Expert Installation, Sanding & Restoration for Stunning Timber Floors
Heritage timber floors reflect the craftsmanship and architectural history of Sydney’s most iconic buildings. From heritage-listed homes to historic churches, museums and landmarks, these floors hold immense cultural value. Without proper care, however, age-related wear, water damage and structural issues can compromise their integrity. Glen Gilbertson Floor Sanding specialises in heritage floor restoration, ensuring that these rare and historically significant floors are revived while maintaining their authenticity.
Backed by over 30 years of experience and certification from the Australasian Timber Flooring Association (ATFA), our team expertly restores parquetry, tongue-and-groove hardwood and decorative inlays using authentic techniques and premium materials. From warping and loose boards to bituminous adhesive deterioration and over-sanding damage, we ensure these irreplaceable floors remain strong and structurally sound for years to come.
Historic timber floors require specialised care to maintain their original craftsmanship, structural integrity and historical significance. Professional restoration extends their lifespan and enhances their durability without compromising their authenticity.
Preserving Architectural History
Restoration ensures that original timber flooring, parquetry patterns and decorative inlays remain intact, preserving the historical character of the space.
Protecting Against Further Damage
Heritage timber can suffer from cupping, splitting and instability due to moisture exposure, improper maintenance, or old adhesives. Precision repairs help stabilise the flooring and prevent further deterioration.
Avoiding Costly Replacements
Replacing heritage flooring is expensive and often impractical. Restoration is a cost-effective alternative that maintains historical accuracy while improving the floor’s strength and longevity.
Eco-Friendly Solution
Reviving original timber floors reduces the need for new materials, minimising waste and ensuring sustainability.
Surface Wear & Sanding Damage: Older floors often show signs of excessive sanding, leading to thin surface layers that weaken the structure. We restore floors without further compromising the timber’s integrity.
Loose Boards & Gaps: Over time, boards may loosen or shift, creating gaps. Our team secures and re-aligns floorboards to reinforce the original structure.
Water & Moisture Damage: Sydney’s high humidity and historical water exposure can cause warping and rot. We stabilise the timber and apply moisture-resistant finishes to prevent further damage.
Bituminous Adhesive Deterioration: Heritage parquetry flooring was traditionally installed using bituminous adhesives, which break down over time. Our restoration process reinforces the bond and stabilises the parquet structure.
Precision Floor Sanding for Heritage Floors
Period-Accurate Polishing & Finishing
Structural Repairs & Timber Replacement
Parquetry & Decorative Inlay Restoration
Parquetry Floor Installation
Parquetry Floor Sanding & Restoration
Parquetry Floor Polishing & Sealing
Parquetry Floor Repairs & Maintenance
Federation & Victorian-Era Homes
Restoring traditional wide-plank hardwood, herringbone parquetry and decorative borders.
Historic Churches & Cathedrals
Preserving century-old timber floors while ensuring durability for continued use.
Government & Heritage-Listed Buildings
Expert restoration for historic landmarks, museums and cultural centres.
✔ Hammondville Anglican Church
✔ Royal National Park
✔ Sydney Opera House
Choosing the Right Finish for Heritage Floors
Selecting the right finish for heritage floors is critical to preserve their character, durability and historical integrity. From traditional oil-based finishes to modern waterborne coatings, the right choice enhances both aesthetics and protection.
Here’s what to consider when choosing a finish that respects the craftsmanship of the past while ensuring long-term resilience.
✔ Natural Oils & Wax Finishes – Historically accurate and breathable.
✔ Satin & Matte Sealers – Enhances grain without excessive sheen.
✔ Low-VOC & Eco-Friendly Coatings – Modern protection with minimal impact.
Daily & Weekly Care
Preventing Wear & Damage
Long-Term Preservation
Heritage timber floors deserve expert care to ensure their longevity while preserving their original craftsmanship. Whether you need sanding, polishing, repairs, or parquetry restoration, our specialists provide the knowledge and skill required for historically accurate floor restoration.
We use gentle sanding techniques, traditional finishes and precision repairs to maintain the floor’s integrity while strengthening its structure.
Older floors must be sanded with extreme care to avoid removing too much material. We use fine-grit sanding and dust-free technology to prevent over-sanding.
Yes! We use custom staining, waxes and oil finishes to match the floor’s original colour and texture.
We source matching timber species to replace damaged sections while ensuring the restored floor blends seamlessly with the original.
Most projects take a few days to a week, depending on the level of damage and the restoration process required.
Copyright 2023 © Glen Gilbertson Floor Sanding