Wide Plank Hardwood Flooring: Pros & Cons

You've likely seen it in high-end homes and design magazines, but what exactly makes wide plank hardwood flooring different? It’s more than just a trend; it’s a fundamental shift in how we view a room’s foundation. By using boards five inches or wider, this flooring creates a seamless, uncluttered canvas that enhances any interior style. However, these beautiful, expansive planks also require special attention when it comes to installation, humidity control, and budget. This guide will walk you through all the essential details, helping you understand if this stunning flooring is the right practical choice for your project.

Key Takeaways

• Embrace the 'Less is More' Aesthetic: Wide plank flooring uses fewer, broader boards to create a clean, uninterrupted surface. This simple change makes any room feel more spacious and allows the natural character of the wood to become the main design feature.
• Don't Skip the Prep Work: The success of your floor depends on what happens before installation. You must allow the wood to acclimate to your home's environment for several days and ensure a professional installs it correctly to prevent future issues like gapping or cupping.
• Invest in Quality for Lasting Results: While wide plank flooring costs more upfront, it's a durable choice that adds significant value to your home. Focus on finding a reputable supplier and a product with a solid warranty to ensure your beautiful new floors stand the test of time.

What Is Wide Plank Hardwood Flooring?

If you’ve ever walked into a room and felt an immediate sense of open, modern luxury, there’s a good chance you were standing on wide plank hardwood flooring. Unlike the traditional narrow strips of wood that have been common for decades, wide plank flooring uses boards that are significantly broader, creating a clean, expansive look. This style minimizes the number of seams you see on the floor, which allows the natural beauty and grain of the wood to take center stage. It’s a design choice that feels both timeless and contemporary, capable of transforming a space from cluttered and busy to calm and sophisticated.

Whether you’re renovating a historic home or building a new one from the ground up, understanding the fundamentals of wide plank flooring will help you decide if it’s the right fit for your project. From the specific dimensions that define it to the visual effect it has on a room, let’s break down exactly what makes this flooring option so popular.

Defining "Wide Plank"

So, what exactly counts as "wide plank"? While there isn't a single industry-wide rule, the general consensus is that any hardwood board five inches or wider falls into this category. For comparison, standard hardwood flooring typically comes in narrow strips, usually between 2¼ and 4 inches wide. Wide planks, on the other hand, often start at 5 or 6 inches and can go up to 10, 12, or even wider for a truly dramatic effect. This extra width is the key feature that sets it apart, creating a distinct look that feels more substantial and luxurious underfoot.

The Visual Impact on Your Space

The magic of wide plank flooring lies in its visual effect. Because the boards are wider, there are far fewer seams running across your floor. This creates a clean, uninterrupted surface that makes any room feel larger and more open. Your eyes aren't distracted by dozens of busy lines, allowing the natural character, knots, and grain of the wood to become the main attraction. This simple change can elevate the entire feel of your space, giving it a high-end, custom look that’s hard to achieve with standard-width hardwood flooring. It’s a perfect choice for open-concept living areas, spacious bedrooms, or any room you want to feel more expansive.

Standard vs. Wide Plank Sizes

The difference between standard and wide plank flooring goes beyond just the width. The length of the boards also plays a huge role in the final look. Standard hardwood boards are often shorter, typically around four feet long, which contributes to a busier, more traditional pattern. In contrast, wide plank boards are frequently much longer, sometimes reaching 12 to 16 feet. This combination of greater width and length is what produces that seamless, flowing appearance. Fewer boards are needed to cover the same area, resulting in a cleaner, more cohesive design that showcases the wood’s natural beauty.

Popular Wood Species to Consider

One of the best things about wide plank flooring is the variety of wood species available, each offering a unique look and feel. Oak, both Red and White, is a timeless favorite known for its durability and classic grain pattern. For a darker, more dramatic look, Walnut provides rich, deep tones that feel incredibly sophisticated. Hickory is another popular choice, prized for its strength and distinctive color variations. Other options like Maple, Cherry, and Birch also make beautiful wide plank floors. The species you choose will influence not only the color and style but also the floor's hardness and ability to stand up to daily life.

Understanding the Cost

It’s important to know that wide plank flooring is generally more expensive than its standard-width counterpart. The reason comes down to simple supply and demand. The wide, long, and clear boards required for this style can only be milled from older, larger, and more mature trees, which are less common. The manufacturing process is also more meticulous to ensure the boards remain stable and flat. While the upfront cost is higher, many homeowners and builders view it as a worthwhile investment. The premium look adds significant aesthetic and resale value to a property. For contractors and designers, our trade program offers bulk discounts to help manage project costs.

