Flooring
Flooring
Flooring
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by
Timber Queensland Ltd
ACN 092 686 756 ABN 50 092 686 756
David Hayward 500 Brunswick Street
Timber Queensland Ltd Fortitude Valley Q 4006
PO Box 2014
Fortitude Valley BC Q 4006
Ph 07 3254 1989 Fax 07 3254 1964
INTRODUCTION
Scope 1
The flooring process 1
The owner’s choice 1
Additional resources 2
SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION
Sub-floor ventilation 16
Installation of strip flooring over Joists 18
Installation of strip flooring over existing timber and sheet floors 21
Installation of strip flooring over concrete 23
APPENDICES
APPENDIX 1 Moisture content and timber movement 36
APPENDIX 2 Measuring the moisture content of timber and sheet products 40
APPENDIX 3 Measuring the moisture content of concrete slabs 47
APPENDIX 4 Acoustic performance 49
APPENDIX 5 Installation checklist 51
APPENDIX 6 Trouble-shooting guide 53
Showrooms provide an excellent environment where clients not only see many types of floors and finishes but where valuable
information can be conveyed regarding floor systems, performance and care of timber floors.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
To complement this resource a series of five datasheets has been
produced covering sections 1 to 5 of this publication. The datasheets
are comprehensive but do not necessarily contain all the information
included in each section of this publication.
Due to this, a ‘continuous mirror finish’ cannot be expected from floor finishes. Localised shrinkage may also
occur when areas of flooring are exposed to heat sources such as fireplaces or sunlight through large doors
or windows. The overall movement and rate of movement of timber varies depending on the timber species
and cutting pattern of individual boards. Small moisture content variations in boards at the time of installation
and differing conditions within the house (i.e. from sun exposure or fireplaces) will also cause variation in
board movement.
species, but this varies from species to species. Grade, colour and board width dictate the floor’s appearance.
Australian Softwoods – to AS 4785 – Timber – Softwood – Sawn and milled products except Araucaria
(hoop pine) for which industry grades apply
Standard Grade for AS 4785
Thick-
Common cover
Species Colour Hardness
widths (mm)
ness
(mm)
Araucaria (Hoop) (Araucaria cunninghamii) Qld , NSW light straw soft 87,89,102,133, 19, 20,
152 21
Radiata (Pinus radiata) Vic, NSW, straw soft 104 19, 21
SA, WA
If the species or species mix contains a significant variation in colours the appearance of the floor will differ
depending on the cover width. Narrower boards tend to blend the colour variations together. Gapping between
individual boards during drier times is also less with narrower boards than it is with wide boards. A maximum
board width of 100 mm is recommended to limit potential gap size and other movement effects such as
cupping (edges of the board higher or lower than the centre).
End-matching is a process where a tongue and groove joint is provided at the ends of boards. This allows
joints to be placed between joists, resulting in less wastage than plain end flooring, which must have its ends
fixed over joists.
Ordering Flooring
When ordering timber flooring, the following details should be provided to the timber supplier:-
• species (or species mix)
• grade
• profile and end-joint type
• cover width
• thickness
• quantity (in linear metres)
Flooring is generally supplied within the moisture content range from 9% to 14%. For larger jobs in specific
environments a different range may be specified.
To calculate the linear metres of flooring required, the following method is recommended.
Total length of flooring required = area of floor (m2) x 1000 + Wastage
cover width (mm)
Allowance for waste should be approximately 5% for end-matched flooring and 10% for plain end butt joined
flooring.
In cooler climates slab heating may be present and due to the direct heating effect on the timber and
intermittent use of this type of heating system throughout the year, substantial seasonal movement can be
expected. Although strip flooring can be used, if care is taken with appropriate product selection and
installation practices, it may be preferable to use engineered timber flooring products where less dimensional
changes would be expected. Even with these products care is still necessary.
Oil-Based Finishes
Oil-based finishes (alkyd/oleoresins) are the more traditional types of finish manufactured by reacting
a natural oil (e.g. linseed and tung) with another chemical. Varnishes and the traditional tung oils fall
within this category and are associated with the polished and waxed timber floors of the past. These
types of finishes are still available and require greater regular maintenance than the other finishes.
However, with the use of acrylic floor polishes, they have become easier to maintain. These finishes
will darken with time. They are unlikely to edge bond boards.
The following table outlines the types of finish available and lists various characteristics of each.
Tung Linseed Oil modified Urethane 2 pack Single pack Polyurethane/ Polyurethane
oil oil based Urethanes oil/alkyd Polyurethane Polyurethane Acrylic (Single and two
varnishes (OMU) ‘Tung oil’ (moisture cured) pack)
Less wear resistant finish requiring more frequent High wear resistant finish Moderate to high wear resistant
maintenance May edge bond boards # . There is a finishes
Unlikely to edge bond boards # reduced risk of edge bonding when Unlikely to edge bond boards # when
applied over an appropriate sealer. applied over an appropriate sealer
6-24 hour drying by solvent evaporation 1-4 hour drying by chemical reaction 2-4 hour drying by evaporation and
Some tolerance to waxes Not tolerant to waxes reaction
Moderate to strong odour on application Strong odour on application Not tolerant to waxes
Avoid inhalation and contact Avoid inhalation and contact Minimal odour on application
Avoid inhaling cross-linkers and
hardeners
Matt to gloss levels Matt to very high gloss levels Matt to gloss levels
Darkens with age Darkens with age Less darkening with age
Generally ready for use 2-5 days from completion* Generally ready for use 2-3 days from Generally ready for use 2 days from
completion* completion*
*Varies with weather conditions and product. Full curing may take a longer time.
# Edge bonding relates to the finish acting as an adhesive and bonding board edges together. When board shrinkage occurs, this can
result in wide irregularly spaced gaps at board edges or splitting of boards.
Ideally, flooring should not be delivered to site until it can be immediately stored under permanent cover. If this
is not achievable, other precautions that are equally effective to prevent moisture uptake and excessive sun
exposure, will be needed.
