Get free quotes from the best timber floors & flooring near me

Timber flooring has been a popular choice for homes and commercial spaces for centuries, and with good reason. Not only does it add a warm, natural touch to any room, but it's also durable, long-lasting, and easy to maintain. 

Whether you prefer the classic look of traditional timber flooring or the sleek, modern look of contemporary designs, there is a timber flooring option to suit your needs.

Keep reading to discover the best timber flooring options for your unique needs.

Overview

• Who lays wooden floors?
• Types of timber flooring
• Sustainable timber flooring options
• Timber flooring designs and styles
• Timber floor maintenance guide
• Installation and cost
• How long does timber flooring last? 
• How to choose the right contractor
• Does my contractor need to be licensed?
• Questions to ask your contractor

Who lays wooden floors?

In Australia, timber flooring can be installed by a variety of professionals, including flooring contractors, flooring companies, and carpenters.

Flooring contractors are specialists who are trained and experienced in installing all types of flooring, including timber flooring. They will typically offer a full range of services, from measuring and cutting the flooring to installation and finishing.

Flooring companies are businesses that specialise in the sale and installation of flooring products, including timber flooring. They may offer a wider range of products and services, including advice and design services.

Carpenters are skilled tradespeople who are trained in woodworking and construction. Some carpenters may offer flooring installation as part of their services, but it's best to confirm their experience and expertise with installing timber flooring before hiring them.

Types of Timber Flooring

There are several timber flooring types for homes, each with its own unique set of benefits and drawbacks.

Solid Timber Flooring

Solid timber flooring is made from 100% solid timber and is the most traditional type of timber flooring. It's known for its natural beauty and versatility, and is ideal for those who prefer a more traditional look. Are hardwood floors durable? Absolutely! However, timber floorboards can be more expensive and are susceptible to warping, shrinking, and expanding over time.

Engineered Timber Flooring

Engineered timber flooring is made from a combination of solid timber and other materials, such as high-density fibreboard. When it comes to solid timber flooring vs engineered timber flooring, the latter is more stable and is less prone to warping, shrinking, and expanding. It's also more affordable, making it a popular choice for those who want the look of solid timber flooring without the added cost.

Laminate Timber Flooring

Laminate timber flooring is a type of flooring that is made from a high-resolution image of real timber that is laminated to a base layer of fibreboard. It's a budget-friendly option that's easy to install and maintain, and comes in a variety of styles and designs. However, laminate timber flooring is not as durable as solid or engineered timber flooring and may not last as long.

Determining what is the best timber flooring for your home will therefore depend on your budget and also the area you’re placing it. The ideal timber flooring for kitchens and bathrooms will be engineered timber or bamboo, as they are more resistant to moisture than solid timber.

Sustainable Timber Flooring Options

Timber flooring is a natural and renewable resource that can be harvested from responsibly managed forests, making it an environmentally friendly option compared to other types of flooring. Additionally, many manufacturers use sustainable practices to reduce waste and minimise the environmental impact of their production processes.

If you’re seeking timber flooring for eco-friendly homes, your best options will be bamboo, reclaimed wood, cork, or a hardwood that possesses Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or Responsible Wood Certification (the Australian member of PEFC International). These organisations work to promote responsible forest management and ensure that the timber for flooring comes from sustainable sources.

Recycling and Reusing Timber Flooring

When your timber flooring reaches the end of its life, it can often be recycled or reused, making it a more sustainable option compared to other types of flooring. Many companies will take back old timber flooring and use it to create new products, reducing the amount of waste in landfills.

Timber Flooring Designs and Styles

The design and style of your timber flooring are important considerations, as they will play a major role in the overall look and feel of your space. From traditional designs to contemporary styles, there are many options to choose from with your timber flooring suppliers.

Traditional Timber Flooring Designs

Flooring designs such as herringbone and parquet, are timeless and classic. They add warmth and sophistication to any space, making them a popular choice for homes and commercial spaces.

Contemporary Timber Flooring Designs

Timber flooring designs for modern homes, such as wide plank and linear, offer a sleek touch to your space. They are perfect for those who want a more contemporary look for their house or commercial space.

Rustic Timber Flooring Designs

Rustic timber flooring styles, such as reclaimed and hand-scraped, are ideal for those who prefer a more natural, organic look. They add character to a room, making them a popular choice for homeowners or business owners.

Timber Flooring Colour Options

Timber floor colours range from light to dark, with everything in between. From natural tones to stained options, there is a colour to suit any taste and style.

Timber Flooring Finish Options

Timber floor finishes, such as matte, satin, and gloss, can also affect the overall look and feel of your space. Gloss finishes are more modern and reflective, while matte and satin finishes are more understated and natural.

Timber Floor Maintenance Guide

One of the biggest benefits of timber flooring is how easy it is to maintain. Here are a few steps to ensure its longevity.

Timber Floor Cleaning and Maintenance Tips

To keep your timber flooring looking its best, it's important to sweep or vacuum it regularly to remove dirt and debris. For spills or messes, use a damp mop to clean up promptly, and avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners that can damage the finish. Instead, use a purpose-made timber floor cleaner. If your timber flooring is prone to scratches or scuffs, consider placing rugs or mats in high-traffic areas to protect it.

Learn more: How to protect timber floors from dog scratches

Repair and Restoration of Timber Flooring

Over time, timber flooring repairs or restoration may be required, especially in high-traffic areas or homes with pets. Common issues include scratches, scuffs, and dents, which can be repaired using touch-up kits or by sanding and refinishing the floor. If your timber flooring is severely damaged, it may need to be replaced.

