Information Sheets

Ever since there have been timber floors, seasonal movement has been observed where floors would shrink during drier weather and expand during more humid weather.

For as long as there have been timber floors there have been squeaks and it is generally accepted that many floors will make some noise when walked on.

When the wet weather has been more intense than previous years we have seen expansion pressure in floors take its toll.

Both wood-based and vinyl-based flooring can be installed over underfloor heating and in recent years owners in the cooler southern states of Australia and in New Zealand are more frequently including this heating option in their dwellings.

Australia has a long tradition of common names for species, and ‘blue’ gum is a prime example where there is a ‘blue’ gum in at least three states and each is a different species.

Boards with fewer and smaller features are sorted into one grade while those with more frequent and larger features would be sorted into another grade.

This information is provided for guidance when a timber floor has been inundated with mud and silt laden water

With higher density backsawn hardwoods that are installed in moderate to more humid localities there are concerns with peaking in the floor.

The laying of a timber floor and when it is subsequently sanded and polished is often dictated by the building schedule and due to this the effects of seasonally hot and dry weather conditions are at times not duly considered.

Heating and cooling systems, affecting both the internal temperature and humidity, will also bring about changes to the internal dwelling climate and generally have the effect of moderating internal conditions, if not used excessively.

Let’s take a look at weather patterns and the conditions to understand what is happening with our floors.

It is not uncommon when walking on a timber floor to hear a hollow sound. Learn more about understanding these sounds.