Plastic wrapping is easily damaged and should not be relied upon to keep the flooring dry. If moisture
penetrates the plastic or timber is stored over a moist surface, subsequent moisture uptake can result in
significant swelling of some boards. Flooring should not be laid in this condition, as wide gaps at board edges
may result as boards re-dry. Wrapped packs should also be protected from excessive sun exposure as this
too can have a detrimental effect.
Grading rules for solid T&G strip flooring are contained in the following Australian Standards:-
AS 2796 – Timber – Hardwood – Sawn and milled products
AS 1810 – Timber – Seasoned Cypress pine - Milled products
AS 4785 – Timber Softwood – Sawn and milled products
If the material supplied does not meet all the above criteria, installation should not proceed until any
problem is verified and rectified.
moisture content can be thought of as the moisture Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Month
content that timber will approach under set conditions of
relative humidity and temperature. It is evident from Climatic effects on timber floors - These must be considered
these graphs that the climate may result in moisture when laying a floor.
contents that can be either higher or lower than the
average moisture content of the flooring that has been
supplied.
Relative humidity graphs for the major capitals throughout Australia are provided in figures below. Seasonal
variation about the average can be seen to be greater in some locations than others. For example the
seasonal variation in Sydney is much lower than Melbourne. Where there are greater seasonal variations,
greater seasonal movement (shrinkage and swelling) can also be expected.
90 90
80 80
Relative Humidity (%)
70 70
60 60
50 50
adjustment to climatic conditions associated with a Relationship between Temperature, RH and EMC.
locality and the seasonal movement that will occur in
that climate.
Internal Environment
Within a dwelling a number of differing climates can
develop, causing areas of flooring to respond differently
within the same dwelling. These include large expanses
of glass, fireplaces, refrigerators, air-conditioners,
appliances that vent warm air, the aspect of the house
and two-storey construction, all of which can have an
effect on the dimensional movement of floorboards.
When floors are exposed to the sun through large
glassed areas, protection should be considered before,
during and after construction. Evaporative coolers add
moisture to the air and raise the relative humidity,
resulting in moisture contents in the flooring that are
higher than under ambient conditions.
Greater localized shrinkage and possibly some cupping
can be expected with high sun exposure.
Araucaria (Hoop Pine) Flooring and Araucaria Floor Framing
Where Araucaria floors and floor framing are not fully enclosed it is necessary to seal the framing members
and lower surface of the floor boards to prevent attack from the Queensland Pine Beetle. Attack is specific to
the Araucaria species (including Bunya) and generally restricted to the area from Bundaberg to Murwillumbah
and east of the Great Dividing Range. In this region exposed framing and floors (including ventilated sub-floor
spaces) require sealing to meet the requirements of the QFS Technical Pamphlet No.1 and thereby the BCA.
The sealer provided needs to be a film-forming finish and this may also reduce the effects from rapid weather
changes.
Some movement usually occurs in timber floors after laying as the floor adjusts to the climate and although
floor finishes may retard moisture content changes, they will not prevent this movement. In applications where
greater movement is expected after finishing (e.g. from seasonal changes, use of wide boards, air-
conditioning installed after floor installation), particular care is necessary to ensure that the finish does not act
as an adhesive and bond a number of adjacent boards together. With subsequent shrinkage, wide gaps
between groups of four or five boards may occur or boards may split.
The way different timber species respond in a floor depends not only on their moisture content but also on the
rate at which they take up and lose moisture, the associated movement and also their density. High density
species are extremely strong and those that take up or lose moisture more quickly (such as Blackbutt) will
also follow seasonal moisture changes more closely than slower responding species (such as Spotted Gum).
Particular care is necessary to be able to accommodate expansion of the higher density species and in moist
localities this may necessitate providing small expansion gaps every 6 to 10 boards during installation, in
addition to normal expansion allowances in order to accommodate this movement. Lower density hardwoods
(e.g. Tasmanian Oak, Victorian Ash) and softwoods will, to some extent, compress at their edges when a floor
expands. With these timbers, normal expansion allowance is generally able to accommodate the expansion in
moist climates.
Where the average supplied moisture content of the flooring is near the expected average in-service moisture
content, acclimatisation is not necessary.
Acclimatising relies on each board being exposed to the in-service atmosphere and therefore packs must at
least be opened up and restacked in a way that allows airflow between each board. Acclimatising can only be
effective in an air-conditioned building if the air-conditioning is operating at the time or in dry localities during
drier periods. The species and period for which it is acclimatised will also influence effectiveness. For some
higher density species that are slow to lose or take up moisture, acclimatising may have little effect.
Acclimatising in dry climates does not negate the need to provide for floor expansion during periods of wet
weather and will not overcome poor drying practices.
A simple guide to pre-installation considerations is provided in the figure below which should be referred to in
conjunction with the preceding text.
Pre-installation considerations
Allow for future expansion
Laid in a MOIST IN-SERVICE Expected
average mc - additional expansion allowance
Flooring normally ENVIRONMENT 12.5% to 15%
- acclimatisation
supplied at an
average moisture NORMAL Expected No special LAY
Laid in a IN-SERVICE average mc
content of consideration FLOORING
ENVIRONMENT 10% to 12.5%
10% to 12.5%
Allow for future shrinkage
Laid in a DRY IN-SERVICE Expected
average mc - acclimatisation
ENVIRONMENT 8% to 10%
SUB-FLOOR VENTILATION
When the lower surface of timber floors or structural
sub-floors (over which a timber floor is laid) are
exposed to the ground and the space is enclosed (by
brickwork etc), the sub-floor space must be adequately
ventilated with permanent vents installed in the
masonry during construction. The humidity in an
enclosed sub-floor space can have a profound effect on
the performance of a floor. If conditions are very moist,
the lower surface of the boards may take up moisture,
causing substantial swelling. Differential movement
between the upper and lower surfaces of floor boards
may also cause boards to cup. Similarly, caution needs
to be exercised with timber floors laid in areas where
the microclimate is often moist. In such locations the Adequate sub-floor ventilation and a dry sub-floor space
floor may reach higher moisture contents than in other are a must for timber floor performance.
nearby areas and additional allowance for expansion of
the floor may be required (Refer Section 2 - Pre-installation Requirements). Timber floors should not be laid
over moist sub-floor spaces, and structural sub-floors (e.g. plywood) cannot be relied upon to prevent
moisture uptake in the T & G flooring if humidities in the sub-floor space remain high for extended periods.
