When it comes to creating a striking impression and infusing any space with charm and elegance, few options rival the allure of wide plank wood flooring. But what exactly constitutes wide plank flooring? What are the advantages and potential disadvantages of choosing it over traditional flooring options? Let’s delve into the specifics.
What’s Considered ‘Wide Plank’
Traditionally, plank wood flooring can range from 120mm to 300mm in width. However, when we talk about ‘wide plank,’ we’re typically referring to planks that are 180mm wide and above. The popular sizes among these are the 180mm, 190mm, and 220mm variants.
Wide planks immediately command attention, thanks to their expansive surface that showcases the wood’s natural grain in a way narrow planks cannot. The 180mm plank, for example, strikes a balance between standard and wide plank flooring, making it an excellent choice for those looking to ease into the trend. The 190mm and 220mm planks, on the other hand, are a bold style statement, offering a generous surface area that allows the natural beauty and character of the wood to shine through.
Wide Plank Wood Flooring Types
Wide plank wood flooring comes in two principal types – solid and engineered.
Solid wide plank flooring is milled from a single piece of timber, and it exhibits natural variations that contribute to its unique aesthetic appeal. However, solid wood planks are more susceptible to changes in humidity and temperature.
In contrast, engineered wide plank flooring consists of a top layer of natural wood adhered to multiple layers of ply. This construction enhances the floor’s stability and reduces susceptibility to warping, making it suitable for areas with fluctuating conditions like the kitchen or bathroom.
Pros of Wide Plank Wood Flooring
Choosing wide plank wood flooring offers numerous benefits:
- Visual Interest: Wide planks create a unique aesthetic that adds character to your rooms. The broader surface area showcases the wood’s grain and knots better, contributing to the floor’s overall visual appeal.
- Sense of Space: Wide planks create an illusion of more space, providing a sense of openness, especially beneficial in smaller rooms.
- Luxury Appeal: There’s no denying that wide plank flooring looks expensive and high-end, contributing significantly to your home’s overall value.
- Reduced Installation Costs: Since wide planks cover more area, fewer pieces are needed, speeding up the installation process and potentially reducing costs.
- Durability: Wide plank flooring tends to be thicker, making it a highly durable option for high-traffic areas.
- Long-Term Value: Despite the upfront cost, the long-term value is excellent due to the planks’ durability and timeless appeal.
Cons of Wide Plank Wood Flooring
Despite the numerous advantages, it’s crucial to consider the potential downsides:
- Cost: Wide plank wood flooring can be more expensive than narrow planks due to the larger amount of timber used.
- Availability: Not all wood species or styles are available in wide plank options.
- Potential for Warping: Wide planks, particularly solid wood ones, may be more prone to warping due to changes in humidity and temperature.
- Installation Challenges: Installing wide planks can be more challenging and time-consuming, necessitating professional help.
How To Make Wide Plank Wood Flooring Work In Small Spaces
It’s a common misconception that wide plank wood flooring isn’t suitable for small spaces. However, with careful planning and the right strategy, you can make it work. Choose lighter colours to create a sense of spaciousness. Consider running the planks parallel to the longest wall to visually elongate the room. Finally, pair your wide plank floors with minimalist decor to avoid overwhelming the space.
How To Make Wide Plank Wood Flooring Work In Large Spaces
For large rooms, wide plank wood flooring can help break the monotony and add visual interest. You could consider mixing plank sizes or using rugs to break up the expanse. Also, thanks to their grandeur, wide planks can elevate the look and feel of large open-plan spaces.
Conclusion
Wide plank wood flooring offers a unique blend of aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. Whether you live in a compact apartment or a sprawling home, you can harness the charm of wide plank flooring to elevate your space. To find your perfect match, explore the wide variety of wide plank options available at Wood and Beyond today.
Remember, choosing the right flooring is about balancing your personal taste with practical considerations. With its inherent beauty and robust characteristics, wide plank wood flooring is a choice worth considering for your next home renovation.
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FAQ
What constitutes wide plank wood flooring?
Traditionally, plank wood flooring can range from 120mm to 300mm in width. However, when we talk about ‘wide plank,’ we’re typically referring to planks that are 180mm wide and above. The popular sizes among these are the 180mm, 190mm, and 220mm variants.
What are the types of wide plank wood flooring?
Wide plank wood flooring comes in two principal types – solid and engineered. Solid wide plank flooring is milled from a single piece of timber, whereas engineered wide plank flooring consists of a top layer of natural wood adhered to multiple layers of ply.
What are the benefits of wide plank wood flooring?
Choosing wide plank wood flooring offers numerous benefits, including creating a unique aesthetic that adds character to rooms, providing a sense of openness, contributing significantly to a home’s overall value, potentially reducing installation costs, being highly durable, and offering excellent long-term value.
What are the downsides to wide plank wood flooring?
Potential downsides include being more expensive than narrow planks due to the larger amount of timber used, not all wood species or styles being available in wide plank options, being more prone to warping due to changes in humidity and temperature, and the installation being more challenging and time-consuming.
How can wide plank wood flooring work in small and large spaces?
In small spaces, choose lighter colours to create a sense of spaciousness and run the planks parallel to the longest wall to visually elongate the room. In large rooms, wide plank wood flooring can help break the monotony and add visual interest. Consider mixing plank sizes or using rugs to break up the expanse.