Grades and Finishes

Grades

Every tree is an individual and each piece of timber used to make up the floor has its own characteristics. No two pieces are identical and every finished floor is unique.

The wood of some species is by nature even toned whereas other species have strong tonal variations. The standard grade of timber shows the full range of natural characteristics of the specie, with often strong variations in colour and grain and the presence of knots. This grade is given names such as ‘Rustic’, ‘Classic’, ‘Factory’, ‘Character’ etc by different manufacturers.

Premium grades of most woods are also available, manufactured from the best parts of the tree. They have been selected to give a more uniform appearance with less tonal variation and fewer, smaller knots. These grades are variously named ‘Prime’, ‘Select’, ‘Elegance’, ‘Exquisite’ etc.

With some woods an intermediate grade is offered, with names such as ‘Nature’ and ‘Natur’. This has more colour variation than the full premium grade and may have larger knots.

Finishes

Hardwood floors are finished either with natural oil that gives a soft sheen, or with at least 5 layers of hard-wearing, UV-conditioned lacquer. Most floors are offered with choice of finish.