Natural oak is engineered wood finished with a clear oil or lacquer that preserves the timber's own colour, rather than smoking, staining or whitening it. You get the warm pinks, browns and golds of real European oak on a stable multi-ply core, so it is the most authentic representation of an oak floor.

Real oak mellows gently over the years as daylight warms the surface, which most people see as the floor gaining character. A clear lacquer holds the tone close to the raw board, while a natural oil gives the most matte, unaltered look. Either way the change is slow and even.

Yes. Because the colour is the wood itself rather than a stain or wash, natural oak does not date to a trend the way a grey or heavily whitened floor can. It has the broadest appeal, which makes it the safest choice for a forever floor or a property you may sell.

An oiled finish gives the most matte, natural surface. A lacquered finish adds a subtle protective sheen and is lowest-maintenance for busy rooms. A brushed surface lifts the grain for texture and pairs with either. For a fully bespoke tone, an unfinished board can be sanded and sealed on site.

Yes. Natural oak engineered wood works with both wet and electric underfloor heating up to a maximum surface temperature of 27C. Acclimatise the boards for at least 48 hours before fitting and follow the supplied instructions. It is not suitable for bathrooms or wet rooms.

Natural oak runs right across our own-label GF range, available to buy online with free samples and the V4 collections, sold on a Request a Price basis. It is available in plank, herringbone and Versailles formats and in oiled, lacquered or brushed finishes.