The difference between sawn oak and sliced oak is not always considered at the specification stage, but it can have a significant impact on the finished floor.
Sawn-cut veneers retain more of the timber’s natural cell structure, contributing to greater dimensional stability and a more authentic grain pattern than sliced or rotary-cut alternatives. The result is a floor that not only captures the character of natural oak but is also designed to stand the test of time.
For architects and designers, understanding how the timber is cut is an important part of specifying flooring, particularly for projects where both aesthetics and long-term performance need to be considered.
Three-ply construction for lasting stability
FINOak Atelier is crafted from European sawn oak, chosen specifically for these structural properties. The natural variation in grain and texture creates depth and visual interest throughout the installed floor, with no two planks reading the same. This is the character that flooring built from sliced veneers often cannot replicate.
The construction beneath the wear layer is a three-ply engineered system with a European oak wear layer bonded to a stable poplar core and backing layer. This configuration is designed to minimise movement caused by fluctuations in the temperature and humidity. In South Africa, where ambient conditions vary considerably across regions and seasons, dimensional stability is a meaningful performance criterion rather than a specification footnote.
Speed, stability and acoustic comfort
Installation flexibility is part of the offering. The Välinge 5G locking system allows FINOak Atelier to be installed as a floating floor for speed and ease, or fully bonded for a more solid underfoot feel and enhanced acoustic performance. The range is also compatible with underfloor heating systems, extending suitability across residential, hospitality and contemporary commercial applications.
Curated oak finishes for every space
Available in a curated palette of colours and finishes, each plank highlights the authentic grain and texture of genuine oak. Surface durability and ease of maintenance across all finishes make the range appropriate for both residential and commercial environments where appearance and practicality must coexist.
The result is a floor that delivers the appearance of solid hardwood with the dimensional reliability of an engineered system built for real-world conditions.
Take a look at this new product range here.
Featured image: Available in a curated palette of colours and finishes, FINOak flooring highlights the authentic grain and texture of genuine oak.
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