Custom European Oak Floor with Walnut Inlays

Subfloor Preparation & Moisture Management

Before any wood flooring could be installed, the existing red carpet was fully removed, exposing the original concrete slab. While major concrete grinding was not initially included in the scope, the condition of the slab required a careful evaluation once the carpet and adhesive were exposed.

Rather than defaulting to aggressive surface removal, we coordinated an on-site consultation with Wakol technical representatives to ensure the most effective and responsible solution.

Because the existing carpet adhesive was well bonded and intact, the decision was made—under manufacturer guidance—to:

• Grind and remove only compromised or loose areas
• Maintain intact adhesive where it was providing effective moisture protection
• Apply one coat of Wakol PU 280 moisture barrier instead of two

This approach preserved performance while saving the church significant cost, all while maintaining full manufacturer approval and warranty.

Self-leveling depths ranged from 1/8″ at the thinnest points to 1.5″ at the thickest, requiring careful surveying, laser measurements, and pin setting throughout the sanctuary.

To execute this work efficiently and accurately, we utilized:

• Dual Collomix LevMixers
• Collomix water dosing systems for precise mixing ratios
• Full perimeter isolation to protect expansion and structural movement

This level of preparation ensured a flat, stable foundation suitable for a premium wide-plank installation.

Custom Sanctuary Layout & Design Strategy

The sanctuary’s hexagonal geometry presented both a challenge and an opportunity. A conventional front-to-back or side-to-side layout would have limited long-term serviceability and required pew removal for future maintenance.

Instead, we developed a custom, purpose-driven layout that respected both the architecture and the function of the space

The sanctuary was divided into phases—center, left side, and right side—allowing all services to continue uninterrupted. The floor orientation on each side runs parallel to the pews, with mirrored angles that meet precisely at the center, forming a series of diamond shapes.

At the heart of the sanctuary:

• Twelve walnut diamond inlays symbolize the Twelve Apostles
• Subsequent diamonds transition to European white oak
• The geometry naturally draws the eye toward the altar

This layout creates straight aisles between pews, visually guides the congregation forward, and—critically—allows any section of the floor to be maintained or re-oiled without removing pews.

Every design decision balanced symbolism, functionality, and longevity.

Wide-Plank Installation & Craftsmanship

The flooring material consisted of 7″ wide, 3/4″ thick unfinished European white oak with a 6mm wear layer, paired with solid 3/4″ walnut for the diamond inlays.

Installation highlights include:

• Full-spread adhesive installation using Wakol MS 230
• Meticulous racking to ensure a natural, random plank distribution
• Hand-cut walnut diamonds fitted individually for precision
• All mitered joints routed, splined, and glued for long-term stability

Custom stair risers were fabricated from the same European oak, milled to size, and installed alongside integrated LED lighting beneath both altar platforms—adding depth, warmth, and subtle illumination.

NWFA-Compliant Sanding & Rubio Monocoat Finishing

Sanding and finishing were performed strictly in accordance with NWFA guidelines, without shortcuts.

The sanding process included:

• 60-grit belt sanding
• FG Discus sanding at 80 and 100 grit
• Final refinement using an FG Schwabbel square buffer for a scratch-free surface

After sanding, the floor was water-popped and allowed to dry overnight, ensuring even oil absorption.

Thanks to the chosen finish system and intentional layout, any section of the sanctuary can be repaired or refreshed independently, preserving both function and aesthetics long-term.

Once curing was complete, all pews were carefully reinstalled, returning the sanctuary to full use.