Grading is distinguished by selective gum veins, spirals, burls, insect trails, and other features that give timber floors a unique character, as individual as a signature. Pentarch Forestry flooring is not graded for color variation or grain patterns as they form part of the natural beauty of timber flooring.
When selecting the perfect timber flooring, understanding its durability is key. The Janka hardness test is
the ultimate measure of a timber’s strength, providing a clear rating system to help you choose a floor that
will stand the test of time.
The Janka hardness test measures the force required to embed a 11.28mm steel ball halfway into a piece
of wood. This force, measured in kilonewtons (kN), becomes the wood’s Janka rating.
In simple terms: the higher the Janka rating, the harder and more resistant the timber is to dents and
impacts. This makes it an essential tool for comparing the density and durability of different timber
species.
A high Janka rating is a reliable indicator of a floor’s ability to handle daily life. Impact Resistance: A harder wood is less likely to dent if you drop a heavy object. High-Traffic Suitability: For busy areas like hallways and kitchens, a high-Janka timber offers superior durability. Long-Term Value: Investing in a harder timber can mean a longer lifespan for your flooring
Before starting any project in a designated bushfire-prone area, your first step should always be to get an official BAL assessment. This will not only
ensure the safety and compliance of your home but will also guide your material choices, allowing you to select a stunning and durable hardwood that is
approved for your specific level of risk.
The timber you can use externally for decking, cladding, posts, or windows is directly linked to your property’s BAL rating.
BAL 12.5 & BAL 19: For these levels, you can generally use timber with a density of 750 kg/m³ or greater. Many dense Australian hardwoods meet this
requirement. For windows and doors, the density requirement is slightly lower at 650 kg/m³ .
BAL 29: This level requires the use of specific bushfire-resisting timber. AS 3959 identifies seven key species that are naturally resistant to fire due to their
high density and unique properties:
Blackbutt
Spotted Gum
Red Ironbark
River Red Gum
Silvertop Ash
Merbau (Kwila)
Turpentine
BAL 40: Construction at this level is highly regulated. While the BAL 29-rated timbers can often be used, they must be part of a construction system that
meets the strict requirements of BAL 40, which may include specific jointing and sealing methods or using non-combustible materials in certain locations.
BAL FZ (Flame Zone): In the Flame Zone, the risk is too high for combustible materials. The use of timber is generally not permitted for external
applications. Construction must rely on non-combustible materials like steel, concrete, and fibre-cement sheeting.
