One question we hear regularly is: “Why is my timber turning yellow?”

Usually, there’s nothing wrong with the timber or the finish. Timber is a natural material and its colour changes as it ages.

Two of the main causes are oxidation and exposure to UV light. Depending on the species, timber may gradually become warmer, darker or more golden – and some species change much more noticeably than others.

What about rugs and furniture?

This is another common concern. Move a rug after a year or two and the timber underneath may be noticeably lighter.

That's simply because the surrounding timber has been exposed to more light. Rugs, furniture and other objects shield the timber underneath from UV, so it changes colour more slowly.

The difference will often become less noticeable once the covered area is exposed to light again. On newer floors, occasionally moving rugs and furniture can also help the timber develop more evenly.

Different timbers age differently

There is no single rule for how timber will change. Different species contain different natural pigments and compounds, so some become richer and darker while others develop a warmer or more golden appearance.

Even individual boards of the same species can vary – that's part of the natural character of real timber.

Does the finish make a difference?

Yes, a finish can influence the initial appearance of timber and how it develops, but no clear timber finish can completely prevent the natural effects of ageing and light exposure.

That's why a freshly finished sample should be seen as a guide rather than a guarantee of exactly how the timber will look several years later.

Giles' Tip

Don't be alarmed if your timber changes colour with time. In most cases, it's simply the timber ageing naturally. When choosing a timber and finish, consider not only how it looks today, but how that particular species is likely to develop with age and exposure to light.

Have a timber-finishing question? Explore more Whittle Tips in our Knowledge Centre or contact the Whittle Waxes team for practical advice.

About Giles
Giles Whittle-Herbert is the founder of Whittle Waxes Australia and has decades of hands-on experience working with timber, finishes and restoration. His practical advice is based on helping customers get the best from their timber while keeping maintenance simple and achievable.