While wide plank wood flooring may evoke images of rustic cabins or historic houses, it can also bring a touch of style to contemporary homes. Beyond the traditional pine boards found in old cabins, wide plank flooring offers a diverse range of options. It encompasses various wood types, from softwoods to hardwoods, exotics to antiques.
Wide plank wood floors provide a refreshing alternative to narrow strip flooring, adding drama and distinction to any space. However, they are not suitable for every application or everyone’s taste. It’s important to consider the unique characteristics of wide plank flooring when contemplating wood floors.
What Does “Wide Plank” Mean?
In flooring, “wide plank” refers to boards wider than approximately 3 inches, often ranging from 5 to 20 inches wide. This broader width contributes to the visual impact and uniqueness of wide plank wood flooring compared to narrower strip floors.
Wide Range of Choices
One of the advantages of wide plank flooring is the extensive selection available. It’s not limited to any specific wood type. You can find wide planks crafted from softwoods like pine and fir, as well as various hardwoods, reclaimed and antique wood, and even exotic woods. Reclaimed wood, in particular, offers a dense grain structure that enhances stability, while exotic woods boast captivating beauty.
Benefits of Wide Plank Flooring
Wide plank wood floors offer aesthetic appeal as their primary benefit. They reflect a style choice that adds diversity to your space. However, it’s important to consider a few factors due to their size. Wide planks tend to shrink and swell more than narrow strip flooring, primarily in response to temperature and humidity changes.
To control this movement, it’s crucial to manage humidity and temperature levels in your home. Opting for wood with a tighter grain or a quarter-sawn or vertical grain orientation can also minimize swelling and shrinking. Alternatively, engineered wood offers greater stability due to its layered construction. Choosing a wood species with better dimensional stability can also mitigate issues associated with wide plank flooring.
Environmental Considerations
Wide plank wood flooring often incorporates reclaimed lumber, reducing waste and utilizing old-growth trees. Additionally, wood sourced from certified forests, such as those approved by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), ensures sustainable practices and a minimal environmental impact.
Cost Considerations
The cost of wide plank wood flooring varies based on wood species, including antique/reclaimed or exotic options, as well as whether it’s solid or engineered. Generally, wider planks come at a higher price. However, pricing structures may differ among vendors, offering opportunities to find deals that defy the wider-costs-more convention.
Considerations such as plank width availability, wood type, and the budget should guide your selection process. Here is a sample table of average prices for different wood types and plank widths, providing a glimpse into the range of costs.
Wide plank wood flooring is a stylish choice that adds character and elegance to modern homes. With its diverse options and unique appeal, it’s worth exploring wide plank flooring when considering wood floors.