Gib/plasterboard (level and securely fixed), timber framing or battens (useful over uneven surfaces, with moisture content kept below 12 percent), and concrete or masonry (with approved adhesives and battens, surface dry and level). Other substrates need a case-by-case check with Forté Technical Support.

Glue-down with secret pinning is the recommended method for both ranges. We recommend Mapei Ultrabond S997 1K Adhesive with a 16-gauge finishing brad (50mm over gib, 45mm over other substrates). Alor's locking joint profile also allows direct fixing to framing without gib.

Yes — shims, battens or packed-out plasterboard can bring the surface flush before installation. Minor irregularities can be handled with filler, levelling compound or adhesive adjustments. Always check with your installer for site-specific advice.

Yes — timber is hygroscopic, meaning it naturally absorbs and releases moisture as conditions change. Keeping ambient temperature between 16-27°C and relative humidity between 40-60 percent minimises movement and hairline cracking. Expansion gaps and transition details in the design guide are built around this natural movement.

Direct, unfiltered UV exposure can noticeably change timber's colour within one to three months — darkening, lightening or yellowing. Surface temperatures above 45°C in direct sun increase the risk of cupping, warping and coating deterioration. Even 99.9 percent UV-blocking glass or film still lets through visible light and heat that can cause gradual colour change, so we recommend layering architectural glass or window film with curtains or blinds in high-sun rooms.

The engineered overlay system carries a 25-year structural warranty and a 7-year finish warranty. Alor carries a 7-year manufacturer warranty covering material and manufacturing performance under specified conditions.

Both ranges achieve a Super E0 formaldehyde emission rating. As with any timber product, a dust mask is recommended when cutting.

Forté offers a range of transition solutions for each junction: metal angle trims and flat bars (silver, black, champagne, light and dark bronze anodised aluminium, plus brass and waxed steel organic finishes) for timber-to-carpet and timber-to-timber junctions; joinery angle trim colour-matched or powder-coated to suit; and colour-matched caulking for junctions with skirting, cabinetry or joinery. We don't sell tile trims — the Tilers Mate L-Angle Tile Trim is our general recommendation, sized to the tile thickness.

Both — flush for a seamless, continuous look, or proud to create shadow lines and design emphasis. The choice affects which trim detail is used at terminations and mid-wall junctions.

It depends which range and how it's specified. The engineered overlay system has a documented Alternative Solution that complies with ISO 4760 for imperviousness, but it's limited to splash zones only — not continuous standing water or direct wet-floor showers — and must follow Forté's full wet-area installation system (waterproofing membrane, sealing, adhesives and edge detailing as specified). Alor is not recommended for wet areas or direct splash zones, including showers and bath surrounds, even with a wet-area installation system; it can be considered in dry-zone areas of a kitchen, bathroom or laundry that don't get direct water contact.

40-60 percent relative humidity is ideal for both ranges. Below 35 percent or above 70 percent increases the risk of product movement and hairline cracks. In wet-area installations, ventilation should keep humidity below 60 percent, with mechanical extraction where needed.

Engineered timber wall panelling features a solid timber veneer bonded to a backing of plywood, pine or hevea. It offers greater stability than solid timber panelling while providing the same rich, natural appearance once installed.

A lamella is a thin plank or sheet of solid timber, much like a wood veneer only thicker. Lamella thickness can range from 2.5-10mm, whereas veneers are usually less than 2.5mm thick.

HDF/MDF core wall and ceiling panelling features a high-density engineered fibreboard core made from compressed wood fibres and resin. It delivers exceptional stability and a smooth, consistent surface, ideal for decorative finishes. The result is a refined, uniform appearance with improved resistance to movement compared to solid timber.

Two systems: our engineered timber overlay collections (Imondi and Tactile, in a range of engineered European Oak finishes) and Alor, a prime-grade European Oak or American Walnut veneer panel. All Forté flooring collections are also suitable for wall and ceiling use, so you can carry the same finish from floor to wall for a continuous look.

The engineered overlay range (Imondi, Tactile) uses a thicker wear layer (4-6mm solid European Oak over a plywood core) and comes in rustic grading with visible character — knots, cracks and colour variation. Alor is a lighter veneer system (0.6mm European Oak or American Walnut over an HDF core) in a clean, knot-free prime grade, supplied in long 2.7 metre lengths with a locking joint profile that installs directly onto framing, without gib.

That comes down to grade, not quality. Clear grade is close to flawless; Prime is mostly uniform with subtle character; Light Feature, Feature and Rustic grades show progressively more knots, cracks and colour variation. Markings such as knots, sapwood, medullary rays, cracks and pinholes don't affect strength — they're part of the timber's natural character, and the specification sheet for each product notes what to expect.