Hardwood Plank Flooring

Hardwood Plank Flooring Guide

Elevating Spaces with Nature's Palette: The Art of Hardwood Plank Flooring

In the realm of modern architecture and interior design, the choice of flooring plays a pivotal role in shaping the ambiance and functionality of a space. Among the myriad of options available, hardwood plank flooring stands out as a favorite for its unparalleled blend of natural beauty, versatility, and sustainability. This article delves into the intricacies of hardwood plank flooring, offering insights that architects, designers, and building contractors can apply to elevate their projects.

Defining Hardwood and Plank Flooring

In the context of wood flooring, "hardwood" refers to timber obtained from deciduous trees, known for their dense and durable nature. This includes species like oak, maple, and walnut. Plank flooring, on the other hand, comprises long, wide boards of wood, offering a classic and seamless look that showcases the wood's natural grain and character.

Types of Hardwood Plank Flooring

  • Oak: Renowned for its robustness and distinctive grain patterns, oak flooring adapts well to a variety of design themes, from rustic to contemporary. Available in hues ranging from light to rich amber, oak is often a go-to choice for high-traffic areas.
  • Maple: With its subtle grain and lighter color palette, maple lends a contemporary and understated elegance to spaces. Its hardness makes it suitable for areas subject to heavy use.
  • Walnut: Walnut's rich, deep tones bring warmth and sophistication. It’s less hard compared to oak or maple but its unique color variations make it a favorite for luxurious spaces.
  • Cherry: Cherished for its reddish hues that deepen over time, cherry wood adds a touch of time-honored grace. Its moderate hardness is ideal for spaces that seek a balance between durability and aesthetic appeal.

Each wood type resonates with different architectural styles – oak with traditional and industrial, maple with modern minimalism, walnut with luxurious interiors, and cherry with classic elegance.

Hardwood vs. Softwood Plank Flooring

The debate between hardwood and softwood plank flooring hinges on durability, aesthetics, and application. Hardwoods, being denser, generally offer greater longevity and resistance to wear, making them a preferred choice for high-traffic and commercial spaces. Softwoods, derived from coniferous trees, are softer and more susceptible to dents but offer a unique aesthetic and are often more cost-effective.

Installation, Durability, and Environmental Suitability

Hardwood plank flooring demands meticulous installation, often needing acclimation to the environment to prevent warping. Its durability varies with species but generally withstands years of use with proper maintenance. However, in areas with high moisture, like bathrooms, hardwoods can be prone to damage unless specially treated or chosen for their moisture-resistant properties.

Sustainable Practices

Sustainability in hardwood flooring involves responsibly sourcing timber and ensuring a minimal environmental footprint. This includes using reclaimed wood or sourcing from certified forests. Sustainable practices not only contribute to environmental conservation but also appeal to the growing eco-conscious market.

Technological Advances

Recent advancements have revolutionized hardwood plank flooring. Pre-finished planks with ultra-durable coatings reduce installation time and enhance longevity. Engineered hardwood floors, comprising a real hardwood layer atop a stable core, offer enhanced moisture resistance and are suitable for a wider range of environments.

Conclusion

Hardwood plank flooring, with its aesthetic versatility and enduring appeal, plays a crucial role in defining the character of a space. For professionals in architecture, design, and building, the choice of wood type, considering factors like grain, color, and hardness, can significantly influence both the functionality and the aesthetic of their projects. Incorporating sustainable practices and staying abreast of technological advances ensures that their choices are both environmentally responsible and aligned with modern needs. By judiciously selecting the right type of hardwood flooring, professionals can truly transform spaces, marrying beauty with practicality. This timeless material, when chosen and applied with care, not only enhances spaces but also narrates a story of nature, craftsmanship, and enduring style.


Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information presented, we make no warranties, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the content. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. We recommend consulting with professionals for specific advice tailored to your project’s needs, particularly regarding building codes, regulations, and product specifications.

Under no circumstances shall we be liable for any loss or damage, including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, arising from the use of, or reliance on, the information provided in this article.


