Why Choose Wide Plank Hardwood Flooring: The Pros & Cons
Posted: March 3, 2025Author – Ryan Palma Owner/CEO Sustainable Lumber Co.
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What Is Wide Plank Hardwood Flooring?
When it comes to transforming your home’s interior, few choices can make as significant an impact as your flooring. Wide plank hardwood flooring has surged in popularity, offering a unique blend of aesthetic appeal, durability, and character that traditional strip flooring cannot match.
Wide plank hardwood flooring refers to planks that are wider than traditional strip flooring, typically measuring at least 7 inches wide. This broader format creates a distinctive visual appeal while showcasing the wood’s natural grain and texture. We will explore the pros and cons of wide plank hardwood flooring to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your home.
Pros & Cons of Wide Plank Hardwood Flooring
Pros:
Aesthetic Appeal – Wide planks can give a room a more rustic, classic, and even modern look, depending on the finish color and wood species. They often highlight the natural beauty of the wood grain more prominently than narrower planks. Whether you’re aiming for a rustic cabin vibe, a sleek modern look, or something in between, the width of these planks accentuates the natural beauty of the wood.
Texture – Generally, a wide plank floor is used to create a rustic or modern design. Techniques like wire brushing, circular sawing, or hand scraping add layers of depth or texture, enhancing the character of the room. These finishes not only define the look but also make every day wear less noticeable, preserving the floor’s aesthetic over time.
Variety of Wood Options – You can find wide plank flooring in various types of wood, including Oak, Hickory, Walnut, Pine, and Douglas Fir. Each type of wood offers a different color, texture, grain pattern, and durability.
Durability and Maintenance – The durability depends on the wood species and whether the flooring is solid or engineered. Engineered wide plank hardwood flooring offers better stability in humid environments and reduces expansion and contraction. Textured finishes help conceal minor dents, dings, and scratches. Maintenance involves regular cleaning, occasional refinishing, or recoating to protect the surface.
Character and Imperfections – Since wider planks use larger pieces of wood, natural characteristics like knots, minerals streaks, grain patterns, color variations, and cracks are more visible. These natural imperfections are celebrated for adding authenticity and warmth to your home.
Sustainability – Many manufacturers, including Sustainable Lumber Co., offer eco-friendly wide plank hardwood flooring made from responsibly managed forests or reclaimed wood.
Cons:
Cost – While undeniably beautiful, wide plank hardwood flooring often comes with a higher cost. This is due to the larger wood pieces, which might require cutting from older or larger trees or additional processing to achieve the wider widths. However, the investment is often seen as worthwhile for the aesthetic and functional benefits it brings.
Installation Considerations – Wide plank hardwood flooring installation requires more planning due to potential expansion and contraction. Depending on the subfloor type, specific installation methods may be required.
Wide Plank Hardwood Flooring Installation Methods
Wide plank flooring can be installed using several methods, depending on the subfloor and room conditions:
- Nail-Down Method – The planks are directly nailed to the wood subfloor using a flooring nailer.
- Full Glue-Down Method – Ideal for concrete subfloors, using a mastic glue that is troweled on to completely cover the subfloor.
- Nail & Glue-Down Method – A combination of nailing and gluing. The glue is typically applied in a serpentine pattern on the back of the planks.
- Floating Floor Method – The planks are glued together at the tongue and groove but are not attached to the subfloor, allowing them to “float” over it.
Each method has its merits, depending on the room’s conditions and the homeowner’s future renovation plans.
Final Thoughts: Is Wide Plank Hardwood Flooring Right for You?
Wide plank hardwood flooring isn’t just a floor—it’s a statement. While it comes with a higher cost, it offers unmatched beauty, durability, and character that can last for generations.
Whether you’re drawn to the rustic charm of reclaimed wood or the sleek modern appeal of wide planks, this flooring option enhances any home’s interior. However, before making a decision, consider the pros and cons, installation requirements, and long-term maintenance.
Contact Us for a Quote
Our knowledgeable team is here to answer any additional questions you may have. Call us today for a free quote on our sustainable wide plank hardwood flooring at 406-642-7120 or click here to submit an inquiry online. We look forward to helping you with your next project!