Distressed
Explore our distressed wood floors for intense character and an aged appearance. Each board involves processing techniques like hand scraping and planing to create broken edges and indentations that replicate a naturally worn timber.
Everything people ask about distressed floors
Distressed wood flooring has a deliberately worked surface and edge detail that gives new timber the character of an aged or naturally worn floor. The process highlights the grain, knots and tonal variation of the oak. Depending on the floor, the texture may be subtle or more pronounced.
The method varies between floors. Ted Todd uses techniques such as hand planing, tumbling and working the edges to create an aged surface. Some floors combine distressing with brushing, burning or sawn marks. Bembridge, for example, is planed and distressed, with broken edges that create a reclaimed appearance.
Yes. Natural differences in grain, knots, sap and colour mean that each board responds differently to the distressing process. This variation is part of the character of a real wood floor. Ordering samples will help you assess the colour and surface detail, although a sample cannot show every variation that may appear across a completed floor.
No, but it must be cleaned with products suited to its finish. Ted Todd recommends Care System 1 for lacquered or hardened oil floors and Care System 2 for natural oil or hardwax oil floors. White floors use Care System 3 or 4, depending on the finish. Avoid generic cleaners containing bleach or solvents, as these can damage or discolour the surface. Always follow the care system stated on the individual product page.
The finish depends on the selected floor. Current examples include matt hardwax oil finishes, such as the burnished hardwax oil used on Bembridge and Attingham. Other textured floors may use organic oil or lacquer. The finish affects the appearance, feel and care requirements, so check the specification before ordering.
Some distressed engineered wood floors are suitable for underfloor heating. Bembridge, Attingham and Dunham are each listed as compatible. Suitability should still be confirmed on the individual product specification, as construction and thickness can vary. Professional installation is recommended.
Yes. The current range includes engineered planks and herringbone blocks. Bembridge and Attingham are available as extra wide planks or narrow herringbone, while Dunham is offered in wide plank and narrow herringbone formats. Available dimensions, thickness and wear layer vary by floor, so compare the specifications before selecting a format.