Precision in Hardwood Flooring: The Art of Timber Drying

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In ATFA Timber Floors Magazine Issue 52, Ross Lakin from Parkside emphasizes the importance of patience and meticulous preparation in the hardwood flooring manufacturing process. He reflects on past industry attempts to expedite timber drying, which often led to flooring issues. The article underscores the significance of understanding the drying process, from initial yard drying to kiln drying. Proper monitoring, adherence to best practices, and knowledge sharing within the industry are vital to producing stable, high-quality timber flooring that meets the expectations of all stakeholders, from manufacturers to homeowners.

Business – Demystifying the ATFA Inspection System

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In ATFA Timber Floors Magazine Issue 52, Randy Flierman, ATFA CEO, sheds light on the ATFA Inspection System, a cornerstone of the association’s efforts since 2005 to elevate workmanship and professionalism in the timber flooring industry. The system, which has undergone significant reviews and improvements, aims to ensure industry standards and provide members with feedback on their work. With a focus on continuous improvement, the inspection process involves notifying members of reviews, offering opportunities for resolution, and maintaining transparency and fairness throughout.

Technical Article – Using adhesive tape with finish systems

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In ATFA Timber Floors Magazine Issue 52, Adrian Ayris from Bona discusses the intricacies of using adhesive tape with coated timber floors. While taping is common for marking or painting, challenges arise when the finish system gets removed with the tape. Factors like sanding grit, product volume, site conditions, and curing levels influence adhesion. The article emphasizes the importance of choosing quality low-tack tapes, following manufacturer instructions, minimizing tape duration on the surface, and careful removal. Proper tape application and removal ensure the longevity and aesthetics of timber finishes.

Project Profile – The Upside Down Floor

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In a unique twist, Nadia Warren, an advocate for water-based coatings, took on a project in Brunswick, Victoria, where flooring adorned the ceiling and walls of a Victorian-style home. The client’s eco-conscious vision was realized with hand-selected timber imported from Italy. To protect the timber while maintaining its natural appearance, Intergrain Enviropro Invisible was chosen. This product offered an invisible look, robust protection, and sustainability. Nadia praised its non-drip application, low odor, and easy handling, all while achieving the desired aesthetic.

From New York to Arcadia, NSW Australia – A Project Profile from ATFA

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Lacote Labradors, based in Arcadia, NSW, brought a piece of history to Australia by relocating a 229-year-old New York State Barn built entirely with geometry and wooden pegs. This architectural marvel, originally constructed in 1791, was deconstructed, shipped, and reassembled in just four days. The barn’s flooring, made of aged Hemlock, showcases deep scratches and marks, reflecting its storied past. With the expertise of The Hun Floors and Urethane Coatings, the timber was preserved, retaining its natural, historic charm.

Central Coast Stunner – A Project Profile from ATFA

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In ATFA Timber Floors Magazine Issue 47, Skandi Flooring showcases their expertise with the installation and finishing of a breathtaking waterfront home on the NSW central coast. Over 250m2 of solid French Oak flooring graces this architectural marvel. Collaborating with Construct Central Coast builders and homeowners, Skandi achieved a natural, low sheen look using Bona finishes. The residence boasts oak staircases, balustrades, and vaulted ceilings, all complementing the luminous sheen of the oak.

The Perils Of Concrete Stairs – A Technical Article From ATFA

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In ATFA Timber Floors Magazine Issue 39, Phil Buckley from Mint Floors & Shutters unravels the challenges of timber installations over concrete stairs. The article underscores the intricacies of adhering to compliant riser heights, making informed material choices, and addressing levelling requirements. By emphasising the need for clear communication and understanding, Phil offers valuable insights for achieving impeccable finishes and managing client expectations.

Creaking Joints – A Technical Article from ATFA

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Discover the nuances of timber flooring in Phil Buckley’s ‘Creaking Joints’ article from ATFA Timber Floors Magazine Issue 51. Learn about the challenges posed by creaking end joints, the discrepancies in Australian Standards, and groundbreaking solutions like PVA adhesive application. Enhance your understanding and achieve impeccable flooring installations.

Brighton Project – A Project Profile from ATFA

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Explore the Brighton Project, highlighting Mrboards’ excellence in parquetry flooring and custom finishes. With over 30 years in the flooring realm, Mrboards partners with esteemed interior designers and builders, introducing innovative sanding techniques and distinctive finishes. Unravel the intricacies of rectifying a previously installed Oak parquetry floor and the art of harmonizing timber with marble.

Appearance characteristics of engineered floors

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One of the main attributes of engineered flooring is that it has a face veneer or lamella of solid timber that is bonded onto a more stable base layer, thereby increasing the product’s in-service stability. Every board in an engineered floor is different.

Sanding and Refinishing a Bamboo Floor

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The long-term success of any flooring installation relies on quality substrate materials being used along with appropriate preparation and selecting fit for purpose products. Whilst we all may be familiaaA question commonly asked by those who have bamboo floors installed in their home is, can my floors be re-sanded and recoated in future years?

Substrate and Subfloor Types

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The long-term success of any flooring installation relies on quality substrate materials being used along with appropriate preparation and selecting fit for purpose products. Whilst we all may be familiar with the more traditional substrates (and subfloors) such as concrete and particleboard, there are also many other materials that we come across in the construction industry.

Sheen Levels in Site Sanded and Coated Floors

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When it comes to site sanded and coated timber floors, there are various sheen level options available to choose from. The sheen level refers to the level of gloss or shine on the surface of the floor coating. Different sheen levels can have a significant impact on the appearance and overall aesthetic of the timber floor.

Common Issues Emerging with Hybrid Flooring

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Hybrid flooring has witnessed a notable rise in popularity in recent times, likely due to its lower price point, ease of installation and versatile design options. It is also heavily marketed as being more water resistant than other traditional wood-based flooring types.

Tongue and groove flooring in external environments

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Many older buildings in Australia have decks and external spaces that are partially covered by verandahs and the like. Back in the early 1900s, it was common to use tongue and groove flooring for these areas, creating additional living space or walkways that closely resembled internal conditions, though these areas were still exposed to the weather.

Bostik

ULTRASET® 3 IN 1 is a high performance adhesive, moisture control and sound reduction membrane all in one. Zero VOC Australian made Superior sound control typically outperforms 3mm rubber underlay Extremely low moisture vapour permeability Thickness Control™ Spacer Technology maintains the adhesive thickness between hardwood flooring and substrate Anti-fracture performance can bridge cracks up to … Read more