Hardwood Plank Flooring

Top 3 Types of Hardwood Plank Flooring


Solid Plank Flooring

Wood Flooring - 855

Solid Plank Flooring

Solid hardwood floors are made of planks milled from a single piece of timber. Solid wood floors have a thicker wear surface and can be sanded and finished more times than an engineered wood floor.

See our collection solid plank flooring brands like Mirage Hardwood Floors, Mullican® Hardwood Flooring, Mercier Wood Flooring, Hallmark® Hardwood Flooring, Vintage Prefinished Hardwood Flooring, and more... Click below to see our whole selection of solid plank flooring brands!

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Wide Plank Flooring

Wood Flooring - 847

Wide Plank Flooring

Introducing our Wide Plank Wood Flooring: Crafted for elegance, durability, and timeless beauty. Elevate your space with the warmth of natural wood. Transform your home today!

See our collection wide plank flooring brands like Mannington Hardwood Flooring, Bruce® Hardwood Flooring, Somerset Hardwood Flooring, Mercier Wood Flooring, Johnson Hardwood Flooring, and more... Click below to see our whole selection of wide plank flooring brands!

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Random Width Plank Flooring

Wood Flooring - 854

Random Width Plank Flooring

Introducing our Random Width Plank Wood Flooring! Experience timeless elegance and natural beauty for your home. Transform your space with the warmth of real wood. Get started on your flooring journey today.

See our collection random width plank flooring brands like Mannington Hardwood Flooring, and more... Click below to see our whole selection of random width plank flooring brands!

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Featured Brands

The Best 8 Hardwood Plank Flooring Brands


Mannington Hardwood Plank Flooring
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Mannington Hardwood Plank Flooring

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The hardest American wood, Hickory is known for its rich character and distinct graining. Versatile and adaptable, this floor is a pleasant upgrade or addition to any room. Learn More

Mirage Hardwood Plank Flooring
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Mirage Hardwood Plank Flooring

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The Imagine Collection, a textured floor designed for real life. A unique process that adds texture to the wood and help hide the marks and scuffs of daily use. Learn More
Roomvo Visualizer

Mercier Hardwood Plank Flooring
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Mercier Hardwood Plank Flooring

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Red Oak (Quercus rubra) has a distinctive, textured grain with clearly visible growth rings. Its colour ranges from a slightly pinkish beige to a reddish brown. The colour of Red Oak moderately changes over time becoming lightly amber in hue. This wood has a Janka hardness rating of 1290. Learn More

Kraus Hardwood Plank Flooring
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Kraus Hardwood Plank Flooring

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A Kraus favorite! Moselle features timeless design and great colours. This handscraped, solid hardwood is available in 4 3/4″ and 5″ widths for those that are looking for a classic wood look. Learn More

ARK Floors
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ARK Floors

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Ark Floors brand, a division of A&W GROUP, is a United States company that draws an abundant resource of products from global enterprises. Learn More

PG Hardwood Plank Flooring
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PG Hardwood Plank Flooring

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PG manufactures flooring boards ready for factory finishing or varnishing on the premises after installation. Moreover, PG manufactures factory-finished flooring boards under the name, Model®. All told, PG offers a range of more than 5000 distinct products. As a flooring manufacturer, PG Hardwood Flooring is renowned for the exceptional quality of its products and a solid reputation backed by more than 30 years of experience. Learn More

Appalachian Flooring
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Appalachian Flooring

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We produce some of the finest Canadian made prefinished solid hardwood flooring and engineered hardwood flooring on the market. Learn More

Lamett® Hardwood Flooring
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Lamett® Hardwood Flooring

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Lamett has grown into the undisputed trendsetter in Wood, Laminate, and Luxury Vinyl flooring. Learn More

Hardwood Plank Flooring News

Latest Hardwood Plank Flooring News

Hardwood Plank Flooring
...Hardwood Plank Flooring: The Timeless Foundation of Modern Interior Design In the realm of interior design, few elements possess the enduring allure and practicality of hardwood plank flooring. Revered for its natural beauty, resilience, and adaptability, this flooring option has become a staple in modern interior spaces, elevating aesthetics while offering a range of functiona...