Random Width Engineered Oak Makes A Statement In Beckenham, BR3
We always like to create something really special when fitting our wooden floors and this project exceeded our client’s expectations. They wanted something a little different, that would stand out from the norm. As the rooms were such a good size, we recommended a random width hardwood engineered oak floor. The customer was delighted with the suggestion and trusted us to take the idea forward.
The end result, the beauty of a random width oak wooden floor
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We negotiated closely with specialist wood flooring manufacturers, The Natural Wood Floor Company, to establish the widths of the wooden boards. We settled on very wide 300 mm and 210 mm planks to contrast with narrower 135 mm boards all in a natural grade. As the 300 mm boards were only available unsealed, we had to use unfinished boards in all of the sizes, to ensure a consistent colour. It’s impossible to create the same uniform look as a machine finished floor and consistency in colour was vital to the success of the floor.
We laid the boards down unsealed
The unfinished wood, in different widths
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The new floor was fitted in the main hall, reception room, living room/diner and office. Our first job was to remove the old laminate floor. As this had been laid at different times, it didn’t match and was in a poor condition. The subfloor was checked, and loose, squeaky boards were secured into place. Unlike the rest of the house, the office subfloor was constructed from concrete, so we had to apply a liquid damp proof membrane, to ensure that there wouldn’t be any damp infiltration in the future.
The existing laminate floor was removed
The subfloor was made good
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The skirting boards were in good condition, so these were kept in place. We have perfected our own method of undercutting these, so we were able to neatly slot the wood flooring underneath. The doors and jams had to be trimmed, so they could accommodate the higher level of the new wooden floor.
We fitted the new wooden planks under the skirting boards
All of the doors had to be trimmed
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Random width floors need to be planned meticulously so that the different widths work together to create a striking visual effect. The wider boards tend to attract the eye, so these were placed next to the focal points in each room. Once laid, the different plank widths create a very natural feel, as they reflect the natural structure and varying size of the trees. The natural grade wood contributed to this rustic, relaxed look.
The first board is laid
A neat border frames the fireplace
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The boards were selected on the strength of their pattern and grain. It’s impossible to match up the grain completely, but the overall detailing on each board needed to relate to its neighbour and be pleasing to the eye.
The distinctive grain of the wood can be seen clearly
The design is carefully planned before installation
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The boards were supplied in random lengths, so we had to be careful to stagger the end joints correctly, so there was plenty of space between each run. If the end joins overlap or are too close, the eye is immediately drawn to this and it can ruin the effect of the floor.
It’s important that the end joints are staggered
A perfectly laid floor
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To create the dark, aged patina, we finished the floor in an antique oil. Once dry, this was buffed, before applying a clear oil, which seals in the colour and helps to protect the wood.
The dark antique oil gives the wood a deep, mellow colour
The dark tones complement the red brick fireplace
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The large hall meant that there was enough room for an integrated doormat made from natural coir. We like to fit these where possible, as they make an attractive feature and help to protect the floor. The frame helps to separate the two surfaces and creates a neat finish.
The original floor, with a loose mat on the floor
The new random width boards and framed mat
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Fitting a random width wooden floor can lead to wastage, as it’s not always possible to use up all the different packs of wood. To compensate for this, we surprised the homeowner by making some bespoke stools out of the leftover wood. Click here to see more furniture we’ve crafted out of wood.
The off cuts were used to make stylish stools
One of the stools against the dark wood floor
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There are so many different possibilities when fitting wood flooring. If you would like something that has a special, unique feel to it, we’d love to hear from you. We are always happy to share our experience and knowledge that we have acquired over our many years in business. Please contact us to find out how we can help.
Location: Beckenham, BR3