What do Architects Need to Know About Timber Flooring?

Duty of the Architect

With only a few exceptions, there is no single project done by an architect that sources its products from an individual supplier. Many manufacturers work together with architects, engineers and contractors to design and build the home. Everything from the roof, the windows, the kitchen countertops and even the hinges are specifically selected for their functionality and aesthetic quality. The same selection process goes for something as seemingly simple as timber flooring. It is a structural element that contributes greatly to the quality of the space, so it’s of paramount importance that architects select the most appropriate material on which we walk.

The Role of Wood Flooring

This іѕ where wood соmеѕ in. You’ve seen bad wooden floors, but really great timber flooring is an instant turn-on. It’s sexy. It’s clean. Fake wood flooring and ceramic tiles don’t come close to the depth of texture you will find in an all-natural wooden floor

Each individual plank has a unique pattern that cannot be copied by the plank next to it.

The Right Choice

It’s a daunting task for the architect to choose the right timber flooring, as it will be a reflection on the design for years to come. It can be a bit of a nightmare considering cost and width, and depth. And just when an architect has made a decision, they will see a sample of something that looks even better.

If this is a familiar story for architects, then perhaps a guide of sorts may prove to be handy.

Hоw tо Sресіfу Wood Flooring

Technically speaking, as a building material, wood is not all that complicated, but there are a lot of choices. The main concern is how it will look, so the species of tree, the colour, the grain and the finish of the wood, then how it should be cut and installed, all require consideration.

Sometimes, based on what the room will be used for, it might require a harder or softer wood. However, with so many durable coatings, wood suppliers should be able to work out what is required. When describing these specifications, use normal words and supply photographs, if at all possible, to describe exactly what you want. Also, be sure to describe how the space is going to be used. After supplying that information, the manufacturer will do the rest.

Timberrrr!

Let’s talk timber. Or, to be more specific, let’s talk about solid timber flooring VS engineered wood flooring. There’s a huge difference between the two types, and it’s important that the architect understands which one is which and why the right kind, regards thickness and other properties, is the best suited for the project.

Before worrying about how the timber is processed and made into such pristine architectural flooring material, there is a fact of which you should be aware: wood moves!

When designing a home for a client, the more aware you are of the integral properties of a product you are selecting, the closer to your ideal of perfection you will get.