Ventilation requirements
T & G floors should be provided with sub-floor ventilation that exceeds minimum BCA requirements. The
levels outlined in the BCA (currently limited to 6000 mm² per metre length of floor for higher humidity areas)
are primarily to limit the moisture content of sub-floor framing timbers, which can generally tolerate greater
fluctuations in moisture content, than timber floors. The recommended minimum ventilation for T&G timber
floors is 7500 mm2 per metre length of wall, with vents evenly spaced to ensure that cross ventilation is
provided to all sub-floor areas (refer to the following figure).
Where verandahs or decks are constructed outside the dwelling perimeter, care should be taken to ensure
that the amount of ventilation provided around the verandah or deck perimeter is equivalent to or greater than
the amount required for the adjacent external wall. Where ventilation is obstructed by patios etc., additional
ventilation should be provided to ensure that the overall level of ventilation is maintained and cross flow is
achieved.
If adequate natural ventilation cannot be provided to sub-floor spaces, a mechanical ventilation system should
be installed which replaces all of the air in this space on a regular basis, and prevents the formation of ‘dead-
air’ pockets.
If there are doubts over the sub-floor humidity (areas of high water table, reduced airflow due to minimum
clearances between the sub-floor framing and ground, external structures etc.) again a polyethylene
membrane laid over the soil should be considered (taped at joints and fixed to stumps and walls). As
discussed above, this can significantly reduce moisture uptake by the sub-floor air. Increased levels of
ventilation should also be considered in such instances. With dwellings on sloping blocks that have enclosed
sub-floor spaces, the possibility of seepage should be taken into consideration and appropriate control
measures taken prior to the installation of the floor.
The drainage system provided to the dwelling site, should ensure that run-off water will drain away from the
building perimeter (not towards it) and that run-off water is prevented from entering the sub-floor space. The
ground beneath a suspended floor should also be graded so that no ponding is possible. Where springs or
aquifers are present (e.g. exposed by earthworks on sloping sites) and cause water to enter the sub-floor
space, a closed drainage system should be installed under the dwelling to remove this water. The ventilation
system will not cope with this level of moisture in the sub-floor space.
Sub-floor Framing - Bearer size, floor joist size and flooring spans
The size of timber members used to support the flooring boards
can be determined from AS 1684 - Residential timber-framed
construction. For end-matched flooring profiles, joists with a
minimum thickness of 35 mm may be used. Where plain end
flooring is butt joined at floor joists, 45 mm or 50 mm thick joists
are recommended to reduce splitting problems at butt ends.
Top (face) nailed floors may be fixed into either seasoned or Timber floors are successfully laid over a range of
solid timber and engineered joist systems.
The allowable span of timber flooring is dependent on the timber species, density, grade, thickness and
whether or not the flooring is end matched. The following table gives the acceptable joist spacing and
maximum spans for various flooring products when fixed to timber joists. Maximum board span (the distance
between where the timber is supported) needs to be considered in installations where flooring is at an angle to
the joists, as this increases the board spans.
Allowable Joist Spacing and Maximum Span of Floorboards
Laying
The moisture content, size and profile of the flooring should be checked (Section 2 – Pre-installation
assessment) prior to laying. If it is identified that the moisture content is not correct or the boards do not fit
together properly, or are otherwise considered to not meet the specified grade, the installer should contact the
supplier to resolve these issues before commencing laying. Similarly, any board found during laying that is
considered outside the grade specification should not be laid.
Cork intermediate expansion joints blend in well with timber Particularly for wide floors or in moist climates small regular gaps at
floors. provide the additional expansion allowance needed. These often
close during humid periods.
Fixing of floors
Boards with cover widths of 65 mm or less should be top (face) nailed with one or two nails at each joist.
Boards with cover widths over 65 mm should be top (face) nailed with two nails at each joist. Secret fixing with
a single nail or staple per joist is suitable with secret nail profile end-matched boards having nominal cover
widths not greater than 85 mm. The recommended minimum fixing sizes are shown in the following table.
INSTALLATION OF STRIP FLOORING OVER EXISTING TIMBER AND SHEET FLOORS ON JOISTS
Assessing the Existing Floor
Timber T & G flooring may be laid over existing T & G or sheet floors (plywood or particleboard). Where the
existing floor is structurally sound, either overlay flooring (generally 11 mm to 14 mm thick) or structural
flooring (generally 19 mm to 21 mm thick) can be laid. Floors may be fixed into the joists or with shorter fixings
at reduced centres into the existing floor only. In instances where there is doubt over the structural adequacy
of the existing floor, defective boards or sheets should be replaced to make the existing floor structurally
sound, or structural flooring fixed through to the joists can be used. To provide a level surface, top (face) nails
in existing flooring should be re-punched and the existing floor rough sanded. Adhesives require a clean,
structurally sound floor that is free from moisture, loose particles and contaminants. It is also particularly
important that if a new floor is laid at 90° to an existing floor, the existing floor must be structurally sound and
level. In some instances sheet sub-floors (substrates) can sag between joists and if not leveled the sagging
will show through to the new floor.
It is also necessary to check that the existing floor moisture content is appropriate to accept the new floor. The
cause of any excess moisture (wetting during construction, leaks, inadequate sub-floor ventilation, etc) needs
to be addressed prior to installation. Moisture meters are unpredictable in sheet flooring and this may
necessitate oven dry testing. Prior to laying, the existing floor should be of similar moisture content (within a
few per cent) to the new floor.