Refinishing Timber Flooring

Some solid hardwood and engineered hardwood can be refinished, which can not only improve their appearance but also extend their life. Refinishing involves sanding down the surface of the floor to remove any scratches or damage, and then applying a new finish. The frequency of refinishing will depend on the type of finish and the amount of foot traffic the floor experiences, but it's typically recommended every 5–7 years.

Installation and Cost

Installing timber flooring is a big investment, so it's important to consider all of the costs involved, including the cost of the flooring, installation, and any necessary tools or equipment.

Timber Flooring Installation Process

Installing timber flooring can be a DIY project, but it can also be quite challenging, especially if you're not familiar with the process. If you opt to hire a professional, they will typically measure your space, prepare the subfloor, and then install the flooring. The installation process can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the size of your space and the complexity of the installation.

How much do timber floors cost?

The cost of timber flooring in Australia can vary widely, ranging from approximately $50 to $200 per square metre, installed. The exact cost will depend on several factors, including the type of timber, the quality of the product, the size of the project, and the cost of labour.

For example, a lower-end option such as engineered timber flooring may cost around $50 to $100 per square metre, while solid hardwood timber flooring cost could be anywhere from $100 to $200 or more per square metre.

It's important to keep in mind that these estimates are general and may vary based on your specific needs and location. To get a more accurate timber flooring price, it's best to consult with a flooring contractor or company who can assess your project and provide you with a customised quote.

Timber Flooring Cost Comparison

When comparing the cost of different types of timber flooring, it's important to consider not just the initial price, but also the long-term cost of maintenance, repair, and refinishing. Solid timber flooring is typically more expensive upfront, but it can last for decades with proper care, making it a cost-effective option in the long run. Engineered and laminate timber flooring are more affordable upfront, but may need to be replaced sooner than solid timber flooring.

Learn more about prices in our flooring cost guide.

DIY vs Professional Installation of Timber Flooring

If you're considering a DIY installation, it's important to consider your experience level and the complexity of the installation. If you're not confident in your ability to install the flooring yourself, it's best to hire a professional. Professional installation can be more expensive, but it can also save you time and ensure that the job is done correctly.

How long does timber flooring last?

The lifespan of timber flooring depends on several factors, such as the type of wood, the quality of the finish, the level of maintenance, and the amount of traffic it receives. 

• Solid hardwood: Solid hardwood flooring is known for its durability and can last for decades or even centuries.with proper care and maintenance.
• Engineered hardwood: The lifespan of engineered hardwood flooring depends on the thickness of the veneer on top and how well it is cared for. On average, engineered hardwood flooring can last between 20 to 30 years.
• Bamboo and cork: Bamboo and cork flooring are known for their strength and durability, and can last for up to 25 years with proper care and maintenance.

Adequate care and maintenance includes regular cleaning, spot-cleaning spills and stains promptly, and avoiding excessive moisture and sunlight.

How to Choose the Right Contractor

Determining the most suitable contractor to install your timber flooring means finding someone who can complete the job to the highest standard within your budget.

Here’s how to find the best contractor for your needs:

1. Get Several Quotes

Enter the information outlining your timber flooring installation on Service.com.au, and we'll provide you with a list of local tradespeople who can help do the job.

2. Narrow Down Your Options

Service.com.au uses a three-tier badge system to help you make the best choice.

We recommend selecting a tradesperson with the highest level (badge 3 – ‘recommended’) from our three-step verification process.

3. Do Further Research

Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, check out the company’s online presence to get an idea of its reputation and service offering. View their website and social media pages to see customer reviews and the quality of their work in photos.

Does my contractor need to be licensed?

Yes, in Australia, timber flooring installers typically need to be licensed. The specific licensing requirements vary depending on the state or territory where the work is being carried out.

For example, in New South Wales, flooring installers must hold a valid Carpentry Licence issued by the NSW Department of Fair Trading. In Victoria, flooring installers must hold a valid Building Practitioner's License issued by the Victorian Building Authority (VBA).

Check your state government and local council websites to determine the licensing requirements in your area.

Questions to Ask Your Contractor

When deciding between several businesses to lay your timber floors, there are a number of questions you should ask to determine who will be most reliable, professional, and deliver the highest standard of work.

1. Do you have a licence?

As stated above, you should check the website of the relevant regulatory body in each state or territory to determine which type of licence is required to install your flooring.

2. Do you guarantee your work?

Ask about the tradie’s policy to discover what happens if they complete the work and it doesn't meet the initial details or the outcome isn't as promised. If they don’t guarantee their work, you may find yourself having to pay more for repairs or replacement down the track.

3. Do you have insurance?

If your contractor is uninsured and there's an accident at your property, you may not be covered. Always check if they have appropriate insurance and the value of their policy before they begin working on your deck. As a customer, you're entitled to view insurance documents before the job starts.

4. Can you show references?

A reputable business will always be willing to provide reviews, references, and examples of past work. If they're unable to offer these, you may be better off hiring another company.

5. What is your clean-up policy?

Be sure to find out the extent to which your tradesperson will clean up after your timber flooring is installed so expectations are clear.

6. What are your terms of payment?

Many businesses will have portable EFTPOS devices, but it's always good to clarify payment expectations from the beginning. You may need to pay a deposit upfront, pay in cash, or you’ll just receive an invoice.

Timber flooring is a classic and timeless choice for homes and commercial spaces, offering durability, beauty, and versatility. With proper maintenance and care, timber flooring can last for decades, making it a cost-effective option in the long run. And with its natural and renewable properties, it is also an environmentally friendly option. Whether you're considering a new flooring installation or simply looking to update your existing flooring, timber flooring is a great choice to consider.

To learn more, get in touch with local flooring installers in your area.

All the costs quoted were sourced at the time this article was written. They are to be used as an AUD cost guide and may vary locally, and are subject to market changes.