How to Install Wide Plank Flooring

Installing wide plank flooring is a bit more involved than laying standard-width boards, but the stunning result is well worth the effort. Because each plank covers more surface area, any imperfections in the subfloor or installation process can be magnified. The key to a beautiful, long-lasting floor lies in careful preparation and understanding how these larger planks behave. From letting the wood acclimate to your home’s environment to choosing the right installation method, every step is crucial.

While it might be tempting to tackle this as a weekend project, wide plank installation often requires a professional touch. These boards are more susceptible to movement, cupping, and gapping if not secured perfectly. A seasoned installer will know how to prepare the subfloor, manage humidity, and use the proper techniques—like a combination of nailing and gluing—to ensure your floors stay flat and stable for years to come. Getting the installation right from the start protects your investment and guarantees a flawless finish that transforms your space.

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional

While the DIY spirit is admirable, installing wide plank flooring is one of those jobs best left to the pros. Unlike narrower strips, wide planks are less forgiving. Even a slightly uneven subfloor can cause boards to bend or create unsightly gaps over time. Professionals typically use a nail-and-glue-assist method, which provides the extra stability these larger boards need to prevent shifting and cupping. Hiring an experienced installer ensures the job is done right, protecting your beautiful new hardwood flooring and saving you from costly repairs down the road. It’s a worthwhile investment for a flawless, long-lasting finish.

The Importance of Acclimation

Before a single plank is laid, your new flooring needs to get used to its new home. This process is called acclimation, and it’s absolutely critical for wide plank floors. Wood is a natural material that expands and contracts with changes in temperature and humidity. To prevent future gapping or buckling, you must let the planks sit in the room where they will be installed for at least three to seven days. This allows the moisture content of the wood to stabilize and match the ambient conditions of your space. Skipping this step is one of the biggest mistakes you can make, so be patient—it’s the foundation for a successful installation.

Preparing Your Subfloor

A perfect floor starts with a perfect foundation. Your subfloor must be clean, dry, and, most importantly, flat. Any bumps or dips will be noticeable once the wide planks are installed and can cause squeaking or hollow spots. Use a long level to check for inconsistencies and use a leveling compound to fill in any low areas. For the best structural support, the flooring should be installed perpendicular to the floor joists. If you have a single-layer subfloor, running the planks on a diagonal can also add strength. Taking the time to properly prepare your subfloor is a non-negotiable step for a professional-quality result.

Choosing an Installation Method

For wide plank flooring, the gold standard is the glue-and-nail-assist method. This technique involves applying a serpentine bead of wood flooring adhesive to the subfloor before nailing each plank into place. The glue provides a powerful bond that minimizes movement, squeaks, and gapping, which is especially important for wider boards that are more prone to shifting. While floating floors are an option for some engineered planks, the glue-and-nail approach offers superior stability for solid hardwood. Also, keep in mind that you shouldn't install flooring over an area larger than 30 feet wide or 50 feet long without adding an expansion joint.

Managing Climate and Humidity

Wood is a living material, and it will always react to the environment around it. Maintaining consistent humidity levels in your home is essential for the health of your wide plank floors. The ideal indoor relative humidity range is between 35% and 55%. In dry climates or during winter months, you may need to use a humidifier to add moisture to the air. In humid summers, a dehumidifier or air conditioning will be your best friend. Keeping the climate stable prevents the wood from swelling or shrinking excessively, which is the primary cause of gapping between boards and other long-term issues.

Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid

Even small errors can lead to big problems with wide plank floors. One of the most common mistakes is failing to leave an adequate expansion gap—typically about 3/4 of an inch—around the perimeter of the room. This space allows the floor to expand and contract naturally without buckling. Another pitfall is improper nailing, which can split the wood or fail to secure the boards properly. Finally, trying to install planks that aren't perfectly straight or milled can be a challenge. Using a high-quality product from a trusted supplier like USA Builders Depot helps ensure a tighter, more uniform fit from the start.

The Pros: Why Choose Wide Plank Flooring?

If you’re aiming for a floor that makes a statement, wide plank hardwood is tough to beat. It’s become a go-to for designers, builders, and homeowners who want to create a space that feels both timeless and modern. The appeal goes far beyond just a trend; it’s about how these larger boards fundamentally change the look and feel of a room. With fewer seams breaking up the visual flow, wide planks create a clean, expansive canvas that lets the natural beauty of the wood shine through.

This style of hardwood flooring offers a unique combination of luxury and authenticity. It can make a small room feel larger, a large room feel grander, and any space feel more cohesive. Whether you’re renovating a historic home or building a contemporary masterpiece, wide planks provide a versatile foundation that complements nearly any aesthetic. They are an investment in your property’s character and value, offering a durable and beautiful surface that stands the test of time. For trade professionals, suggesting wide plank flooring can set your projects apart, and taking advantage of bulk discounts makes it an even smarter choice for your clients.

