Wide Plank Flooring
The wide plank flooring is becoming very popular because it is unique and beautiful flooring. It is exquisitely suited to a more relaxed decor, or country theme. It elicits a nostalgic response in many people. Wide plank floor presents a bolder statement than the more common and narrower hardwood strips. There are many woods from which to choose, an easier installation process, and an extensive choice of stains.
Benefits of Wide Plank Wood Floors
One of the benefits of wide plank hardwood floor is easy maintenance. Unlike carpet, it is easily swept, mopped or vacuumed, and will not hide dirt. It rarely needs replacing. Some recycled hardwood has been around for more than centuries, rescued from buildings that were built in the 1700-1900's. Another of the benefits of wide plank hardwood flooring, is that it disguises an imperfect floor, and at times, uses imperfections to its advantage.
Wood Qualities and Choices
One of the most obvious and desireable differences in wide plank wood is its wider, longer, and thicker measurements. Wide plank floors present a solid and long-lasting appearance. Board width is partly to account for this, as wood can be ordered in widths up to about 20 inches. Length of boards may vary, but can come in longer lengths not seen in narrower wood flooring.
The thickness of the hardwood is generally around 3/4", but this may depend on the source. There is plenty to choose from, when selecting the correct wide plank hardwood flooring qualities that match the buyer's vision for the finished product, at the desired cost.
Hardwoods offer a variety of colors, grains and textures. Hardwoods are stronger and more durable than the classification of softer woods which can sustain damage more easily. Some varieties of hardwoods include oak, red oak, cherry, walnut, hickory, pecan, ash, and maple. Hardwood costs will fluctuate. Colors vary from light to dark. Lighter wood choices for wide plank hardwood blend especially well with stains.
Installation and Sub-flooring Requirements
Wide plank sub-flooring requirements are very important, and a professional installer is best suited to determine moisture issues or contra indications to installing a hardwood floor.
Installation may go over 3/4"-5/8" plywood, which can be installed over slab. Alternatively, it can be laid over other wood flooring which has been properly prepared. For new floors, the installer will make recommendations as to which sub-flooring will be used.
Professional installation is recommended for installing wide plank hardwood flooring. Although this can be accomplished by "Do-it-Yourselfers," there are moisture controls which must be monitored, and for new construction, there is an order in which the floor should be installed, relative to the other materials and fixtures. This addresses fit as well as moisture, and a professional can help avoid unforseen problems.
Stain Choices
Stains and clear finishes let the beauty of the wood and grain show through, while protecting the wood itself. Most wood develops a patina, which over time, will darken the wood somewhat. Some stains actually speed this process, which is considered desireable.
Lighter woods can be maintained with clear or slightly tinted stains, to obtain proper hues. Darker woods can sport clear or tinted finishes, oils, or even paint. The floor installer can suggest the best stain choices for wide plank wood floor to attain the best results.