The 5 main types
of timber
flooring.
Solid hardwood, engineered, laminate, bamboo, and parquet -each with its own character, lifespan, and best room. Tap a sample below to see the details and trade-offs.
Solid Hardwood
Engineered Wood
Laminate
Bamboo
Parquet
Solid Hardwood
Made from a single piece of timber, typically 18–22 mm thick. Can be sanded and refinished multiple times -highly durable, can last for decades with proper care.
Pros
- Highly durable -lasts decades
- Rich, natural aesthetic appeal
- Increases property value
Cons
- More expensive option
- Needs professional install + acclimatisation
50–70 years lifespan
Australian hardwood floors can endure for an impressive lifetime -and beyond -with proper care.
Refinishable multiple times
Solid hardwood can be sanded and refinished repeatedly, restoring its original appearance.
Versatile aesthetic
From light, airy Scandi to deep, formal heritage -timber adapts to any interior design style.
Eco-friendly options
Bamboo, reclaimed wood, FSC-certified hardwoods -sustainable choices with character.
Pick the timber that fits your home.
Timber flooring has long been a popular choice for homeowners and designers due to its natural beauty, durability, and versatility. Different types put particular emphasis on Australian hardwood species -European Oak, Tasmanian Oak, Mahogany, Teak, Walnut, Ash, Birch, Maple.
Australian hardwood is renowned as some of the world's toughest wood -Australian hardwood floors can endure for an impressive 50 to 70 years, or even longer.
Pick two. See the trade-offs.
Each timber type has its own profile -cost, durability, refinish potential, DIY-friendliness, eco-footprint, lifespan. Choose two below to compare side-by-side.
Answer three. Find your floor.
Tell us about the room, the traffic, and the budget. We'll recommend the timber type best suited to your project.
Room type
Foot traffic
Budget
Made from a single piece of timber, typically 18–22 mm thick. Highly durable, lasts decades with proper care, and can be refinished multiple times -perfect for living spaces where appearance and longevity are priorities.
- Living areas -appearance and longevity are priorities
- Medium traffic -solid hardwood handles it with ease
- Mid-to-premium budget -long-term value through refinishing
Six factors when choosing.
Durability
Assess the foot traffic your floors will endure. Solid hardwood is renowned for longevity and can be refinished multiple times. Engineered offers excellent durability with enhanced moisture resistance.
Aesthetic
Lighter woods can make spaces appear larger and more open, while darker tones add warmth and sophistication to any room.
Maintenance
Solid hardwood may need regular refinishing, whereas laminate is easier to clean and more resistant to scratches.
Cost
Solid hardwood has a higher upfront cost but offers long-term value through durability. Engineered and laminate options are more affordable.
Installation
Laminate with click-lock systems is DIY-friendly and can save on installation costs. Parquet or solid hardwood often requires professional install.
Environmental
If sustainability is a priority, consider eco-friendly options like bamboo or reclaimed wood. Many now offer low-VOC finishes.
Timber flooring FAQ.
Yes -timber flooring can often be installed over existing floors such as concrete or old wood. The suitability depends on the condition and type of the existing floor. Ensure the surface is level, clean, and dry. Engineered hardwood and laminate are particularly adaptable for overlying existing surfaces, making installation easier and sometimes more cost-effective.
Consider your home's lighting, room size, and existing décor. Lighter tones can make spaces appear larger and brighter — ideal for smaller rooms or those with limited natural light. Darker hues are perfect for larger areas or to create a cosy atmosphere. Match timber species and finish to your interior design style.
Absolutely. Sustainable options like bamboo, reclaimed wood, and FSC-certified hardwoods are popular in Australia. These reduce environmental impact by using rapidly renewable resources or repurposing existing materials. Many manufacturers also offer low-VOC finishes and eco-friendly production processes.
Forty-seven years
of trust.
Free quotes,
fast response.
Tell us about the floor - the suburb, the home or facility type, condition, preferred finish, when you'd like the work done. We'll come look, quote it formally, and book it into your week.
