Most people think about furniture, wall color, lighting, and space when it comes to interior design. However, the flooring you choose will have a significant impact on the look and feel of your home.

Wood plank flooring is one of the most popular flooring choices on the market today. With that in mind, we have compiled a list of some of the most frequently asked questions about wood plank flooring so that you can decide whether or not it’s the right choice for your next home improvement project.

What Is Wood Plank Flooring?

Timber is used to manufacture wood plank flooring, and it comes in an array of different colors, styles, and wood species. Typically, wood planks are about three inches wide yet can be as much as ten to 20 inches in width and measure as much as 16 feet in length, depending on individual style and needs. With wide plank hardwood floors becoming a recent trend, many homeowners are investigating installing wide plank wood floors in their homes.

Photo of Wide plank Wood Flooring via Gaylord Hardwood Flooring

What Is The History Of Wood Plank Flooring?

The use of hardwood flooring in this country can be traced to the mid 17th century when unfinished planks, supported by joists over stone or dirt. Wood plank flooring became an element of style and elegance around the Baroque Era (1625-1714). Today, hardwood plank flooring continues to be a popular choice for homeowners, with many people taking great lengths to preserve historical wood plank floors in their old homes.

What Are The Best Wood Species Used In Hardwood Plank Flooring?

The best wood species used in hardwood plank floors include oak, cherry, maple, walnut, pine, and chestnut.

What Are The Benefits Of Wood Plan Floors?

There are several great benefits associated with the use of hardwood plank flooring.

Benefits include:

• Greater durability and density: Wood plank flooring is more durable and dense than stip flooring. Wood plank flooring typically lasts between ten and 20 years, while many other floor materials have an average five-year life span.
• Easy maintenance: Hardwood plank floors are easy to maintain, requiring sweeping and mopping regularly. Since hardwood plank flooring will not harbor dander or dust the way carpeting will, it is better for those who suffer from allergies.
• Faster Installation: Because wood plank flooring pieces are wider, they use more space per square foot and can be installed quickly.
• Unique visual appeal: Wood plank floors are natural, so they feature more imperfections to bring character to the space. Features include mineral streaks, natural splits, knots, and other natural imperfections.

Where Should I Use Hardwood Plank Floors In My Home?

Because of their durability, hardwood plank floors may be used anywhere in the home. The most popular places for installing wood plank flooring include living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, home offices, and family rooms. Wood plank flooring is even great for the kitchen, as long as you’re willing to maintain it properly. Wood plank flooring in laundry rooms and bathrooms should be avoided.

Are Hardwood Plank Floors Made Of Natural Wood?

Yes. Hardwood plank floors are manufactured using timber from various wood species and come in varying sizes, colors, and styles. Because they are manufactured from natural wood, they are more durable and visually unique.

What Are Wood Plank Laminate Floors?

Wood plank laminate floors are multi-layered synthetic products fused to create a product that simulates wood. Its inner core is typically composed of resin and fiberboard materials. Although laminate wood plank floor products are manufactured to look like natural wood plank flooring, there is no comparison because nothing beats natural wood plank flooring.

What Is The Thickness Of Hardwood Plank Flooring?

Standard hardwood plank flooring typically measures from 5/16 to 3/4 inches thick. However, engineered hardwood flooring comes in additional thicknesses but is usually the same as traditional solid hardwood.

What Is The Difference Between Solid And Engineered Hardwood Flooring?

Engineered wood plank floors look a lot like solid hardwood. However, it features a thin hardwood layer bonded over a premium plywood layer, offering good stability. It is less expensive and far easier to install than solid wood flooring. Quality engineered wood flooring can last up to 30 years.

engineered wood plank floor cross-section

Is An Engineered Hardwood Flooring Product Better Than Solid Hardwood Flooring?

An engineered hardwood flooring product is the best choice for hardwood floor installation in high-moisture environments, such as bathrooms, basements, and kitchens. For other rooms, however, both options are appropriate.

Can I Install Wood Plank Flooring On My Own?

Because there have been so many advancements in wood flooring, it has never been easier to install hardwood plank flooring on your own. However, hiring a professional wood floor installation expert will save time and protect you from the possibility of making costly mistakes. Also, remember that when installing your wood plank flooring, in addition to the cost of materials, you will have to pay for installation tools or tool rental.

If you are interested in the various available wood plank flooring options or have additional questions about wood plank flooring, contact the wood plank flooring experts at Artisan Wood Floors LLC at 215-515-7355. We have decades of experience installing wood plank flooring in Philadelphia and the surrounding area – remember to ask for Steve!