Squeaking present in an existing T & G floor may be reduced by providing a bead of polyurethane flooring
adhesive to fill any gaps between the underside of flooring and tops of joists (caused by cupping, shrinkage
etc). Further reductions may be achieved by fixing a seasoned batten (approximate dimensions 35 x 45 mm),
Installation
Installation of flooring should not be done until other construction activities (particularly wet trades) are
complete and after the building is roofed and enclosed, with the temperature and humidity as close as
possible to the expected in-service conditions. Expansion gaps of 10 mm should be provided at all walls and
other fixed obstructions, which are parallel to the run of floor boards. Intermediate expansion joints should
also be provided in larger floors (width at right angles to boards exceeding 6 metres), to give an equivalent
gap of 10 mm every 6 metres (approx. 1.5 mm every 800 mm).
Fixing flooring through sheet floors and into the floor joists will provide a more robust fixing and is particularly
appropriate where greater expansion in the floor is expected after installation. Alternatively, if expansion after
installation is expected to be small then mechanical and adhesive fixing into the sub-floor (substrate) may be
used.
For secret fixing of structural flooring boards, secret nail profile boards should be used (maximum cover width
of 85 mm) with one fixing per board at the appropriate spacing. For (top) face nailing, standard profile or
secret nail profile boards may be used. Boards exceeding 65 mm cover width, which are top (face) nailed,
require two nails per board at each fixing.
Minimum Secret Fixings of T& G Flooring to Sheet Sub-floor (Substrate) over Joists
When staple or nail fixing at close centres is being used, provide a cushion of polyurethane flooring adhesive
between the two floors to minimise possible squeaks. This is achieved by using a continuous bead of
adhesive at 90° to board length, midway between fixing points. Where polyurethane flooring adhesive is used
to provide much of the fixing, staples may be spaced up to 450 mm apart. Note that flooring cleats (as used
with Powernailer) of a similar length may be used in lieu of staples.
Methods to lay timber floors over concrete slabs include battens, direct adhesive fix and over plywood. Direct adhesive fix should be
undertaken by professional floor installers.
Installation
When floors are to be fixed over a plywood sub-floor, overlay or structural flooring may be used. For fixing to
battens, structural flooring (19 mm or thicker) should be used. The plywood sub-floor or battens need to be at
a moisture content within a few per cent of the flooring at the time of installation.
As an added protection against moisture from the slab (from slab edge effects, beam thickening etc) or minor
building leaks, a 0.2 mm thick polyethylene or poured chemical membrane over the slab is recommended.
The polyethylene should be lapped by 200 mm, taped at the joints and brought up the walls (or fixed columns
etc) above the top of the flooring. The polyethylene is then covered by the skirting. Note that fixings of
plywood sub-floors or battens through the polyethylene is not considered to reduce the overall effectiveness of
the membrane.
The table below outlines the minimum spacing and fixing details of the flooring to the plywood sub-floor. When
staple fixing at close centres is being used, provide a cushion of polyurethane flooring adhesive between the
two floors to minimise possible squeaks. This is achieved by using continuous bead of adhesive at 90° to
board length, midway between fixing points. Where polyurethane flooring adhesive is used to provide much of
the fixing, staples may be spaced up to 450 mm apart. Note that flooring cleats (as used with Powernailer) of
a similar length may be used in lieu of staples.
Minimum Secret Fixings of T& G Flooring to Plywood Sub-floor (Substrate) over a Slab
It is important to remove any materials that may potentially impact on either the sanding or coating process.
Additional care should be taken with silicone based sealants that may have been dropped onto the floor.
These products can potentially be widely spread through the sanding process impacting on the bond
between the coating and the timber.
Protection
During the sanding and finishing process it is imperative that access to the area of the work be restricted. Any
trades working in or around the area can potentially generate dust, wet the floor, introduce silicone based
mastics and sealants, walk over the area or generally contaminate it. Clear instructions should also be given
to the owner or occupants regarding access, opening windows which may blow dust over the area and time
required for coating systems to adequately cure.
SANDING
The sanding operation will vary based on the
condition of the floor and the hardness of the flooring
species. Where the floor is being sanded for the first
time, the sanding process is made up of a number of
separate sanding stages, which generally start with a
course paper and progress to a relatively fine grade of
paper. It should be noted that the sanding process is
effectively scratching off the surface of the boards,
and the reduction in grades of paper means that you
start with a severe scratching action and finish with a
more subtle scratching action. During the sanding process progressively finer papers are used.
When the original starting point is reached the drum is again gradually raised off the floor. The machine is
then moved to the right or left hand side of the first path ensuring an overlap to the first cut path. Sanding
continues in that direction, sanding strips and maintaining a similar overlap in each forward and backward
pass. When the limit of accessibility has been reached in the corner of the room, the machine is brought back
to the starting point and the remainder of the floor is sanded in the same direction and manner but to the
opposing side of the first cut. That is, if sanded to the left of the first cut, sanding then takes place to the right
of that first cut, ensuring that there is an overlap of around 200mm between the two sides of the floor.
The second pass is carried out on the opposite diagonal to Pass 1 using a similar grade paper.
At the completion of the level or basic sanding the boards should be generally smooth and free from cupping
and mismatching of surface levels between adjacent boards. If this has not been achieved the floor will
require additional passes to achieve this state.
The sanding drum should never contact the floor unless moving forward or backward. Doing so will cut a
groove into the floor (drum mark), which may not be recoverable. Specialist equipment and manufacturers
recommendations, and user instructions should be followed.
Edging
The sanding machine will not be able to sand the
boards along the edges of the room, in corners or
areas of reduced access such as wardrobes etc. In
these areas the boards need to be sanded level and
generally blended into the body of the floor. For
these areas an edge sander is used. The machine
used may vary from either a disc, orbital or belt
sander. In all cases, care is necessary to ensure the
operation does not dig grooves into the boards and
the finished edge is level with the body of the
boards.
