Wide Plank Solid Hardwood Flooring

One decision you face with hardwood flooring is plank options. You can select from narrow widths, typically three inches or less. Or you can opt for wider planks as your flooring option. With either, you capture all the inherent benefits of wood flooring.

However, wide plank solid hardwood flooring has become increasingly popular among homeowners and interior designers. It adds a striking, cohesive look to spaces, whether you’re renovating a modern loft or a cozy cottage. Wide planks offer versatility and aesthetic appeal, setting them apart from traditional narrow boards.

What is Considered Wide Plank Flooring?

Wide plank flooring generally refers to hardwood planks broader than the standard 2-4 inch planks. Most wide planks start at 5 inches and can go up to 8 inches or more, depending on the species and manufacturer. The broader format emphasizes the natural beauty of the wood grain. It also creates a more seamless look with fewer seams and joints.

5 Benefits of Wide Plank Solid Wood Flooring

Wide plank hardwood flooring offers several benefits, making it an attractive option for many homeowners. Here are some of the key advantages:

1.    Wide Plank Wood Flooring Offers a Stunning Visual Impact

One of the most significant benefits of wide plank flooring is its visual impact. The broader surface area of each plank highlights the natural grain, knots, and unique wood patterns. Moreover, the reduced seams give the floor a more open, expansive feel.

2.    Fewer Seams and Joints Create an Open Feel

Wide planks mean fewer seams across the floor, contributing to a cleaner, more streamlined look. This reduction in seams can help make small spaces feel more extensive and open. Additionally, fewer seams mean fewer places for dirt and dust to accumulate. That makes wide plank solid hardwood flooring easier to maintain and keep clean.

3.    Design Versatility to Fit Any Style

Wide planks aren’t just a fad. They’re a versatile and enduring choice for both contemporary and traditional homes.

People often associate wide planks with rustic or farmhouse styles. But they’re incredibly versatile and can adapt to various interior styles, including modern, traditional, and industrial. This adaptability has made them a popular choice for homeowners looking to create unique and personalized spaces.

4.    Wide Plank Flooring Installs Faster

One advantage of wide plank hardwood flooring is that it requires less installation time than traditional narrow planks. Because each wide plank covers a larger surface area, you need fewer boards to complete the floor. That means fewer seams to align and secure, reducing the overall time and labor required for installation.

Wide plank solid hardwood flooring is perfect for homeowners who want style and quality without compromise.

5.    Long-Term Value

Installing wide plank hardwood flooring can increase the resale value of your home. Its luxurious appearance and high-quality construction are attractive features for potential buyers, making it a worthwhile investment. The wide plank floors’ distinctive look and feel become a focal point of any room, adding a sense of refinement and craftsmanship.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Wide Plank Flooring

Do wide plank solid wood floors only fit a rustic style?

No, wide-plank solid wood floors can fit virtually any interior style. Their natural, expansive appearance absolutely enhances a rustic or farmhouse look.

But they’re also highly versatile and can complement various interior designs. Wide planks can create a clean, modern aesthetic in contemporary spaces and add elegance and warmth to traditional settings. They can also serve as a stunning foundation for eclectic or transitional styles. The key is choosing the wood species, finish, and installation pattern to match your desired look.

Are wide plank floors more expensive than traditional narrow plank floors?

Wide plank solid hardwood flooring can be more expensive than narrower boards owing to the larger size of each plank. It requires more raw materials and higher quality standards. However, the cost can vary depending on the wood species, finish, and whether you choose solid or engineered hardwood. Despite the higher upfront cost, many homeowners find the aesthetic and functional benefits worth the investment.

Do wide planks make a room look smaller?

On the contrary, wide plank flooring often makes a room appear larger and more open. The fewer seams and uninterrupted surface of wide planks can create an illusion of space. Light-colored wood species can further enhance this effect.

Are wide plank floors harder to maintain?

Wide plank floors are not inherently more challenging to maintain than narrow planks. However, they do require proper care to keep them looking their best. Regular sweeping or vacuuming and using the correct cleaning products will help maintain the finish.

Are wide planks less stable than narrow planks?

Wide planks can be more susceptible to changes in humidity and temperature, which can cause expansion and contraction. However, wide plank engineered hardwood flooring is more stable thanks to its cross-layer construction. Proper acclimation and installation are crucial to minimizing movement and ensuring long-term stability.

Hartco® Offers an Impressive Collection of Wide Plank Flooring

If wide plank solid hardwood flooring sounds perfect for your home, Hartco® is the ideal source. It offers solid and engineered hardwood options in maple, hickory, white, and red oak.

You can select from 5″ to 7″ widths or even slightly larger at 7-1/4″ widths. As an added touch, wire-brushed and hand-scraped options enhance the appeal of natural hardwoods.

Hartco flooring is available at flooring retailers throughout the U.S.