Project Brief
This project involved the careful restoration of a much older building with a complex mix of timber species, including Tassie Oak, Victorian Ash, and Baltic Pine. Over time, various renovations had led to mismatched timber sections where walls and cabinetry had been moved or replaced.
The floors showed significant age-related wear, including shrinking, expansion, and gaps between boards. Unlike a standard sand and seal process, this restoration required a more delicate approach to preserve the integrity of the existing timber while addressing structural concerns.
Original Condition of the Timber
The floor presented a variety of challenges:
Some sections had been patched with different timbers, leading to a noticeable mismatch.
Natural expansion and contraction over the years had resulted in gaps and minor damage.
Some areas were significantly stained and marked with wear that could not be completely removed due to the timber’s age.
The client preferred to keep the original aesthetic rather than attempting to blend or cover the mismatched timber with a lime wash or heavy tinting.
Tassie Oak Restoration Process
To ensure the longevity and stability of the floors, we:
Applied a heavy-duty filler – This was used to seal existing gaps and prevent further movement in the timber. This step was crucial in maintaining the structure and reducing future cracking.
Carefully sanded the surface – Given the age and condition of the timber, sanding was done gently to avoid excessive material removal while still achieving a smooth, even finish.
Assessed stains and damage – Some marks and stains were too deep to remove entirely due to the age of the wood. After discussing the options with the client, they were happy to proceed with the natural imperfections as part of the building’s historic character.
Final Finishing
The final stage of the restoration involved applying a clear water-based polyurethane finish, which was chosen for several key reasons:
Preserved the natural timber tones – The client preferred to showcase the raw beauty of the aged Tassie Oak rather than mask it.
Non-yellowing formula – Ensured the finish remained fresh and clear over time.
Durable and hard-wearing – Provided protection against further wear while maintaining a natural look.
Eco-friendly and low VOC – Ideal for historic properties where indoor air quality is a consideration.
