Floor Sanding Australia -- FAQs

Question 1

What is Floor Sanding Australia?

Accepted Answer

A free NSW directory of floor sanding contractors. We group businesses by region so you can browse local options and contact them directly. No middlemen, no lead resale, no referral fees. The site is sponsored by FSA Network floor sanders and supported by Bona Australia.

Question 2

Does Floor Sanding Australia charge contractors to be listed?

Accepted Answer

No. Listing is free. We don't charge commissions or resell leads. FSA Network members get stronger placement but all contractors are listed with direct contact details.

Question 3

Who runs Floor Sanding Australia?

Accepted Answer

Floor Sanding Australia is operated by people in the trade. It's sponsored by FSA Network floor sanders (NSW's Bona Premier Dealer) and supported by Bona Australia. The site exists because finding a decent floor sander shouldn't require trawling through paid ads and dodgy lead-gen sites.

Question 4

What is FSA Network floor sanders?

Accepted Answer

FSA Network floor sanders is NSW's only Bona Premier Dealer, based in Toronto NSW. They supply the full range of Bona floor finishing products, sanding machines, abrasives, and accessories to professional floor sanders across Newcastle, Hunter Valley, Lake Macquarie and Central Coast. Contact an FSA Network floor sander for product advice.

Question 5

What Bona products are available from FSA Network floor sanders?

Accepted Answer

The full range: Traffic HD, Mega EVO, Craft Oil, Hard Wax Oil, DriFast Stain, primers, sealers, adhesives, DCS dust extraction, FlexiSand and Belt sanding machines, all abrasive grades, and the residential floor care range. FSA Network floor sanders is the only Bona Premier Dealer in NSW.

Question 6

What Bona products do FSA Network floor sanders use?

Accepted Answer

FSA Network floor sanders use the full Bona professional range including Traffic HD, Mega EVO, Craft Oil 2K, Hard Wax Oil, DriFast Stain, primers, and Bona DCS dust extraction equipment. Contact any FSA Network floor sander for product advice specific to your floor.

Question 7

What's the difference between Bona Certified and regular floor sanders?

Accepted Answer

Bona Certified floor sanders have completed Bona's training program, use Bona products as their primary system, and carry minimum $5M public liability. It's invite-only.

Question 8

Why should I choose a Bona Certified floor sander?

Accepted Answer

Bona Certified contractors have completed Bona's professional training program, use Bona products as their primary coating system, and carry minimum $5M public liability insurance. The certification is invite-only -- not every floor sander qualifies. Floor Sanding Australia lists all Bona Certified contractors in each region. For a Bona Certified floor sander near you, browse the directory above.

Question 9

Why should I choose an FSA Network floor sander?

Accepted Answer

FSA Network floor sanders use Bona products as their primary system and have been verified for insurance, equipment, and trade credentials. They're highlighted in the Floor Sanding Australia directory because of their verified trade presence and commitment to professional standards. FSA Network members: Select Timber Flooring (Lake Macquarie), Skandi Flooring (Newcastle), Phoenix Floor Sanding (Newcastle), Floor Star (Lake Macquarie), WTF Floor Sanding (Lake Macquarie), and Stag Timber Floors (Central Coast / Hunter Valley).

Question 10

What types of noise does acoustic underlay control in apartments?

Accepted Answer

There are two main noise types: high-frequency noise like music, voices, and TV which is controlled by floor system mass, and low-frequency vibrations like footfall and subwoofers which are controlled through acoustic underlays and isolation. Sound is measured in decibels with most people noticing a 3dB change. FSA Network floor sanders install flooring systems that meet building acoustic requirements.

Question 11

What is the NCC acoustic requirement for floors between apartments?

Accepted Answer

The National Construction Code requires the Weighted Standardised Impact Sound Pressure Level (LnTw) to not exceed 62dB for floors separating dwellings. However, individual strata buildings may impose stricter by-laws, and some councils demand LnTw of 40-50dB. FSA Network floor sanders ensure timber floor installations comply with all applicable acoustic requirements.

Question 12

How does timber flooring compare acoustically to carpet and bare concrete?

Accepted Answer

Bare concrete at 175mm thickness performs at approximately 70dB, timber on acoustic underlay typically achieves 50-60dB, and carpet flooring achieves approximately 40dB. Acoustic underlay systems typically provide 10-20dB noise reduction over bare substrate. Floor Sanding Australia can recommend acoustic underlay systems that meet your building's requirements.

Question 13

Does concrete slab thickness affect floor acoustics?

