cut and sophisticated look for a modern home or commercial property. Whether you choose to have prime grade flooring throughout your home for a consistent and fluid look or just use it in one room as part of a design feature, prime grade floors are truly gorgeous.
Select Grade
The select grade shows slightly bigger knots and a slightly more inconsistence in colour but ultimately still gives a stylish edge. Select retains a level of uniform and smoothness but has just a very slight natural look. If you want the clean look of a prime grade but wince at the price tag, then the select grade is your best alternative. Select grade floors are an excellent way of improving the overall look and worth of your home and works beautifully with preexisting home designs and or furniture. If you’re looking for a select floor in a bathroom or kitchen we would advise the use of an engineered floor every time. This avoids the floor expanding and contracting in heat changes as well as being easier to clean.
Natural/Character Grade
As the name suggests, this grade focuses on the natural and authentic look of the wood. Showing a fair number of knots and a more noticeable colour variation the natural grade gives a beautifully warm and homely aesthetic. The natural grade is perfect for any property by offering a relaxed look that can transform a lifeless room in to something more comfortable and inviting.
Rustic Grade
In terms of character and interest, a rustic floor delivers plenty. It’s bigger and chunkier knots and visible colour variation give the rustic grade floor its charming look. If a floor full of colour and life is what you need than the rustic grade is what you should choose. It has a stunning way of bringing a country look to a home and instantly gives that cosy and welcoming atmosphere to a home.
