In an ever-changing market flooded with a plethora of flooring options—ranging from laminate to Luxury Vinyl Flooring (LVT)—wood continues to hold its ground as a popular choice among homeowners and designers alike. However, one must navigate through varying dimensions and designs within wood flooring itself. Here, we delve into the specifics of narrow wood flooring, a style that has risen to prominence for several good reasons.
What Is Narrow Wood Flooring?
When we talk about wood flooring widths, they are generally categorised as standard, narrow, or wide. In the realm of narrow wood flooring, options are available in both solid wood and engineered forms.
Solid Wood Flooring
Solid wood flooring consists of a single piece of wood from top to bottom, and is generally 18–20mm thick. The species of wood can very, but its always the hardwood types as opposed to softwood. Most commonly Oak and Walnut hardwoods.
Engineered Wood Flooring
Engineered wood, on the other hand, is composed of a top layer of hardwood (again, most commonly Oak and Walnut) backed by multiple layers of plywood, MDF and softwood (in its core only). This makes it more stable and less susceptible to changes in temperature and humidity.
Narrow boards typically range from 100mm to 150mm in width, with 120mm, 125mm, and 150mm being the most popular choices. To give you a point of reference, standard wood flooring measures between 178mm to 190mm, and wide boards are those that extend from 195mm to a grand 300mm.
Why Use Narrow Wood Flooring
Narrow wood flooring comes with a myriad of benefits that make it a worthy contender for your next renovation project.
Affordable – Compared to its wider counterparts, narrow wood flooring is usually less expensive.
Easy to Install – The smaller width makes it easier and quicker to install, potentially saving you money on labour costs.
Versatile – Narrow boards can complement a multitude of styles, from rustic traditional to sleek contemporary homes.
Durable – Despite their size, narrow boards can be incredibly durable, capable of withstanding high-traffic areas.
Easy to Maintain – The surface area is easier to clean, and any repairs are often less time-consuming.
Aesthetic Benefits – The narrow dimensions can create a sense of elongation in a room, giving a unique visual appeal.
The Downside of Using Narrow Wood Flooring
However, it’s crucial to consider the downsides as well.
Space Perception – Narrow boards can make a room appear smaller, especially problematic in already confined spaces.
Noticeability – With more seams, the narrow boards can be more visually disruptive than wide boards, which might conflict with subtler design elements.
Availability – As less common than wider options, narrow wood flooring may require a bit more effort to locate.
More Seams – The increased number of seams might collect more dust and debris over time.
When To Use Narrow Wood Flooring
When considering narrow wood flooring, a few factors come into play.
Room Size – In larger spaces, narrow wood can add intricate detail. However, in smaller rooms, it can make the area look more cramped.
Style – This flooring suits contemporary and minimalist designs best, although it has a broader range of applications.
Budget – If you’re looking for a cost-effective yet stylish option, narrow wood flooring is worth considering, but don’t forget to factor in installation costs.
How to Cleverly Use Narrow Wood Flooring
You can optimise the visual appeal of narrow wood flooring with some clever design tricks.
Light Colours – A light colour palette will enhance the room’s brightness and perceived size.
Consistent Pattern – Maintaining a consistent laying pattern can create a sense of order and calm.
Large-Scale Furniture – Oversized furniture can help balance out the narrow width of the boards.
Use of Mirrors – Mirrors can reflect light and make the room appear larger, counteracting any confining effects of narrow flooring.
Conclusion
| Aspect | Pros of Narrow Wood Flooring | Cons of Narrow Wood Flooring | Considerations for Use | Design Tips for Optimisation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Affordability | Typically more budget-friendly than wider alternatives. | – | Keep in mind overall costs, including installation. | – |
| Ease of Installation | Simple and quick to fit, reducing labour expenses. | – | – | – |
| Versatility | Suits a range of interior styles from classic to modern. | – | Best for contemporary or minimalist setups. | – |
| Durability | Capable of enduring high foot traffic. | – | – | – |
| Maintenance | Less complicated to clean and repair. | Higher likelihood of dust accumulation due to more seams. | – | – |
| Aesthetic Appeal | Adds a unique elongated effect to the room. | May disrupt a room’s cohesive look due to more seams. | Consider room size; smaller spaces may look more confined. | Use consistent board layouts. |
| Room Perception | – | Can make smaller rooms seem even more restricted. | Use in larger areas for added texture and detail. | Apply light colour schemes. |
| Availability | – | Can be more challenging to find than wider boards. | – | – |
| Seam Count | – | More seams could mean more cleaning. | – | – |
| Design Flexibility | – | – | – | Incorporate large-scale furniture and mirrors. |
Narrow wood flooring, whether in its solid or engineered form, can be a fantastic addition to your home when used correctly. Given the broader spectrum of styles and affordable pricing, it’s an option worth considering for almost any room—especially if you opt for the more versatile engineered variant.
There you have it—a comprehensive guide to narrow wood flooring, designed to equip you with all the knowledge you need to make an informed decision for your next home project.
FAQ
What Exactly is Narrow Wood Flooring?
Narrow wood flooring refers to wood boards with a particular width that falls within the range of 100mm to 150mm. This category can include both solid wood and engineered wood types.
How Does Solid Wood Flooring Differ From Engineered Wood Flooring?
Solid wood flooring is made from a single piece of hardwood, generally between 18–20mm thick. Engineered wood is built from a hardwood top layer and backed by layers of plywood, MDF, and softwood, offering more stability against environmental changes.
What Are the Advantages of Choosing Narrow Wood Flooring?
Opting for narrow wood flooring is often more budget-friendly. The smaller dimensions make it easier to install, versatile in terms of design, and still durable enough for high-traffic areas.
Are There Downsides to Using Narrow Wood Flooring?
Yes, narrow wood flooring can make a small room appear even more confined. It also features more seams, which could collect dust or disrupt subtler design elements. Additionally, narrow wood options might be less readily available.
What Are Some Design Tips for Using Narrow Wood Flooring Effectively?
Light colour schemes can amplify the room’s perceived size. Consistency in the laying pattern and use of large furniture pieces can help mitigate some of the limitations of narrow wood flooring. Adding mirrors can also enhance spatial perception.