Tips on Using Wide Plank Flooring

Wide plank flooring is becoming a popular option for home flooring. The flooring strips for wide planks tend to be about two to three inches wide. In recent years, flooring planks have narrowed because flooring manufacturers are using thinner, younger trees.

If you are thinking about adding wide plank flooring to your home, here are some tips:

• Wide planks are subject to greater shrinkage and swelling than narrower wood boards. Make sure to control your home's humidity and temperature.
• Choose a style of wood for the wide plank floor. For a rustic look, consider woods like hickory or cherry.
• Determine a size. Many wide planks are two to three inches in width but there is no rule. Planks of five inches are easy to find and you can use planks seven or eight inches or larger.
• Verify the low moisture content of the wood. A low-moisture content can add to the longevity and stability of the flooring.
• Make sure the wood planks are installed properly. Tight seems are very important to the longevity of wide plank wood products.
• Mark the subfloor before beginning the installation process. It's important to know where the floor joists are when installing wide-plank flooring. Wider boards will expand and contract over time, depending on the moisture of the room.
• Measure and cut the planks. Measure the length of the floor and cut the planks to fit the dimensions.
• Nail the boards. Lay the first board down, then nail the board to the subflooring. When nailing the planks down, make sure you nail where the floor joists are located. Use cut nails with square heads to nail the planks.
• Consider adding glue. Once all the wood planks have been screwed in, apply a little wood flooring glue to each hole.

If you have questions, check with a professional hardwood provider to make sure you get the most out of your wide plank wood flooring.

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