Eham has always been a specialist when it comes to choosing the right wooden flooring. But a solid, perfectly crafted floor goes beyond its visible surface. In the end, every last detail is visible — and significant in the planning process. This case study gives a detailed insight into our process — from the foundation to the finish.

Our case study revolves around the structural restoration of an old farmhouse. The clients wanted to preserve the ambience and atmosphere of the old building without sacrificing modern comfort. A wooden flooring that transports the feeling of bygone days, combined with the luxury of modern floor heating.

Screed is the industry standard for floor bases. It takes a long time to dry and can delay construction by days. Also, a component of screed is sand — a raw material that is slowly running out and changing entire maritime ecosystems due to invasive sea mining. Floorboards are firmly bonded to the screed. On these kind of hard floor bases, the wood loses its inherent quality. But when it’s correctly installed, wood springs with each step, gives way to and harmonizes to each step. To make this possible, Eham pursues a special approach — innovative, simple, and sustainable in three steps.

First comes the leveling pouring. Eham prefers to use mineral-coated wood chips for this step. It is more adaptable than sand and offers the same quality of sound insulation. The wood shavings are first covered with wood soft fiber boards, then molded boards made of lava chippings. This combination of the three layers was developed by Lithotherm. A sustainable approach — all products are made of recycled and renewable raw materials. No glue or plastic modules are needed on the construction site. The floorboards are linked together and can easily be reassembled. Heat is transferred efficiently and without loss of energy to the floorboards on top. A thin layer of sheep’s wool that’s just a few millimeters thick lies between them. Like walking on clouds.

Photography: Sofie Latour

November 2020

In the next step, the floorboards developed by Eham will be installed. Solid wood from the firs of the alps that are felled exclusively in the winter, when hardly any water flows in the tree veins. Each board is as long as the room itself and entirely unique. No sanding, no artificial effects. The wood is naturally dried. Its lively surface reflects the character and independence of the trees felled for the floorboards.

Eventually, even the last speck of dust is removed from every construction site — the floors that were soaped in the factory get their final finish. Unlike many conventional forms of wood treatment, only natural materials are used in this process. The wood is not sealed, its pores remain open. Left in its natural state, the floor can breathe — absorbing and releasing humidity. The massive wood planks regulate the room climate and create a comfortable room atmosphere.

Eham’s excellence lies in the high standards we hold our details to. To this end, we combine the virtues of traditional craftsmanship with modern construction methods. To ensure a sustainable approach to the environment — and wooden floors that will last for many generations.

Fotografie: Sofie Latour

November 2020