Things People Forget When Matching New Timber to Old Timber

Things People Forget When Matching New Timber to Old Timber

One of the biggest challenges when renovating or extending an older home is blending new timber with existing timberwork. Whether you’re replacing weatherboards, repairing flooring, or adding joinery, mismatched materials can ruin the flow and character of a space.

At W O Flatz Construction Ltd, we specialise in carefully tying new work into older homes. Here’s what people often forget when matching new timber to old, and how to get it right.

1. Timber Species Make a Huge Difference

Many older homes in Auckland were built with native timbers like kauri, rimu, or matai. These species are no longer widely available and have different grain patterns, colours, and densities than most modern timbers.

Tip: Identify the existing timber species before ordering replacements. In some cases, salvaged timber from demolition yards is the best way to achieve a perfect match.

2. New Timber Ages Differently

Freshly milled timber looks clean and light, but over time it darkens and develops a patina. If you install new timber next to old, the contrast can be stark at first.

Tip: Consider pre-staining or tinting new timber to reduce the difference. Your builder can advise on finishes that will blend as the timber ages.

3. Sizing and Profiles Can Vary

Older homes often have custom-milled profiles for skirting boards, architraves, and weatherboards. Standard off-the-shelf profiles rarely align perfectly.

Tip: For a seamless look, have new profiles custom-milled to match existing details. This can take extra time, so factor it into your renovation schedule.

4. Moisture Content Impacts Fit and Finish

Modern kiln-dried timber has a different moisture content than the air-dried timber used historically. This can cause shrinkage or movement where old and new timbers meet.

Tip: Your builder can allow for movement by incorporating expansion gaps or acclimatising new timber on site before installation.

5. Finishes Can Highlight Differences

Even with matching species and profiles, different finishes (oil, stain, paint) can make new timber stand out.

Tip: Test finishes on both old and new timber to ensure they blend before committing to a full application.

6. Consider Whether to Blend or Contrast

In some cases, a clear contrast between old and new can look intentional and modern. In others, seamless blending is key to maintaining character.

Tip: Decide early whether you want the new work to disappear into the old or stand out as a feature.

7. Work With a Builder Who Understands Character Homes

Successfully blending old and new timber requires more than technical skill—it takes an eye for detail and respect for the home’s original craftsmanship. At W O Flatz Construction, we specialise in heritage renovations and can guide you through these decisions with care.

In Summary

Matching new timber to old is an art as much as a science. With careful planning, the right materials, and an experienced builder, you can achieve a renovation that feels cohesive, timeless, and true to the home’s character.

If you’re planning a renovation and need guidance on blending new timberwork, we’d love to help.

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