On new and old floors, in good clean condition, finer grit papers are usually sufficient for the purpose of
edging.
It may be necessary in areas of very limited access or at the corners of the room, to hand scrape the floor.
The scraping action should always be in the direction of the grain with the surface being hand sanded or
machine sanded with a smaller machine i.e. orbital sander. With orbital sanders too much pressure or use an
overly aggressive grade of paper can result in deep swirl marks, which will show up in the finish. Once again,
care needs to be taken to blend in these hand scraped areas with the body of the floor.
This process is repeated following the second sanding process of the body of the floor.
Finish Sanding
The finish sanding operation involves two separate stages of operation.
Cleaning
The floor finish will be easily contaminated with any dirt, dust or other extraneous matter left on the floor. It is
essential that the area be thoroughly cleaned / vacuumed, paying particular attention to any areas which may
have caught dust during the sanding process such as window sills, picture rails, skirtings, power and light
switches, light fittings, handrails, etc. The floor needs to be well lit with adequate ventilation. It is important
not to have draughts blowing across the floor during the process as they may well introduce contaminates
from outside of the actual working area.
Cutting In
Using a clean, good quality brush, cut in the finish around
the perimeter walls and any other obstructions or areas
which may not be accessible to the main applicator. The
cutting in should extend out approximately 150 mm into the
body of the floor so that the applicator is not required to
venture too close to the skirtings and other limited access
areas. If any bristles fall out of the brush into the finish,
remove immediately.
Filling/Stopping
It is recommended when coating parquetry floors, that filler be trowel applied following the first coat. This aids
in reducing the phenomena known as "quilting" where the finish does not flow across joints at board or
parquetry edges. Filling of parquet floors may be carried out prior to or following the application of the initial
sealer or first coat and is at the discretion of the floor sander. It is not a recommended practice to fill tongue
and groove timber floors.
Any nail holes not previously filled and any cracks or other open faults should now be filled with a suitable
filling compound that is compatible with the finish type. (Note: insure the coating system is dry) Generally, a
non-oil based filler is best which is suitably colour matched to the timber.
The filler should be installed with a clean bladed applicator. Ensure the filler slightly overfills the hole and has
been fully pushed into the void. If the material is not completely filling the void, it may potentially come loose
in service. Clean off any filler that is spread over the floor surrounding the hole. Any excess will be sanded
away in the light sanding between coats.
Second Coat
The floor should again be edged with a clean brush coming
out some 150 mm or more into the body of the floor. The
application process is as per the first coat with the
applicator being worked along the full lengths of the boards
and lightly feathered at the outer edge of each strip of
application.
Additional Coats
Any additional coats shall follow the same process of light
sand of the previous coat, thorough cleaning and
application of the coating. Typically a three coat system is
utilised, however all manufacturers’ recommendations
should be followed in regards to number of coats and sand
paper grades, in addition to any requirements of the Application of the second coat.
specifier. Various water and oil based coating systems
require a finer grit of paper between coats as compared to
the solvent based products.
An appearance can be expected that is free from split boards and wide gaps between boards that may be
irregularly spaced across the floor. Irregularly spaced wide gapping may occur from either the edges of
boards being bonded together or from a proportion of boards being high in moisture content at the time of
laying.
Minimal Squeaking
A small amount of noise can be expected from most timber floors, when walked on. Noises can occur from
movement of one board edge against another or from boards moving on nails. A floor is often more noisy
during drier weather due to loosening at the joints.
Indentations
Timber strip floors can be expected to show some indentations depending on the hardness of the species
used, volume of traffic and foot ware worn.
Some imperfections that could be expected to some degree in a floor but which should also be assessed
include:- sanding quality; gloss variation; dust, insects and debris; bubbles and gel particles; coat leveling.
Another aspect that should be considered is the amount of Floor mats at doorways provide a simple means of limiting
the amount of grit from entering the home.
direct sunlight that is reaching the floors. Direct intense
sunlight can contribute to gapping and possible cupping of boards. It will also cause the colour of both boards
and finish to change with time. Some floor finishes are more prone to darken with age and direct sunlight
accelerates this process. Filtered sunlight through sheer curtains or blinds provides an effective means of
slowing the colour change processes and is also effective in controlling gap size and possible cupping. In
some instances it may be decided that window coverings will not be used, and if the sunlight has not been
controlled by patio roofs or awnings then floors rugs can be used.
Maintenance Plan
Establishing a regular cleaning program will greatly assist in keeping floors in pristine condition. There are
many aspects that affect how often the floor requires cleaning and these include the degree of grit present
(particularly from children and pets), the level of traffic and general conditions of the area outside the house.
Spills should be mopped up when they occur and any leaks must be attended to immediately. Failure to
For regular cleaning of domestic floors an antistatic mop provides an effective means of collection dust and
grit. Continual walking on a dirty floor will quickly damage the finish. If a vacuum cleaner is used then the
condition of the brushes should be regularly checked. If they have worn thin, contact of the metal head on the
floor can result in scratching.
On a monthly basis floors can also benefit from damp mopping. Providing the mop is only damp and the finish
is in good condition, mopping carried out correctly will not affect either the finish or the timber. Damp mopping
provides an effective deep clean and should be undertaken with a neutral pH wood floor cleaner or product
recommended by the finish manufacturer. Harsh detergents or abrasive cleaners are to be avoided. After
wetting the mop it should be wrung out until it is moist and the floor can be mopped in this condition. Using
clean water, a final mopping with a mop wrung out till it is ‘dry’ may be used to further remove excess
moisture on the boards. Periodically the protective pads on furniture legs should also be check to ensure that
they are clean or in need of replacement.
Re-coating
Timber floors are subject to different wear patterns and it is in areas of higher wear that there will initially be
signs that the floor requires re-coating. It is important to ensure that excessive wear has not occurred if a total
re-sand and re-finish is to be avoided. The finish should be inspected in the high wear areas and if a few
drops of water bead on the surface then the finish is still intact and may require cleaning rather than re-
coating. If however, after a few minutes the water begins to soak in and the timber colour darkens, then the
finish is partially worn and re-coating should be undertaken. It is important that the details of the original
coating system can be made available to the sander and finisher to ensure compatibility between coats.
