Believe it or not, not all hardwood floors are created equal. Choices like color and finishing can send you spiraling into an aesthetic and price point you never intended. And aside from wood type, pattern, finishing, and installation, there’s one small detail on your flooring ‘to-choose’ list that’s often forgotten: wide versus narrow plank. It may seem like a simple selection, but your decision on plank size can impact the style and feel of your home, as well as the bottom line of your home renovation budget.
So which hardwood floor width is better?
Like everything else in interior design, there’s never a right or a wrong answer. But there are inevitable pros and cons to each choice. And depending on your financial situation, design preference, and even your home’s climate, one option is probably the better bet.
The Look
You’d be surprised how the length of your floorboards impacts a room’s aesthetic. Narrow planks appear more obviously broken out while larger planks give floors a widespread finish. In other words, wider planks look more like one big floor versus a textured collage.
Also, because they’re larger, wider planks show off the unique color, grain, and texture of wood while narrow planks have more of an industrial appearance. In general, narrow boards with a neutral finish are great for minimalist rooms while the color and texture in wide planks complement both rustic and traditionally styled homes.
The Size
It may sound obvious, but it’s something many fail to consider: wider planks fit larger rooms. The widespread appearance tends to dwarf smaller spaces, while nicely filling up space in rooms that have the space to spare. Narrow planks are great for narrow hallways or small kitchens.
The Price Point
Simply put, the wider the plank, the steeper the price tag. Of course it’s not an exact science, but in general, wider planks cost you. That’s because wider planks are often sourced from older and, therefore, less common trees.
If you’re on a tight budget but love the hardwood look, narrow boards can be a great money-saving solution.
The Installation Time
While pricier, wider planks have a much faster installation time than narrow boards. For many, this isn’t a dealbreaker, but it is something to be aware of as you’re beginning the remodeling process. How much time are you really willing to spend in a state of construction? With plank wood floors, it’s not just the width you’re paying for, but the convenience of a quick(er) turnaround time.
Related Questions
What exactly is a “wide” plank?
If you’re unfamiliar with wood floors, you might be uncertain if the floor beneath your feet is considered “wide” or “narrow.” The difference is usually quite striking when compared side-by-side, but for reference, wider planks are typically between 5-14 inches. You’ll find most wider planks between 5-8 inches. Narrow planks range from 2-5 inches, with most anywhere between 2¼ and 3¼ inches.
Is one style more durable?
Generally speaking, wider boards are more sensitive to long-term damage. Because of their size, wide planks need more space to expand and contract and will shift more easily due to environmental changes like temperature drops and the dreaded humidity. Nevertheless, you can purchase engineered wide planks of a higher quality that last just as long as a narrow option.
Hardwood Flooring Services Can Help
Hardwood floors are a stunning investment. They add elegance to every room and complement aesthetics from modern and minimalist to traditional and cozy. They’re low maintenance in comparison to their carpeted counterparts and when properly cared for, can last a lifetime. Whether you go wide or narrow, there’s no doubt hardwood will fit between your home’s four walls.
Trying to decide? Our flooring professionals can help! Cameron the Sandman has been providing hardwood flooring services to Michigan homes and businesses for more than 80 years. We are experts in the wood floor industry and can answer your questions so that you pick the perfect hardwood floors that combines your home’s unique style and needs. Whether you are seeking hardwood floor installation, refinishing, or restoring your hardwood floors, we’ve got you covered. Call our flooring specialists today for a consultation!