English Oak is a truly exceptional variety, renowned for being the finest oak within its species.
The wild and naturally grown nature of this wood results in a striking and intricate grain pattern throughout the logs. These pedunculate logs are distinct from the more commercially cultivated Oaks found in managed forests. Additionally, the slow growth of this oak leads to tighter growth rings, resulting in a richer color hue.
An important feature of this wood, when quarter-sawn, is the presence of the broadest medullary rays among all oak varieties. These natural veins gracefully traverse the planks, adding to their beauty.
Our award-winning Galion flooring is crafted exclusively from this exceptionally special English Oak. We follow the traditional method of quarter sawing the logs, a technique employed for centuries. Although it yields slightly less usable wood per log, it offers the best stability, as quarter-sawn Oak primarily expands and contracts in thickness rather than width. By quarter-sawing English Oak, we achieve remarkable grain patterns, prominently pronounced medullary rays, and occasionally captivating and unpredictable grain patterns. These elements combine harmoniously with the rich, warm tones that are characteristic of English Oak.
Our Galion planks boast impressive dimensions and rank among the largest in our Woodworks collections. Presented as a random-width floor, the varying widths add visual interest and pay homage to traditional pre-20th-century flooring. The narrower widths provide scale and proportion alongside the wider boards. This modest floor features skip-sawn marks, hand polished undulations and a soft rolled edge detail, finally finished with Burnished Hardwax Oil Satin.
The surface of the Galion floor undulates with abundant natural shaping and movement. Each board possesses its own distinct characteristics, connecting your project back to the wonders of nature. This quality also reflects the charm and character of antique or reclaimed floors, paying tribute to the centuries-old originals that serve as the hallmark of our Woodwork craftsmanship.
For those seeking architectural details that harmonize with the tonal values of their chosen floor, we offer tailored solutions upon request. Furthermore, maintaining this floor is effortless with our Care System 2.
To order a sample or explore your project further, please reach out to our Woodworks Specification Consultant.