Moisture Content
For timber products such as flooring the amount of moisture present or its moisture content is defined as the
mass of water present in the timber divided by the mass of the timber with all water removed, expressed as a
percentage. The mass (measured in grams or kilograms) of water present can be determined from the
difference in the mass of the timber with water (initial mass) to the mass of timber with the water removed
(oven dry mass). Hence the following equation is used to determine the moisture content of timber:-
The structure of the cells in timber can be likened to a number of drinking straws
glued together. If the straws were full of water it could be expected that the mass of
water contained in the straws would be greater than the mass of the drinking straws
alone. In such a case the moisture content as calculated above would exceed 100%.
In a tree the moisture content may be as low as 40% but can be as high as 180%.
Green off saw timber could therefore have moisture contents of 180%, which means
the timber contains 1.8 kg of water for every 1.0 kg of dry timber that was present. In
softwoods such as radiata pine and Araucaria the average moisture contents of 180
% or more often occur. In many of our common hardwoods the moisture content may
be no greater than 70%. Cypress, a softwood that grows in drier areas, may only
have average moisture contents of 45%. There can also be sizeable variations in
moisture content between the outer sapwood of a tree to the inner heartwood.
When we refer to seasoned timber, we are usually referring to timber that has moisture contents in the range
from 9% to 14%. This range has been chosen because timber in coastal Australia will usually remain within
this moisture content range, when used internally. Whether timber is dried by the air or in a kiln there is
always a small variation in the moisture contents of individual boards (usually about 5%). Due to these
variations, some boards will take up moisture from the air after being put into service, while others may lose
moisture. When timber takes up moisture it expands and when it loses moisture it shrinks. The small moisture
variations present at the time of flooring manufacture therefore translate into small differences in board widths
as board moisture contents adjust to be in balance with the humidity in the air.
The amount of shrinkage that occurs radially (i.e. in a direction that radiates out from the center of the log)
differs from that occurring tangentially (at right angles to the radial direction). Therefore, in a backsawn
A useful measure of movement is what is termed the “unit tangential movement” (U.T.M.). This is the
percentage dimensional change for each 1% change in moisture content between 3% and the fibre saturation
point for the particular species. For example Brush box has a U.T.M. of 0.38. Therefore a 3% increase in
moisture content could on average be expected, to cause an 80 mm wide backsawn floor board to increase in
size by:
0.38 x 3% x 80/100 = 0.9 mm.
When dealing with seasoned timber, the U.T.M. can be used to estimate anticipated movement however
actual movement is often less than the estimate, due to the presence of quartersawn material and with regard
to applications such as flooring, some compression of the timber often occurs. Therefore care is necessary
when applying these figures. Tables of U.T.M. are available from state timber organisations.
a room at 25°C and the relative humidity is 65% then the 14.0
13.5
timber will in time try to reach approximately 12%moisture 13.0
content. 12.5
12.0
11.5
11.0
Obviously, humidity and temperature will change on a daily 10.5
closing of gaps between adjoining boards at different times of Relative Humidity (%)
70
humidity fluctuations and average moisture contents are
given in the adjacent graphs. 60
Days
may result from a relatively quick and sustained change in
weather conditions, can initially be quite rapid but the rate
of increase then slows over time. This aspect is also
reflected in timber floors. Floor installers sometimes
comment that a floor may have shrunk a lot in the first week
or so after laying but that it hadn’t moved much since then.
Moisture content
Moisture content is simply the mass of moisture present in
wood divided by the mass of the wood with no moisture in it,
expressed as a percentage. What’s important about the
moisture content in timber is that the board width will increase
with increasing moisture content and will decrease with
decreasing moisture content. At the time of machining cover
width variations are usually minimal and subsequent
variations that occur in board widths are usually due to
changes in moisture content. Note that it is often the current
and future variations in board width that is of primary
importance and one important purpose of moisture content
testing is to indicate what future movement can be expected.
By simply looking at the end of a pack of flooring, that may be Initial mass 32.63 gm
a month or so old, it is often possible to obtain information Oven dry mass 29.49 gm
about the moisture content of the timber within the pack even MC = 32.63 – 29.49 x 100% = 10.65%
without using a moisture meter. 29.49
For example in a three month old pack of flooring, some moisture changes are likely to have occurred and if
the nominal cover width of was 80 mm and:-
- board widths measure between say 79.6 mm and 80.4 mm then the material is likely to have been dried
to within narrow moisture content bounds and should perform well in service.
- board widths range from say 78 mm to 81 mm and some boards are cupped, then the material is likely to
have been dried to quite wide moisture content bounds and the floor is likely to show some wide gaps at
board edges along the length of the board and near end matched joints.
- board widths range from say 80 mm to 84 mm then some of the material may have become wet after
manufacture.
It is therefore important when considering moisture content to also take the board widths into consideration.
Australian standards that cover the moisture content of flooring vary in their limits as this depends on the
species. The table below provides some information on species types, the number of the applicable standard
and the moisture content ranges applicable to flooring.
Species Group Moisture Content Bounds Number of the
(moisture content anywhere within a board) applicable standard
Hardwood 9% to 14% AS 2796
Softwood 9% to 14% AS 4785
Cypress 10% to 15% AS 1810
Capacitance moisture meter - Measures average Resistance moisture meter - Measures moisture content
moisture content – Need to set species density. between the pins – Need to correct reading for
temperature and species.
Measurements by different methods
In any piece of flooring the moisture content is likely to vary to some
extent down the length of the piece and from the outer surfaces (case)
to the center (core). With regard to case to core differences some
methods of measurement are able to measure this while others can
only measure the average moisture content of the board. This can be
an important consideration when choosing a measuring method as
case to core variations or the difference between upper and lower case
may need to be determined. At other times it may be important to gain
many measurements quickly in order to gain an appreciation of the
average moisture content. In cases of dispute, accuracy may be of
prime importance.