Creates a High-End, Modern Look

There’s an undeniable sense of luxury that comes with wide plank flooring. Because the boards are broader, there are far fewer seams on the floor. This creates a clean, continuous surface that feels sophisticated and uncluttered. Your eyes aren't distracted by busy lines, allowing the floor to feel like a single, elegant plane. This minimalist quality is perfect for modern and contemporary designs, where simplicity and high-end finishes are key. It’s a subtle detail that makes a huge impact, giving any room a custom, architectural feel that standard flooring just can't replicate.

Makes Any Room Feel More Spacious

One of the most powerful benefits of wide plank flooring is its ability to make a room feel bigger. The reduced number of seams—up to 75% fewer than traditional strip flooring—makes the floor look less "busy" and more open. This visual trick works wonders in any space, from cozy bedrooms to open-concept living areas. The long, uninterrupted lines of the planks draw the eye across the room, creating an illusion of greater length and width. If you're working with a smaller footprint or simply want to create a more airy, expansive atmosphere, wide planks are a brilliant design choice.

Showcases Natural Wood Character

If you truly love the natural beauty of wood, wide planks are the best way to show it off. Each board provides a larger canvas to display the intricate grain patterns, unique knots, and subtle color variations that make every piece of wood one-of-a-kind. Instead of being cut up into narrow strips, the wood’s organic character is preserved and highlighted. This turns your floor from a simple surface into a stunning feature element in your home. It’s an authentic look that brings warmth and texture to a space, celebrating the material in its most impressive form.

Adds to Your Property Value

Investing in high-quality materials is always a smart move, and wide plank flooring is no exception. It’s widely recognized as a premium feature that can significantly increase your home's resale value. Potential buyers often associate wide planks with custom craftsmanship and high-end design, making your property stand out in a competitive market. It’s an upgrade that not only enhances your daily life but also provides a tangible return on investment. For builders and renovators, installing beautiful hardwood flooring is a reliable way to add appeal and justify a higher asking price.

Complements Any Design Style

Don’t mistake wide plank flooring for a one-trick pony. Its versatility is one of its greatest strengths. The same wide planks can create completely different feelings depending on the wood species, finish, and surrounding decor. A rustic, hand-scraped hickory can anchor a modern farmhouse look, while a smooth, light-washed oak is perfect for a breezy coastal or Scandinavian-inspired space. It pairs beautifully with other design elements, from rugged brick walls to sleek steel windows. This adaptability ensures that your floors will remain stylish and relevant, even if you decide to change your decor down the road.

The Cons: What to Know Before You Buy

As much as we love the look of wide plank flooring, it’s important to go into the decision with your eyes wide open. Like any premium building material, it comes with a unique set of challenges that you’ll want to plan for. From the initial budget to long-term maintenance, understanding these potential drawbacks will help you make a choice you’ll be happy with for years to come. Let’s walk through the key considerations so you can feel confident about your investment and prepare your project for success.

The Higher Upfront Cost

Wide plank flooring typically comes with a higher price tag than its narrower counterparts, and for a good reason. To get those beautiful, expansive planks, manufacturers need to source wood from larger, more mature trees. The milling process also produces more waste to achieve the desired width and quality, which contributes to the final cost. While you’re investing in a premium look, it’s essential to factor this into your budget from the start. You can explore different species and finishes of hardwood flooring to find an option that aligns with your project's financial plan.

A More Complex Installation

This is one area where you don’t want to cut corners. Installing wide planks is more challenging than standard flooring and generally isn’t recommended as a DIY project. Because of their width, these boards are more prone to bending or creating gaps if they aren’t laid with precision. To ensure a stable, long-lasting floor, professionals often use a combination of nailing and gluing, which is a more time-consuming and meticulous process. If you’re a contractor, our trade program can help you get the best materials for the job.

Sensitivity to Moisture and Humidity

Wood is a natural material that breathes, meaning it expands when it’s humid and shrinks when it’s dry. This movement is much more noticeable in wide planks. In humid seasons, the boards can swell and press against each other, sometimes causing the edges to curl upward in a process called "cupping." In drier months, you might see small gaps appear between the boards as they contract. Proper acclimation of the wood before installation and maintaining a stable indoor humidity level are critical to keeping your floors looking their best.

