According to Polaco Master Floor Sanding, different timber species are available for use as timber flooring material, and each option is available in various grades.  

Solid tongue and groove hardwood timber has been used for centuries as timber flooring material. Its unique and varied appearance ensures its use in contemporary as well as traditional interior design.

Kiln-dried hardwood tongue and groove flooring has been a popular choice in Australia for over 100 years. Its structural quality allows it to be laid directly to the floor joists over concrete, plywood, battens or a number of other surfaces.  

This timber flooring variety is available in secret nail or top nail profile and comes in a wide range of colours, widths and prices.  

Grades of timber

Timber grades are determined by the amount of features visible in the timber. The grade of timber is an important factor while selecting timber flooring material.  

Timber features occur naturally in the timber and are caused by knots or knotting, insects, fire, damage or other occurrences. These features render character and natural beauty to timber floors.  

Most timber varieties are available in three grades: Contemporary, Standard and Natural.  

Contemporary timber grade  

Also known as Select or Low feature, the Contemporary grade of timber lends a minimalist appearance to the finished product. It is also considered as the premium grade in the timber flooring market, which prefers a limited amount of visible features.  

Colonial timber grade  

Also known as Medium feature, the Colonial grade of timber is a mixture of boards that have more visible features. Once installed, this timber flooring will feature a varying degree of Contemporary-looking timber with a bit of character.  

Natural timber grade  

Also known as Rustic or High feature, the Natural grade of timber is a mix of the more heavily featured lengths of timber that do not fit within the Contemporary or Colonial grades. The Natural grade is selected by customers looking for a rustic, old-world or natural appearance.  

While the general colour of timber flooring will be determined by the species, natural variations do occur. Being a natural product, the final timber flooring result will always be different from the sample.  

The true colour of a timber floor can be seen only after it has been sanded and coated with a chosen finish. The colour of timber floors mature over time with lighter floors particularly susceptible to a ‘honeying’ effect.