Accepted Answer

Yes, concrete slab thickness significantly affects acoustic performance -- the difference between a 175mm and 150mm slab can be as much as 10dB. Thicker slabs provide better sound insulation as a base for timber flooring. FSA Network floor sanders consider slab thickness when recommending acoustic underlay systems.

Question 14

What is flanking noise in timber flooring installations?

Accepted Answer

Flanking noise occurs when sound travels through walls rather than through the floor, bypassing the acoustic underlay system. Perimeter isolation is essential to prevent this -- the floor must not touch walls or fixed structures directly. FSA Network floor sanders ensure proper perimeter isolation in every acoustic installation.

Question 15

Do thin laminates or thick hardwoods perform better over acoustic underlay?

Accepted Answer

Thin, flexible laminates actually perform better than thick hardwood floors over acoustic underlay because they conform more effectively to the resilient layer beneath. Acoustic underlay materials also vary significantly in performance despite having similar thicknesses. FSA Network floor sanders select the right combination of flooring and underlay for optimal acoustic results.

Question 16

What impact does the 10dB acoustic reduction rule have on flooring choices?

Accepted Answer

A 10dB reduction sounds approximately half as loud to the human ear, and acoustic underlay systems typically provide 10-20dB noise reduction. This means the right underlay can make a timber floor sound half to quarter as loud as the bare slab beneath. FSA Network floor sanders help select the acoustic system that achieves the required noise reduction for your building.

Question 17

What is the minimum 3dB change threshold for acoustic perception?

Accepted Answer

Most people notice a 3dB change in sound level, which is the smallest difference typically perceived by the human ear. This means acoustic improvements of less than 3dB are unlikely to be noticed by occupants. FSA Network floor sanders ensure acoustic underlay selections achieve meaningful noise reductions well above this perception threshold.

Question 18

What slip resistance standards apply to timber stairs?

Accepted Answer

Slip resistance standards have applied to domestic stairs since 2014, with the Building Code of Australia requiring slip resistance for commercial building paths of travel. AS4586 governs new surface classification, and testing methods include wet pendulum, dry floor friction, and inclining platform tests. FSA Network floor sanders ensure stair coatings meet all applicable slip resistance standards.

Question 19

Does slip resistance on timber stairs change over time?

Accepted Answer

Yes, slip resistance can change over time due to wear, cleaning, and contamination. Coating gloss level, chemistry, and surface tension all affect slip performance. Floor Sanding Australia recommends regular assessment of stair slip resistance, especially in high-traffic areas.

Question 20

What is the difference between P-class, R-class, and CoF slip resistance ratings?

Accepted Answer

P-class ratings come from wet pendulum testing, R-class from inclining platform tests, and CoF (Coefficient of Friction) from dry floor friction testing. These ratings appear on product data sheets and are used to verify compliance with slip resistance requirements. FSA Network floor sanders select coating systems that meet the required slip resistance classification for your application.

Question 21

What is Bona Traffic HD Anti-Slip?

Accepted Answer

Bona Traffic HD Anti-Slip is a two-component polyurethane finish with added slip resistance, designed for stairs, ramps, and wet-adjacent areas. FSA Network floor sanders use it wherever building codes or safety require a non-slip surface. Enquire at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 22

Where should Bona Traffic HD Anti-Slip be used?

Accepted Answer

Bona Traffic HD Anti-Slip is used on stairs, hallway ramps, bathroom-adjacent flooring, pool surrounds, and any commercial area requiring slip resistance compliance. FSA Network floor sanders apply it to meet Australian safety standards. Get advice at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 23

Does Bona Traffic HD Anti-Slip change the look of the floor?

Accepted Answer

Bona Traffic HD Anti-Slip has a slightly different texture compared to standard Traffic HD due to its anti-slip particles, but the visual appearance remains very similar. FSA Network floor sanders can apply it seamlessly alongside regular Traffic HD on the same project. Details at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 24

Can Bona Traffic HD Anti-Slip be used on the whole floor?

Accepted Answer

It can, but most FSA Network floor sanders apply Bona Traffic HD Anti-Slip only where slip resistance is needed, such as stairs and wet-area transitions, and use standard Traffic HD on the main floor areas. This gives the best balance of feel and safety. Discuss options at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 25

What Australian standard covers slip resistance on timber floors?

Accepted Answer

AS/NZS 4586:2013 is the primary standard. It classifies surfaces using the wet pendulum test (P0-P5), oil-wet ramp test (R9-R13), and barefoot tests (A/B/C). AS/NZS 4663:2013 covers in-situ testing of existing surfaces. HB 198:2019 is a non-mandatory guide. The NCC references these standards for stairs and ramps in Class 1-9 buildings.

