ABSTRACT
The main purpose of a floor is to transfer dynamic loads related with the traffic on its surface, and static loads of the objects that are placed on its top. The loads are transferred through the parquet and the load bearing structure made of ceiling beams or joists; or through parquet and the subfloor with an insulation layer. This chapter analyses the structural solutions and the state of preservation of antique decorative wooden floors and evaluates the issue of their adjustment to contemporary requirements related with the usage of wooden floors, in order to inform the decision whether they can be renovated or should be replaced. It investigates included 19th century floors from buildings located in South-Eastern Poland. Elements of chosen antique floors were tested for their chemical, physical and mechanical properties. The results served as the basis to propose conservation works.
