Project Brief
This project involved a complex restoration of radiata pine flooring in a home where the timber was aged, brittle, and inconsistent due to a combination of old boards and new extensions.
The builder initially brought us in to assess the floors, which had deep stains, significant wear, and mismatched timber sections due to different milling sources and ages. Rather than replacing all the flooring, the client wanted a more cost-effective solution that would unify the old and new boards seamlessly.
Original Condition of the Property
The existing radiata pine had seen years of wear and tear, leaving some boards brittle and heavily stained. The newer sections of flooring, installed as part of recent extensions, contrasted sharply with the original pine due to differences in milling, age, and product variations. This resulted in a disjointed appearance where the transition between the old and new floors was highly noticeable.
Our Approach to Restoring Radiata Pine Floors
To address the deep stains and the significant mismatch between the boards, we opted for a heavy lime wash to create a more uniform finish across the entire floor. The lime wash process effectively masked imperfections while lightening the timber to achieve a more cohesive look.
Additionally, some of the older boards were beyond repair, requiring selective replacement. Once these new boards were installed, they were treated with the same heavy lime washing to ensure consistency throughout the space.
Customizing the Lime Wash Process
Since radiata pine tends to absorb stains and finishes inconsistently, we developed multiple test samples for the client. These test patches allowed us to determine the right level of lime washing required to balance the color variation between old and new timber.
The lime wash application was adjusted in different areas based on how the timber responded to the treatment. Heavily stained sections required multiple layers of lime washing, while newer boards were treated more subtly to avoid over-lightening. The goal was to achieve a natural, aged aesthetic that blended seamlessly.
Why Heavy Lime Washing is Effective for Radiata Pine
Unifies old and new timber – Bridges the gap between different ages and sources of pine boards.
Conceals deep stains and imperfections – Helps mask inconsistencies and worn-out sections.
Creates a light, modern aesthetic – Perfect for brightening up interior spaces.
Allows preservation over replacement – A cost-effective and sustainable flooring solution.
This project demonstrates how thoughtful restoration techniques can transform aged and mismatched timber into a cohesive, durable, and visually appealing floor that meets modern design expectations.
Preparing for the Final Finish
Once the lime washing process was completed and had sufficiently cured, we moved on to the protective finish. Given the need for durability and a long-lasting surface, we applied Bona HD 2-Pac Water-Based Polyurethane. This high-performance coating provided several benefits:
Exceptional durability – Perfect for high-traffic areas, ensuring the restored pine would last for years.
Non-yellowing formula – Prevents discoloration over time, keeping the floors looking fresh.
Low VOC, environmentally friendly – A sustainable choice for home renovations.
Enhanced natural grain visibility – Maintains the aesthetic appeal of the timber while offering superior protection.
The Final Look
The end result was a beautifully uniform and revitalized radiata pine floor that seamlessly connected the old and new sections of the home. The heavy lime wash successfully balanced the color inconsistencies, while the polyurethane finish provided a hard-wearing surface with a clean, modern look. The once brittle and worn floors now had a refreshed, elegant appearance that brightened the entire space.
Client Reaction
The client was highly satisfied with the outcome, particularly appreciating how the lime wash allowed them to preserve their existing flooring rather than resorting to a costly full replacement. The transition between the old and new sections was no longer an issue, and the finished floors enhanced the overall aesthetic of the home. They were especially pleased with the added durability provided by the Bona HD polyurethane finish, ensuring longevity and easy maintenance.