Question 26

What P rating do timber stairs need in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Under the NCC (National Construction Code), stair treads and landings require minimum P3 or R10. Stair nosings and landing edges require P4 or R11. This applies to both domestic (Class 1) and commercial (Class 2-9) buildings. External ramps also require P4 or R11.

Question 27

What is the difference between P rating and R rating for slip resistance?

Accepted Answer

P ratings use the wet pendulum test -- a swinging arm with a wet rubber slider measures dynamic friction (Pendulum Test Value). P3 = 25-34 PTV, P4 = 35-44 PTV, P5 = 45+ PTV. R ratings use the oil-wet inclined ramp test -- a person walks on a tilted oiled surface. R10 is roughly equivalent to P3. P testing is more common for timber floors because it can be done on-site.

Question 28

Which floor coatings achieve P4 anti-slip for timber?

Accepted Answer

Bona Traffic HD Anti-Slip achieves P4 under AS 4586:2013 with a publicly available test certificate. Intergrain UltraFloor SlipResistant exceeds P4 and meets P5 in 3 coats. Synteko Nova Best Anti-Slip achieves R10. Stellmann Non-Slip Clear achieves P3. Anti-slip additives can be mixed into standard polyurethane coatings to achieve P3-P5 depending on concentration.

Question 29

Can I get my timber floor slip-tested after coating?

Accepted Answer

Yes. NATA-accredited labs offer on-site wet pendulum testing under AS 4663. Safe Environments (Sydney), Sliptest Australia (multiple sites), Stone Initiatives (Adelaide), and Australian Slip Testing (Logan QLD) all do on-site testing with formal certificates. Cost is typically $300-600 per visit. Floor sanders should request a test certificate when using anti-slip coatings on commercial stairs.

Question 30

Where can I get a slip resistance test certificate for my floor?

Accepted Answer

Contact a NATA-accredited testing lab: Safe Environments (safeenvironments.com.au), Sliptest Australia (sliptest.com.au), Stone Initiatives (stonemtg.com.au), or Zerofal (zerofal.com.au). They test to AS/NZS 4586 (new surfaces) or AS/NZS 4663 (existing surfaces) and issue formal certificates accepted by building certifiers and councils.

Question 31

Do domestic timber stairs need anti-slip coating?

Accepted Answer

The NCC requires domestic stair treads to meet P3 or R10 and nosings to meet P4 or R11. Most standard timber floor coatings (Bona Traffic HD, Mega, solvent polyurethane) achieve P3 on smooth timber. For nosings to meet P4, you either need an anti-slip coating like Bona Traffic HD Anti-Slip or a physical nosing strip. Many domestic builders use aluminium nosing strips instead of anti-slip coatings.

Question 32

What brands make anti-slip timber floor coatings in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Bona Traffic HD Anti-Slip (P4, test cert available), Intergrain UltraFloor SlipResistant (P5 in 3 coats), Synteko Nova Best Anti-Slip (R10), Stellmann Non-Slip Clear (P3). Generic anti-slip additives from Protrade Warehouse and Sydney Industrial Coatings can be added to any polyurethane coating. Polycure, Loba, Pallmann, and Feast Watson do not currently publish dedicated anti-slip timber variants in Australia.

Question 33

How long does anti-slip coating last on timber stairs?

Accepted Answer

Same as the base coating -- typically 8-15 years on residential stairs with Bona Traffic HD Anti-Slip, 3-5 years in high-traffic commercial. The anti-slip additive is embedded in the film, not sitting on top, so it wears at the same rate as the coating itself. Re-coat when the finish shows wear, not specifically when slip resistance drops.

Question 34

Is anti-slip coating required for commercial restaurant floors?

Accepted Answer

The NCC does not mandate specific P/R ratings for general commercial floor areas, only for stairs, ramps, and certain wet areas. However, building certifiers and insurers often require P3 minimum for hospitality venues. Kitchen floors near cooking areas may need P4-P5 or R11 due to oil/grease contamination risk. Check with your building certifier before specifying.

Question 35

Can anti-slip additive be mixed into any polyurethane?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Anti-slip additives (aluminium oxide, glass bead, or polymer microsphere) can be stirred into most water-based and solvent polyurethane coatings. The resulting P rating depends on additive concentration, coat thickness, and the base coating. Pre-formulated products like Bona Traffic HD Anti-Slip are preferred because the additive distribution is factory-controlled and test-certified.

