Top Mistakes to Avoid When Installing Timber Floors in Mornington Homes

Installing timber flooring is one of the most effective ways to add warmth, elegance, and long-term value to your home. However, as simple as it may seem, the process requires planning, precision, and experience. If shortcuts are taken or key steps missed, you can end up with uneven boards, movement, cupping, or premature wear.

At RG Timber Floors, we’ve worked on countless timber floor installations across Mornington and the wider Melbourne region. We've seen what can go wrong when corners are cut and why professional expertise matters. Whether you're renovating a classic Mornington Peninsula home or fitting out a modern build, avoiding the most common timber flooring mistakes will save you time, money, and stress.

In this article, we walk you through the biggest timber flooring installation mistakes we encounter in Mornington homes - and how to avoid them for a flawless result.

Mistake 1: Skipping Proper Subfloor Preparation

The foundation of any great timber floor lies beneath the surface. Skipping subfloor preparation is one of the most common and damaging mistakes made during installations.

Uneven, damp, or unstable subfloors can lead to creaking, gaps, movement, or water damage. Every flooring system needs a stable, dry, and level surface to perform correctly.

At RG Timber Floors, we carry out comprehensive inspections before any floorboard is laid. We check for moisture levels, ensure the floor is flat, and apply moisture barriers when required. This is a critical step, especially in coastal homes around Mornington where damp conditions are more frequent.

Mistake 2: Not Allowing Timber to Acclimatise

Timber is a natural material and needs time to adjust to its new environment. Installing it straight away without allowing it to acclimatise to the indoor temperature and humidity can result in expansion or contraction after installation.

We always recommend allowing timber to sit in the home for at least 48 to 72 hours before installation. This ensures it adjusts to the conditions specific to the home, particularly in Mornington where seasonal changes can affect moisture levels.

Our team at RG Timber Floors manages this process as part of every timber floor installation. It’s a small delay for a major gain in long-term stability.

Mistake 3: Choosing the Wrong Type of Timber for the Environment

Every home is different, and not all timber products are suited to all conditions. Some homeowners choose timber based on aesthetics alone without considering durability, wear resistance, or local climate.

For Mornington homes near the coast, engineered timber is often a more stable choice due to its layered construction and resistance to moisture-related expansion. In contrast, solid hardwoods offer longevity but require the right conditions and care.

At RG Timber Floors, we guide homeowners through the selection process to ensure the timber choice aligns with the home’s environment, foot traffic, and style.

Mistake 4: Using Inexperienced or Unqualified Installers

One of the biggest regrets we hear from clients is hiring cheap or unqualified installers who leave behind visible joins, poor finishing, or floorboards that begin to shift within months.

Flooring installation requires more than just laying boards. It demands experience, precision, and attention to detail - especially when working with stairs, edges, trims, and transitions.

With over 18 years of experience, including a traditional carpentry apprenticeship and years working in Melbourne’s high-end flooring market, RG Timber Floors brings a high level of craftsmanship to every job in Mornington and beyond.

Mistake 5: Overlooking Expansion Gaps

Timber expands and contracts with temperature and humidity. If there are no gaps around the perimeter of a room, the floor can buckle or lift when it expands.

These gaps may not be visible once the job is finished, but they are crucial to the floor’s longevity. We always leave the correct expansion allowance based on the timber type, room size, and expected seasonal movement.

Our installations account for this movement while still achieving a sleek, tight visual finish.

Mistake 6: Rushing the Sanding and Coating Process

If you're installing unfinished timber, proper sanding and coating is essential. Rushing this step or using inferior products can result in an uneven surface, reduced durability, or a finish that wears prematurely.

At RG Timber Floors, we use professional-grade sanding machines, dust minimisation systems, and premium coatings to create a consistent, hard-wearing finish. We also allow full curing time before furniture is returned to the room.

We handle every step ourselves, from sanding to final coat, so you can expect a professional, long-lasting result.

Mistake 7: Ignoring Post-Installation Care

Your timber floor is an investment, and it needs simple, consistent care to retain its beauty and strength. Failing to use felt pads, using harsh cleaners, or neglecting to clean up spills can all lead to long-term damage.

We educate all our clients on the correct maintenance practices. Whether it’s how to mop properly, which cleaning products to avoid, or when to consider refinishing, we support our customers beyond installation.

Mistake 8: Not Considering Acoustic or Insulation Properties

Timber floors are beautiful, but they can be noisy if installed without the right underlay or acoustic solution - especially in two-storey homes or apartments.

For Mornington homes, where open-plan living is common, acoustic control is important for comfort. We offer underlay options that reduce sound transfer, increase underfoot comfort, and improve insulation.

This added layer not only makes your home quieter but can also enhance energy efficiency during Melbourne’s colder months.

Avoiding These Mistakes with RG Timber Floors

When it comes to timber floors in Mornington, homeowners want something more than just great-looking boards. They want comfort, performance, and a flawless finish that elevates the look and feel of their home.

At RG Timber Floors, we deliver exactly that.

Our team handles everything from the initial subfloor assessment through to the final coat. We manufacture custom stair nosing, handle stair installations, provide carpentry works, caulking, and ensure everything is completed to the highest standard.

Our focus is always on preparation, precision, and the details that make your floor not only look incredible but perform for years.

Servicing Mornington and the Bayside Region

We’ve worked on projects throughout the Mornington Peninsula, including Mount Martha, Mount Eliza, Frankston South and surrounding suburbs. Whether you're renovating a family home, preparing a property for sale, or building from scratch, we bring professional advice and workmanship to every project.

RG Timber Floors is based in Melbourne and services a wide range of suburbs across the south-east and bayside. We’re proud of the reputation we’ve built for delivering clean, cutting-edge flooring installations tailored to each home’s character.

Visit www.rgtimberfloors.com.au to explore our services or request a quote.