- (Note: If the sample is from a board on the top, bottom or edge of the pack, it should be marked as
being an outside board.)
- The samples should be individually wrapped in “glad wrap” or similar to reduce moisture content
changes during transport.
- The samples should be stored in a cool place and delivered to the testing facility within 24 hours.
• Testing Procedure
- From the 300 mm long pack samples, test pieces are cut with a length between 15 mm and 30mm
so that the required mass is achieved to suit the accuracy of the mass measuring equipment. If the
equipment measures to 0.1g then a test sample of at least 50gm is required. The sample may be
less than 50g if the equipment measures to 0.01g.
- The initial masses of the test pieces (and usually the cover widths) are recorded. The test pieces
are placed in the oven for at least 24 hours and then reassessed at four hour intervals until there is
minimal change in mass. For longer samples in denser species times of 48 hours or so may be
required. The mass after drying in the oven (i.e. oven dry weight) is recorded.
- The moisture content is then calculated for each test piece by applying the following equation.
- Moisture content (%) = ((Initial mass – oven dry mass)/ oven dry mass) x 100 %
- For example if the initial mass is 57.6 g and the oven dry mass is 43.3 g then the moisture content
is:- Moisture content (%) = (( 57.6 g – 49.3 g)/ 49.3 g) x 100 % = 16.8%
- This method provides the average moisture content for the test pieces. Case and core
measurements can be obtained by cutting the appropriate sections out of larger test pieces prior to
testing.
• Interpreting results
- The sampling method outlined above aims to capture the variation present in a pack of timber and
from this it can be assumed that most of the timber within the pack will fall within the upper and
lower moisture content measurements.
RESISTANCE METER
• Principal of operation
- The electrical resistance of timber reduces as the moisture in timber increases. These meters
measure the flow of electricity between two pins where the timber acts as an electrical resistor
between the pins. The scale on the moisture meter is graduated to read moisture content. Wood
temperature affects the readings and for this reason wood temperature above or below 20°C,
requires correction to the reading. Temperature correction if not already taken care of by the meter
is applied before species correction. Species correction is necessary as two different timber species
at the same moisture content may not have the same electrical resistance. Meters are generally set
up relative to one species and that is Douglas Fir (Oregon) and species corrections are then applied
for other species. There comes a point where the water in timber is so low that the resistance is
difficult to measure accurately or on the other hand sufficiently high that the resistance does not
change greatly and is prone to greater errors. These meters generally provide reliable results
between 6% and 25 % moisture content.
• Types of meters
- A wide variety of meters are available. All have two pins that are used to penetrate the timber but
the pins may vary in length from approximately 6 mm in length up to 50 mm. The longer pins are
often insulated up to the pointed ends to prevent surface moisture effects from interfering with core
measurements. Those with longer pins are also usually of the ‘sliding hammer’ type, which provides
a means of driving the pins into the timber. The sophistication of the meters varies greatly in terms
of features such as inbuilt temperature correction, preprogrammed species calibration and depth
indication. Many of the meters now come with a calibration block.
• Using resistance meters
- The calibration of the meter should be checked prior to use and this is usually done with a test block
that contains electrical resistors that correspond to the moisture contents specified on the test block.
- Measurements are then taken in clear timber at least 400 mm from the ends of boards.
- Some meters require measurements to be taken with the pins running down the length of the board
while with others the pins are to run across the width of the board (check with the manufacturer’s
manual).
- The pins are driven to the desired depth to which the moisture content reading is required. As case
and core measurements can be significantly different, use of meters with short pins may require
boards to be cut and the pins inserted in the end grain to provide a better estimate. In high density
timbers holes may need to be drilled for the pins.
- The pins need to be in firm contact with the timber, otherwise low readings may occur.
- Readings should be recorded to the nearest 0.5% and read shortly after penetration.
- Each reading is to be corrected for wood temperature first (provided this is not done automatically)
and then for species (providing the species has not been set on the meter).
- Refer to Table 1 for temperature correction factors and species correction factors for some common
commercial species. Additional temperature and species correction factors are available in AS
1080.1.
CAPACITANCE METER
• Principal of operation
- These meters measure an electrical property called the ‘dielectric constant’ and in so doing an
electric field produced by the meter and the presence of the timber on which the meter is positioned,
form a ‘capacitor’ type of arrangement. The electric field can penetrate deep into the timber but
meter readings are biased toward moisture in the surface layers. Both the moisture content and the
density of the timber affect this electrical property. The effective range of capacitance meters is from
approximately 0% to 30% moisture content. The more sophisticated meters can be adjusted for
timbers of different densities. Less expensive meters do not have density compensation and for
these meters corrections to meter readings must be applied based on the density of the species
being tested. Such meters are usually preset to be more suited to softwoods and lower density
hardwoods and this can cause limitations with higher density species (i.e. large correction factors
are necessary).
• Types of meters
- Meters are imported from overseas and range from those with few features to those with a wider
range. Features may include settings for timber density (or specific gravity) and timber thickness as
well as the ability to store readings and apply some statistics to the results. It is necessary to ensure
that the meter is going to meet your specific needs and if being used with higher density hardwoods
then timber density (or specific gravity) adjustment must be seriously considered.
• Using capacitance meters
- The appropriate meter settings for density and board thickness etc should be applied and the meter
checked for calibration.
- The density (specific gravity) is often calculated differently for different reasons (i.e. green density,
density at 12% moisture content or basic density). Specific gravity is the density of a material
divided by the density of water (approximately 1000kg/m3). It is necessary to obtain from the meter
supplier the relevant figures applicable to the meter being used. Table 2 provides densities at 12 %
moisture content.
- Measurements are then taken in clear timber away from knots etc.
- Some meters require measurements to be taken with the meter in a particular orientation on the
board (check with the manufacturer’s manual).
- The plate of the meter must be in firm contact with the board before a reading is taken.