Question 36

How durable is Bona Traffic HD compared to single-component finishes?

Accepted Answer

Bona Traffic HD is significantly more durable than any single-component finish because its two-part crosslinking formula creates a harder, more chemical-resistant film. FSA Network floor sanders recommend it for any floor subject to heavy foot traffic, furniture movement, or commercial use. Contact floorsandingaustralia.com for a quote.

Question 37

What sheen levels does Bona Traffic HD come in?

Accepted Answer

Bona Traffic HD is available in matt, extra matt, and satin finishes. FSA Network floor sanders most commonly apply the extra matt for a contemporary natural look and the satin for a subtle warm sheen. Visit floorsandingaustralia.com to discuss which suits your project.

Question 38

What is the coverage rate for Bona Traffic HD?

Accepted Answer

Bona Traffic HD covers approximately 8-10 square metres per litre depending on timber species and application method. FSA Network floor sanders apply it with a roller or T-bar for optimal results. Get accurate coverage estimates for your floor at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 39

Can Bona Traffic HD be used on residential floors?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Bona Traffic HD is ideal for residential floors that need maximum protection, especially homes with pets, kids, or heavy furniture. FSA Network floor sanders use it when clients want the toughest possible finish. Request a quote at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 40

What is Bona Traffic HD Raw?

Accepted Answer

Bona Traffic HD Raw is a two-component finish that gives timber floors an invisible, uncoated appearance while still providing full polyurethane protection. FSA Network floor sanders use it to achieve the raw, natural timber look popular in modern interiors. See examples at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 41

How does Bona Traffic HD Raw differ from regular Traffic HD?

Accepted Answer

Bona Traffic HD Raw contains special matting agents that eliminate surface sheen entirely, making the timber look and feel unfinished while still being fully sealed. Regular Traffic HD has a visible film. FSA Network floor sanders recommend Raw when architects or homeowners want that bare-wood aesthetic. Details at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 42

Is Bona Traffic HD Raw as durable as regular Traffic HD?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Bona Traffic HD Raw has the same two-component crosslinking chemistry as regular Traffic HD, so it offers identical durability and scratch resistance. The only difference is the invisible finish appearance. FSA Network floor sanders trust it for high-traffic areas. Book at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 43

What timber species does Bona Traffic HD Raw work best on?

Accepted Answer

Bona Traffic HD Raw works on all timber species but looks especially striking on lighter timbers like Blackbutt, Tasmanian Oak, and European Oak where the natural grain shows through. FSA Network floor sanders can advise on the best approach for your species at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 44

What is Bona Mega EVO?

Accepted Answer

Bona Mega EVO is a one-component waterborne polyurethane designed as a reliable residential workhorse finish. FSA Network floor sanders use it for standard residential jobs where excellent durability is needed without the complexity of a two-part system. Visit floorsandingaustralia.com for quotes.

Question 45

How does Bona Mega EVO compare to Bona Traffic HD?

Accepted Answer

Bona Mega EVO is a single-component product that is easier to apply and more cost-effective, while Bona Traffic HD is a two-component system offering superior hardness and chemical resistance. FSA Network floor sanders recommend Mega EVO for standard residential and Traffic HD for high-traffic or commercial. Compare options at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 46

Is Bona Mega EVO good enough for a busy household?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Bona Mega EVO handles busy households well and is the go-to residential finish for FSA Network floor sanders. For homes with large dogs or extreme traffic, they may recommend stepping up to Bona Traffic HD. Get tailored advice at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 47

What sheen options does Bona Mega EVO come in?

Accepted Answer

Bona Mega EVO is available in matt, satin, and gloss finishes to suit any interior style. FSA Network floor sanders find satin and matt are the most popular choices among Australian homeowners. Browse finish options at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 48

How long does Bona Mega EVO take to cure?

Accepted Answer

Bona Mega EVO can be recoated in 2-3 hours and reaches full cure in approximately 7 days. FSA Network floor sanders advise light foot traffic after 24 hours and no rugs or heavy furniture for the full cure period. Booking details at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 49

What is Bona Craft Oil 2K?

Accepted Answer

Bona Craft Oil 2K is a two-component penetrating oil finish that soaks into the timber rather than forming a film on top. FSA Network floor sanders use it for a natural, tactile feel with the timber grain fully visible and touchable. Available in 12 colours at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 50

How many colours does Bona Craft Oil 2K come in?

