Restoring Historic Parquetry with Expert Craftsmanship
Heritage parquetry flooring is an irreplaceable part of Australia’s architectural history, found in historic buildings, heritage-listed homes, and public landmarks. Over time, these intricate timber floors can suffer from wear, loose blocks, water damage, and structural deterioration due to aged adhesives and environmental exposure. Glen Gilbertson Floor Sanding specialises in heritage parquet flooring restoration, repairs, and installation, ensuring that these historical features are preserved for future generations.
With over 30 years of experience and Australasian Timber Flooring Association (ATFA) certification, we restore original herringbone, chevron, and basket weave parquetry using traditional techniques. Whether it’s repairing bituminous adhesive deterioration, stabilising floating parquet blocks, or refinishing century-old hardwood, our expert craftsmanship maintains historical accuracy while reinforcing the floor’s durability.
Parquetry flooring became popular in Australia in the early 1900s, particularly in government buildings, heritage homes, and historic public spaces. Unlike modern timber flooring, heritage parquet consists of small hardwood blocks arranged in intricate patterns, often secured using bituminous adhesive or tongue-and-groove systems.
These floors were crafted from high-quality native and imported timbers, including:
✔ Tasmanian Oak – Common in Federation-era homes.
✔ Jarrah – A durable, reddish-brown hardwood often seen in civic buildings.
✔ Brush Box – Known for its rich grain and strength.
✔ Sydney Blue Gum – A popular choice for decorative parquetry.
Heritage parquetry flooring is commonly found in government buildings, historic churches, museums, libraries, and period homes. These floors are an integral part of Sydney’s architectural history, showcasing the craftsmanship and durability of traditional timber flooring. Many of these historic sites feature intricate parquetry patterns that require expert restoration to maintain their original character.
✔ The Art Gallery of NSW
✔ The State Library of NSW
✔ Sydney Town Hall
✔ The Commonwealth Bank Building
✔ St Mary’s Cathedral
✔ St Vincent’s College Chapel
✔ St Stephen’s Uniting Church
✔ Sydney Grammar School
✔ The Capitol Theatre
✔ The State Theatre
Heritage Parquetry patterns were traditionally laid with contrasting timber inlays, creating decorative borders and feature panels that require expert restoration to preserve.
✔ Herringbone Parquetry – A zigzag design found in Federation homes and historic public buildings.
✔ Chevron Parquetry – A refined pattern that creates a seamless, angular aesthetic.
✔ Basket Weave Parquetry – An interlocking design used in early 20th-century commercial spaces.
✔ Versailles Parquetry – A highly intricate panel-style design, originally seen in European estates.
✔ Brick Bond Parquetry – A staggered layout often used in Sydney’s early apartment buildings.
Wear and Surface Damage
Loose or Missing Parquet Blocks
Over-Sanding and Structural Weakness
Water and Moisture Damage
Parquetry Floor Restoration
Parquetry Repairs & Replacement
Heritage Parquetry Installation
Polishing & Finishing for Heritage Parquetry
Restoring heritage flooring requires a careful balance of craftsmanship, authenticity, and modern techniques. Here’s how we bring heritage timber and parquet flooring back to life with expert care and period-accurate methods.
✔ On-Site Inspection & Floor Assessment – Analysing wear, damage, and adhesive stability.
✔ Custom Restoration Plan – Selecting materials and methods to maintain period authenticity.
✔ Precision Repairs & Block Replacement – Strengthening the parquet while preserving original craftsmanship.
✔ Sanding & Refinishing – Restoring the timber surface without excessive material loss.
✔ Final Sealing & Polishing – Applying protective finishes to enhance durability.
✔ Maintenance Recommendations – Advising on long-term care to prevent future deterioration.
✔ ATFA-Certified Heritage Flooring Specialists – Experienced in historic floor restoration.
✔ 30+ Years of Experience – Trusted for restoring heritage-listed buildings and historic sites.
✔ Traditional Restoration Methods – Using authentic techniques for period-accurate results.
✔ Expertise in Parquetry & Decorative Inlays – Skilled in repairing complex timber patterns.
✔ Minimal Disruption & Dust-Free Sanding – Protecting interiors during restoration.
✔ Competitive Pricing & Free Consultations – Transparent pricing with no hidden costs.
Heritage parquetry floors are a vital part of Australia’s architectural legacy. Whether you need sanding, polishing, repairs, or full restoration, our specialists provide expert craftsmanship to preserve these historical floors.
We use gentle sanding techniques, authentic adhesives, and period-correct finishes to maintain structural integrity while strengthening the floor.
Yes! We source matching heritage timbers and recreate historic patterns to ensure seamless restoration.
Natural oils, waxes, and low-sheen coatings preserve authenticity while protecting the timber.
Most projects take 3-7 days, depending on the restoration requirements and floor condition.
Yes! We install authentic parquetry using traditional methods and high-quality timbers.
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