Challenges with Repairs

Life happens, and floors can get damaged. With wide plank flooring, repairs can be a bit more involved. If a single board gets a deep scratch or stain, replacing it isn't as simple as with narrower strips. Because the planks are often glued and nailed down so securely for stability, removing just one without affecting the surrounding boards requires skill and patience. It’s a good idea to keep a few extra planks from your installation batch just in case you need a perfect match for a future repair.

How Climate Can Affect Your Floors

Your local climate plays a significant role in how your hardwood floors will behave over time. It’s not just about high humidity; significant temperature fluctuations can also cause the wood to expand and contract. Even in regions that aren't considered overly humid, a swing from 50°F to 100°F throughout the year can put stress on wide planks. This is why choosing the right wood species for your environment and ensuring a flawless installation are so important. An experienced installer will know how to account for your climate to minimize seasonal movement.

How to Care for Your Wide Plank Floors

Investing in beautiful wide plank flooring means you’ll want to keep it looking its best for years to come. The good news is that maintenance is surprisingly straightforward. With a simple routine and a little attention to your home’s environment, you can easily protect your floors from daily wear and tear. Following a few key practices will ensure your hardwood remains a stunning feature in your home, preserving its character and value over the long haul.

Simple Daily Upkeep

The best way to care for your wide plank floors is to prevent damage before it starts. Daily dirt and grit are the biggest culprits behind scratches and a dull finish. To keep your floors looking fresh, you should regularly dust mop or sweep them with a soft microfiber cloth. If you prefer to vacuum, make sure to use a soft-bristle head attachment and avoid the beater bar, which can dent or scratch the wood. Placing doormats at all entrances will also trap dirt before it ever reaches your floors. This simple habit goes a long way in maintaining that warm, inviting glow.

Controlling Your Home's Humidity

Wood is a natural material that expands and contracts with changes in moisture. Wide planks are more noticeably affected by these shifts, making humidity control essential. You should aim to maintain a relative humidity level between 35% and 55% year-round. In the winter, a humidifier can prevent the air from becoming too dry, which can cause planks to shrink and gap. During humid summer months, an air conditioner or dehumidifier will stop them from swelling or cupping. Monitoring your home’s climate is one of the most effective ways to protect your hardwood flooring investment for a lifetime.

Best Practices for Deep Cleaning

For messes that go beyond simple dust, a light cleaning is all you need. Avoid using harsh chemicals, oil soaps, or steam mops, as these can damage the wood’s finish and leave a dulling residue. Instead, a damp mop is your best tool. For a gentle but effective clean, you can use a weak mixture of one to two ounces of white vinegar in two gallons of water. Be sure to wring out your mop thoroughly so it’s just damp, not wet, as excess water can harm the wood. Always check your flooring manufacturer’s specific cleaning recommendations first.

A Guide to Refinishing

One of the greatest benefits of solid hardwood is its longevity. While daily care keeps it looking great, your floors may eventually need to be refinished to erase years of wear. This process, which involves sanding the surface and applying a new protective coat, is typically only needed every 15 to 25 years. The ability to refinish your floors depends on the thickness of the top layer of wood, or the "wear layer." A high-quality plank with a substantial wear layer can be sanded and refinished multiple times, extending its life for generations.

When to Call a Professional

While you can handle most daily maintenance yourself, some situations are best left to the experts. If you notice deep scratches, water damage, or significant warping, it’s time to call a professional. A flooring expert has the tools and knowledge to make precise repairs without causing further issues. For a major job like a full refinishing, a pro will ensure a smooth, even result. Following professional standards, like those outlined by the National Wood Flooring Association, is key to proper installation and long-term care, so don’t hesitate to bring in an expert when you’re out of your depth.

How to Choose the Right Wide Plank Flooring

Picking the right flooring is a huge decision that sets the tone for your entire space. With wide plank flooring, you’re not just choosing a material; you’re investing in a statement piece that can make your home feel more open and luxurious. But with so many options out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The key is to break the process down into manageable steps.

Thinking about the quality of the planks, the overall value, the supplier’s reputation, and even the timing of your purchase will help you make a choice you’ll love for years to come. Let’s walk through what you need to consider to find the perfect wide plank floors for your project.

Spotting High-Quality Planks

The first thing you’ll notice about wide plank flooring is its visual appeal. With fewer seams, the floor has a clean, continuous look that can make any room feel larger. High-quality planks showcase this best. Look for wood with consistent color and grain that highlights its natural character without being riddled with large, open knots that could weaken the board. The milling is also critical—the edges should be sharp and uniform to ensure a tight, seamless fit during installation. Poorly milled planks can lead to frustrating gaps and an uneven surface, so it’s worth inspecting the product closely or ordering samples before committing.