Accepted Answer

Bona Craft Oil 2K is available in 12 colours ranging from neutral to deep tones, and colours can be mixed to create custom shades. FSA Network floor sanders can show you samples and help choose the right tone for your timber species. See the range at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 51

How durable is Bona Craft Oil 2K compared to polyurethane?

Accepted Answer

Bona Craft Oil 2K is durable but works differently to polyurethane -- it protects from within the timber rather than forming a surface film. Scratches are less visible and spot repairs are easy, but it requires periodic maintenance oiling. FSA Network floor sanders explain the trade-offs during quoting at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 52

Can Bona Craft Oil 2K be spot repaired?

Accepted Answer

Yes, one of the biggest advantages of Bona Craft Oil 2K is that damaged areas can be sanded and re-oiled without refinishing the entire floor. FSA Network floor sanders recommend oil finishes for clients who want easy long-term maintenance. Learn more at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 53

Is Bona Craft Oil 2K suitable for commercial spaces?

Accepted Answer

Bona Craft Oil 2K is used in commercial spaces like restaurants, boutiques, and offices where a natural aesthetic is desired, though it requires a maintenance schedule. FSA Network floor sanders set up maintenance plans for commercial oil-finished floors. Contact floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 54

What is Bona Hard Wax Oil?

Accepted Answer

Bona Hard Wax Oil is a natural blend of plant-based oils and waxes that penetrates the timber and leaves a subtle protective layer on the surface. FSA Network floor sanders use it for a warm, natural feel with slightly more surface protection than a pure oil. Details at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 55

How does Bona Hard Wax Oil differ from Bona Craft Oil 2K?

Accepted Answer

Bona Hard Wax Oil contains waxes that provide a slight surface layer on top of the oil penetration, offering a bit more stain resistance than Craft Oil 2K alone. FSA Network floor sanders choose between them based on the desired look and maintenance commitment. Compare at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 56

Is Bona Hard Wax Oil easy to maintain?

Accepted Answer

Bona Hard Wax Oil requires periodic refreshing with a maintenance oil or wax, typically every 1-2 years depending on traffic. FSA Network floor sanders provide maintenance kits and schedules for oil-wax finished floors. Maintenance advice at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 57

Can Bona Hard Wax Oil be used in kitchens?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Bona Hard Wax Oil works in kitchens as the wax component adds resistance to water and food spills. Spills should still be wiped up promptly. FSA Network floor sanders recommend it for kitchens where a natural feel is preferred over a polyurethane film. Enquire at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 58

Why do floor sanders use primer before coating?

Accepted Answer

Primer seals the timber, prevents tannin bleed, reduces topcoat absorption, and ensures even colour across the floor. FSA Network floor sanders always prime before applying finish coats to guarantee a professional result. Learn about the process at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 59

Can I skip the primer coat?

Accepted Answer

Skipping primer risks uneven absorption, tannin staining, and poor finish adhesion. FSA Network floor sanders never skip priming because it is essential for a lasting, professional result. Get the full process explained at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 60

What is Bona Prime Intense?

Accepted Answer

Bona Prime Intense is a grain-enhancing primer that deepens the natural colour and character of the timber while controlling tannin bleed. FSA Network floor sanders use it when clients want to bring out the richness of species like Spotted Gum or Jarrah. See results at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 61

Does Bona Prime Intense work on all timber species?

Accepted Answer

Bona Prime Intense works on all species but has the most dramatic effect on timbers with strong natural grain patterns like Spotted Gum, Blackbutt, and European Oak. FSA Network floor sanders can test it on your timber to show the result before committing. Enquire at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 62

What is Bona Prime White?

Accepted Answer

Bona Prime White is a white-pigmented primer that lightens timber to achieve a Scandinavian or whitewash aesthetic. FSA Network floor sanders use it under clear topcoats to create that bright, airy Nordic look popular in modern Australian homes. See examples at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 63

How do you achieve a Scandinavian white floor?

Accepted Answer

FSA Network floor sanders sand the floor bare, apply Bona Prime White to lighten the timber, then seal with Bona Traffic HD or Traffic HD Raw for a pale, contemporary finish. The number of primer coats controls the whiteness intensity. Get a quote at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Question 64

Can Bona Prime White be used on dark timber species?

Accepted Answer

Bona Prime White can be applied to darker species like Jarrah or Spotted Gum, but the result will be a limed or washed effect rather than a true white. FSA Network floor sanders can do test patches to show the expected outcome. Discuss at floorsandingaustralia.com.

Finishes

Sheen levels

Solvent poly