Timber Colour
Timber Colour Guide for Timber Floors
At NS Timber Flooring, we offer a diverse selection of timber species for your flooring projects, each with its own distinctive colour palette, natural characteristics, and grain patterns.
Timber is a naturally varied material, and understanding these nuances will ensure you choose the perfect flooring for your home or project.
A Natural Product
Timber species differ widely in their natural colour consistency. Some species present uniform shades and tones, providing a sleek and streamlined aesthetic, while others feature a vibrant blend of colours, highlighting the timber’s authentic character. Significant colour contrasts can occur, particularly between the sapwood—the outer timber layer just beneath the bark, usually lighter in colour, and the heartwood, which tends to be darker and richer.
Moreover, variations within a single species are common. Factors such as the tree’s age, growth environment, geographical location, and climate significantly influence timber colouration. Even individual trees from the same species may exhibit strikingly different colour characteristics. Additionally, specific sapwood treatments or processes used during preparation can further impact the final colour of the timber flooring.
Coatings and Colours
It’s also crucial to consider that the type of protective coating applied to your timber floor will influence its final colour and appearance. Various finishes—from matte to high-gloss—can either enhance or subtly alter the timber’s natural tones.
When selecting timber species, remember that switching from your initially preferred species to another will not only change the overall colour scheme but may also significantly affect the dominant natural features and patterns in your flooring.
For personalised advice and to truly appreciate the beauty and diversity of timber flooring options, we encourage you to visit our NS Timber Flooring showroom in Brisbane. Our experienced team is on hand to discuss your preferences, showcase the range of timber species, and guide you in making a choice that perfectly complements your vision.
Common Questions - Timber Colour
Why does the colour of timber flooring vary so much between boards?
Timber is a natural material, and its colour can vary due to several factors, including the difference between heartwood and sapwood, the tree’s age, where it was grown, and the environmental conditions it experienced. Even boards from the same tree can show variation in tone and grain, which is part of what gives timber flooring its natural charm and character.
Will my timber floor look exactly like the sample I saw in the showroom?
Not exactly. The sample gives a reliable indication of the species' overall tone and character, but individual boards will naturally vary in colour and features. Factors such as the batch of timber, the specific coating chosen, and lighting in your space will all influence the final appearance.
What is the difference between heartwood and sapwood, and how does it affect floor colour?
Heartwood is the older, denser inner timber, usually darker in colour, while sapwood is the younger, outer section just beneath the bark, which tends to be lighter. Species that include both in flooring boards often show beautiful colour contrasts, contributing to a more varied and natural-looking floor.
Does the floor coating affect the colour of the timber?
Yes, coatings play a key role in how the final floor appears. Some finishes will deepen or enrich the natural timber colour, while others, such as matte or lightly tinted coatings, can soften tones or add a subtle wash. Our team can show you how different finishes will impact your chosen timber species.
I changed my mind on species, will the floor look very different?
Yes, different species not only offer distinct colours but also vary in grain pattern and feature type (such as gum veins, knots, and texture). A change in species may result in a completely different look and feel, so it’s important to view samples and discuss your preferences with our team.
Can I view full-sized samples or entire floors before deciding?
Absolutely. We encourage customers to visit our Brisbane showroom, where you can see large display panels and installed floors to get a true sense of colour variation, grain pattern, and finish. It’s the best way to confidently choose the right timber for your space.