Comparing Price vs. Value

It’s true that wide plank floors often come with a higher price tag. This is because the raw materials are harder to source—planks can only be cut from older, larger trees, which are less common. The manufacturing process is also more intensive. However, it’s important to think in terms of long-term value, not just upfront cost. A well-made, high-quality floor will last for decades, add significant value to your property, and withstand daily life much better than a cheaper alternative. Investing a bit more now can save you from the headaches and costs of repairs or early replacement down the road.

Understanding the Warranty

A solid warranty is a good sign that the manufacturer stands behind its product. Before you buy, take a close look at what the warranty covers. It should protect against manufacturing defects in both the structure of the plank and its finish. If you’re considering engineered hardwood, check the thickness of the top wood layer, or veneer. A thicker veneer allows you to sand and refinish the floors in the future, extending their life significantly. Also, read the fine print. Most warranties have specific requirements for installation and maintenance, and failing to follow them could void your coverage.

Finding a Reputable Supplier

Where you buy your flooring matters just as much as what you buy. A reputable supplier will be transparent about their products, provide detailed specifications, and offer excellent customer support. Look for a company with a wide selection of hardwood flooring and clear, high-quality photos on their website. Reading customer reviews can also give you insight into the quality of their materials and service. A great supplier acts as a partner, ready to answer your questions and guide you to the right choice for your home’s climate, your lifestyle, and your budget.

The Benefits of Buying in Bulk

If you’re flooring a large area or multiple rooms, it’s always best to buy all your material in one go. Ordering in bulk from the same batch ensures that the color, grain, and finish will be consistent across your entire floor. Mismatched planks from different production runs can be noticeable and disrupt the seamless look you’re going for. Plus, many suppliers offer trade programs or discounts for larger orders, which can lead to significant savings. Don’t forget to order about 10% extra to account for cuts, mistakes, and any planks you may need to discard.

How to Time Your Purchase

Timing is everything, especially when it comes to hardwood flooring. Your planks need time to acclimate to your home's environment before they can be installed. This means you should have the flooring delivered to your house at least 72 hours—or even up to a week—before installation day. During this time, the wood will adjust to your home’s typical temperature and humidity levels, which helps prevent future warping or gapping. Make sure your home’s climate control is running and that all "wet" work like drywall or painting is complete before the wood arrives. Storing it in a climate-controlled room is much better than leaving it in a garage or basement.

Related Articles

• Engineered Hardwood Flooring: The Wide Plank Guide
• Wide Plank Flooring: 7 Things You Need to Know
• A Buyer's Guide to Hardwood Flooring Planks
• 12 Inch Wide Plank Flooring: A Complete Buyer's Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Is wide plank flooring a good choice for kitchens? While you can absolutely use wide plank flooring in a kitchen, it requires a bit more mindfulness. Because kitchens are prone to spills and humidity changes, you’ll want to be diligent about wiping up any water immediately. Choosing an engineered wide plank can be a great option here, as its layered construction offers more stability against moisture. A durable, high-quality finish is also key to protecting the wood from daily wear and tear in such a high-traffic area.

What’s the real difference between solid and engineered wide plank flooring? Think of it this way: solid hardwood planks are milled from a single, solid piece of wood from top to bottom. They are incredibly durable and can be sanded and refinished many times over their long lifespan. Engineered hardwood, on the other hand, is constructed with a top layer of real hardwood bonded to a core of high-quality plywood. This structure makes engineered planks more stable and less reactive to changes in humidity, making them a better choice for installation over concrete or in basements.

How can I stop gaps from appearing between my floorboards during the winter? Those small gaps that sometimes show up in winter are a natural result of the wood contracting in dry air. The most effective way to prevent this is to maintain a stable environment in your home. Running a humidifier during the colder, drier months to keep your home's relative humidity between 35% and 55% will help keep the wood from shrinking. This simple step is the best defense against seasonal gapping.

Will my dog's nails ruin wide plank floors? Pets and hardwood can definitely coexist! The key is to choose the right wood and finish. Opt for a harder wood species like Oak or Hickory, as they are more resistant to dents and scratches than softer woods like Walnut or Cherry. A strong, durable finish will provide an essential layer of protection. Of course, keeping your dog's nails trimmed regularly is also one of the easiest and most effective ways to keep your beautiful floors looking their best.

Can I install wide plank flooring over a concrete subfloor? Yes, you can, but it requires the right product and preparation. You generally shouldn't install solid hardwood directly over concrete due to moisture concerns. Instead, an engineered wide plank is the ideal choice for this situation. Before installation, the concrete must be clean, flat, and properly sealed with a moisture barrier to protect the flooring from any dampness wicking up from the slab.