- Readings should be recorded to the nearest 0.5%. If no density (specific gravity) settings are
available then these meter reading needs correcting.
Preferences of test method vary considerable and each has its limitations. Meters or use of a hygrometer are
often preferred as they are relative quick and easy to use and results may be recorded. However, as with any
electrical instrument the accuracy of the instrument needs to be taken into consideration and periodic
calibration checks are necessary. Test methods relating to the polyethylene film test, moisture meters and
hygrometer are outlined below.
Resistance meters
The resistance meter works in a similar manner to a timber moisture meter, however in order to get the
electrodes into the concrete, two holes need to be drilled and these are generally about 6 mm in diameter, 25
mm deep and 150 mm apart. To provide a conductive path an electrically conductive gel must fill the holes
prior to insertion of the electrodes. Prior to filling the holes it is important that the dust is removed from the
holes and that the holes are filled without air pockets. The meter readings provide the average moisture
content of the concrete between the electrodes. This method is convenient in that it provides a reading at the
press of a button and the meters do not usually require frequent recalibration. However, the method does rely
on knowing the mix and type of concrete used and this is not always known.
When using this method the following should be taken into consideration:-
• The method is only suitable where there is no risk of the drilling impinging on plumbing pipes, electrical
cables or heating elements.
• Readings should be taken after the electrodes have been in the gel for about half a minute.
• Readings should be taken along external walls at 3 m intervals and within 1 m of corners.
• Where columns or slab thickenings are present, further readings should be taken.
• Three tests should be taken in rooms of approximately 15 m2 and an additional test for each 10 m2 to 20
m2 in addition to this.
• If readings are too high the floor requires a further period of drying.
Surface meters
These meters generally have plates on the base of the meter and use electromagnetic waves to determine an
electrical property that relates to the moisture content of the slab. They benefit from being totally non
destructive and provide instantaneous readings. Generally they can provide moisture content readings to a
depth of between 12 mm and 19 mm depending on the make.
When using this method the following should be taken into consideration:-
• Meter readings should be taken in the same localities as for resistance meters. More frequent readings
can be undertaken if desired due to ease of use.
• A clean concrete surface and firm contact with the concrete is necessary to obtain a correct reading.
• Some meters indicate that readings should be used as a guide for further testing.
When using this method the following should be taken into consideration:-
• The boxes need to be out of direct sunlight.
• The boxes must be sealed to the slab with a non water based sealant (e.g. plastercine).
• Measurements should be recorded at the time of installation and after approximately 16 hours.
• For areas up to 25 m2 two readings should be taken, three readings to 100 m2 and six readings to 500 m2.
• If readings are too high the floor requires a further period of drying.
Further improvements
Improvements in sounds transmission from a floor to a unit below can also be achieved at the design stage by
ensuring that the slab is of adequate thickness. An extra 25 mm in slab thickness can make a significant
difference to sound transmission. In addition to this, ceiling systems can also be used which isolate the sound
source (i.e. timber floor) from the unit beneath. These systems generally consist of a grid of isolation mounts with
furring channels attached. Insulation and plasterboard complete the system. With multi-residential timber framed
construction (MRTFC) two layers of fire rated plasterboard are used. Such systems are effective and are
considered to be relatively economical. Finally, rugs, hall runners and mats used in conjunction with timber
flooring can not only complement the timber floor but with their sound absorbing properties, can also reduce noise
levels both within and between units.
Note:- Cover width variation exceeding 1mm, sloppy T&G fit, signs of moisture or cupping may indicate possible problems.
Records
Widest Moisture Cover Cupping Narrowest Moisture Cover Cupping
Boards Content Width Boards Content Width
1 1
2 2
3 3
Note:- Ensure that the appropriate moisture meter corrections have been applied. Moisture contents should be between 9% and 14%
(average between 10% and 12% is common).
If applicable, are sub-floor conditions dry, ground levels beneath dwelling not lower than external ground and
graded to prevent ponding, ventilation to recommendations and ground sloping away from dwelling?
Yes No
Note: If ‘no’ then these issues may need to be attended to or other measures taken prior to installing the floor.
If the floor is laid on joists ensure the joists are sufficiently level.
If the floor is over a concrete slab or sheet sub-floor, are the sub-floors adequately level, dry and in good
condition?
Slab moisture contents or checks undertaken with the following results: ……………….. ………………..
Slab level checked and within ± ……………… mm in 1.5 m throughout (plywood or batten system).
Note: Maximum is ± 3 mm
If sheet sub-floors have become wet prior to or during construction and may not have sufficiently dried then
moisture contents need to be checked. Moisture contents are as follows:
……………….. ……………….. ………………..
Note: Plywood and particleboard moisture contents need to be determined with oven dry testing. Sheet sub-floors should be within 2% of
the timber flooring moisture content being laid over it. Slab moisture contents need to be below 5.5% in new slabs and can be expected to
be lower in old slabs (refer Appendices A2 and A3).
The following slab moisture barrier as applicable has been applied to or over the slab.
.…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..………
EXPECTED MOVEMENT AFTER INSTALLATION
If wide board flooring is being used greater shrinkage can be expected during dry times.
In moist localities high levels of expansion can be expected (Ensure adequate additional expansion allowance).
Is the building design such that the floor will experience high levels of sunlight or has heating/air-conditioning
systems? (Drier in-service conditions can be expected at certain times of the year - shrinkage gaps more likely) Is the underside of
the floor is exposed to dry winds or mist? (Sealing or protection to the underside of the floor needs to be considered to assist in
controlling both expansion and shrinkage). Is the floor an upper storey floor (drier in-service conditions can be expected - shrinkage
gaps more likely) or below grade in shady conditions? (Moister in-service conditions can be expected - ensure adequate
expansion allowance - refer Section 2).
(Note: The above is provided as a guide only. Additional testing may be necessary or there may be the need for
other considerations).
Tenting resulting from atmospheric moisture uptake. Wide gaps due to high moisture contents at the time
of machining.