Why designers specify Timbo parquet
Designers and architects specify Timbo for Prime grade European solid oak in classic parquet patterns, with consistent sizes and clear specification data. You can request samples for client presentations, write a precise specification, and nominate a Timbo partner to quote, supply and install.
Herringbone and chevron remain the most requested oak patterns in Australian and New Zealand interiors. Natural and pale oak in matt finishes leads current briefs. See oak flooring trends for 2026.
Specification data
| Attribute | Timbo herringbone | Timbo chevron |
|---|---|---|
| Species | European oak | European oak |
| Grade | Prime | Prime |
| Construction | 18mm solid, tongue and groove | 18mm solid |
| Block size | 710 × 123 × 18mm or 820 × 123 × 18mm | Ask Timbo |
| Pattern | Square-ended blocks at 90° | Angled ends forming a continuous V |
| Coverage | 710mm: 16 panels ≈ 1.4 m² per box; 820mm: ask Timbo | Ask Timbo |
| Colour | Natural brown | Ask Timbo |
| Finish | Raw or pre-finished depending on batch – confirm when specifying | As herringbone |
Pattern parquet includes the Hybrid Oak Timeless Pattern Parquet – 15mm patterned oak squares, 450 × 450mm and 800 × 800mm. Compare the patterns in our parquet patterns guide and herringbone vs chevron.
What "Prime grade" means for a design
Prime grade is the cleanest of the common European oak appearance grades, with few and small knots and limited colour variation. That gives a calm surface where the pattern, not the timber character, carries the room. If a brief calls for a rustic or high-character look, Prime isn't the right choice, and it's better to say so at concept stage. Note that AS 2796, the Australian hardwood flooring grading standard, doesn't grade European oak (ATFA). Specify "Prime grade European oak" in words, and approve against a sample.
Standards and performance to note in a specification
- Product standard: solid parquet elements with grooves and tongues are covered by EN 13226; CE marking and a Declaration of Performance (DoP) fall under EN 14342, which covers reaction to fire, formaldehyde and slip (dataholz). Ask Timbo which DoP is available for your product.
- Reaction to fire: untreated solid parquet is typically Dfl-s1 under EN 13501-1 (same source). Confirm with the finish system you specify.
- Slip resistance: under the NCC, stair treads need P3 (dry) / P4 (wet); level internal floors aren't generally mandated, and the finish determines the result (SlipTest).
- Hardness: European oak is about 4.2–6.1 kN Janka, softer than spotted gum (
11 kN) or blackbutt (9.1 kN) (PFC). Factor this into finish choice for high-traffic areas. See the Janka hardness chart. - Moisture: specify installation within about ±2% of the expected in-service moisture content (WoodSolutions), and require slab testing before installation.
- Responsible sourcing: if the project targets a sustainability rating, ask Timbo what chain-of-custody documentation is available before you write it into the specification.
Common problems for specifiers, and how Timbo helps
| Problem | How Timbo helps |
|---|---|
| Specified product is substituted at tender | Nominate Timbo and a Timbo partner in the specification |
| Sample doesn't match what arrives | Approve against a Timbo sample of the exact product and size you specify |
| Hard to find technical data | Specification table above, plus guides on slabs, moisture and finishes |
| Client wants to see it in their space | Free samples sent to your studio or the client |
From specification to installation
- Request samples through the samples page for concept and client sign-off.
- Write the specification using the table above, and confirm finish and availability with Timbo.
- Nominate the installer: a Timbo partner, or the builder's flooring contractor buying through a trade account.
- Review site conditions before installation: slab moisture, flatness and ambient conditions.
- Hand over care instructions to the client, matched to the finish (oil or polyurethane). Our oil vs polyurethane guide helps clients choose.
Because Timbo is a trade supplier, your client never has to buy direct. The nominated partner quotes them, supplies the oak and installs it, and the specification stays intact from drawing to floor.
Our specifying oak flooring guide covers clause wording in more detail.
Frequently asked questions
How do I specify Timbo parquet in a finishes schedule?
List species and grade (European oak, Prime), construction (18mm solid, tongue and groove), pattern and block size, finish (product and sheen), installation method (glue-down to a prepared subfloor) and supplier (Timbo, via a nominated partner).
Can designers become Timbo partners?
Yes. Interior designers and architects can join the partner program for samples and specification support. Supply and installation are then handled through a flooring partner or your client's builder.
What fire rating does solid oak parquet have?
Untreated solid parquet is typically classed Dfl-s1 under EN 13501-1. The finish and installation affect the result, so ask Timbo for the product's Declaration of Performance where one is available.
Does Timbo have its own showroom?
No retail showroom. Visits to the Altona North office and warehouse are by appointment, and samples can be sent to your studio.
Is 18mm solid oak suitable over underfloor heating?
Engineered flooring is generally preferred over underfloor heating, and floor surface temperatures are usually limited to about 27°C with a floor sensor. Check the heating system and adhesive requirements before specifying solid. See our underfloor heating guide.