Looking for “wide plank hardwood near me”? This guide simplifies choosing and installing beautiful, substantial wide plank floors. Discover key considerations like wood type, width, budget, and finding trusted local suppliers to achieve your dream look with confidence.
Hey there, DIYers! Jack Shaffer here. Have you been dreaming of a stunning, classic hardwood floor for your home? Maybe you’ve seen those gorgeous wide plank floors in magazines or online and thought, “Wow, I want that!” But then the overwhelm sets in, right? Where do you even start looking? What does “wide plank” really mean? And how do you find the best options right in your own neighborhood?
Don’t worry, I’ve got your back. Finding “wide plank hardwood near me” might seem like a big task, but it’s totally doable. It’s all about knowing what to look for and breaking it down into simple steps. I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding the different wood types to spotting a reliable local dealer.
Ready to lay the foundation for a beautiful new floor? Let’s dive in and uncover the secrets to selecting the perfect wide plank hardwood that’s just a stone’s throw away!
Table of Contents
Why Everyone Loves Wide Plank Hardwood
There’s a reason wide plank hardwood floors have taken the home design world by storm. They bring a sense of warmth, character, and timeless elegance that’s hard to beat. Unlike traditional narrower planks, wide planks (typically 5 inches or more in width) create a more dramatic visual impact. They can make a room feel larger and more open, while their fewer seams offer a cleaner, more streamlined look.
Beyond aesthetics, wide plank flooring often evokes a sense of rustic charm or sophisticated grandeur, depending on the wood species and finish. Whether you’re going for a cozy farmhouse vibe or a sleek, modern aesthetic, wide planks can be incredibly versatile. They feel substantial underfoot and can truly transform the feel of your entire home.
Understanding “Wide Plank”
So, what exactly qualifies as “wide plank”? Generally, standard hardwood planks are around 2.25 to 3.25 inches wide. Anything wider than that is considered wide plank. Common widths you’ll find include:
- 5 inches
- 6 inches
- 7 inches
- 8 inches
- And even wider!
The effect of these wider widths is significant. More wood surface per plank means fewer seams overall. This can contribute to a smoother, more expansive look, especially in larger rooms. It also tends to feel more grounded and luxurious. When you’re searching for “wide plank hardwood near me,” keep these dimensions in mind to ensure you’re getting the look you desire.
Choosing Your Wood Species: The Heart of Your Floor
The type of wood you choose for your wide plank flooring is probably the most important decision you’ll make. It affects the look, durability, cost, and how it wears over time. Here’s a look at some popular choices you’ll likely find when searching for “wide plank hardwood near me”:
1. Oak (Red and White)
Oak is a perennial favorite for a reason. It’s incredibly durable, readily available, and comes in two main varieties:
- Red Oak: Features pinkish undertones and a prominent grain pattern. It’s slightly softer than white oak but still very durable for most residential uses.
- White Oak: Known for its grayish-brown tone, straighter grain, and excellent resistance to rot and water. It’s a bit harder than red oak, making it a fantastic choice for high-traffic areas.
Oak floors are versatile and can be stained to achieve a wide range of colors, from light, natural tones to deep, rich hues.
2. Maple
Maple is a very hard, dense wood that offers a clean, subtle grain pattern. It typically has a creamy white to light brown color. Maple is fantastic for creating a bright, modern look, and its hardness makes it highly resistant to dents and scratches.
Keep in mind that maple can be less receptive to staining than oak, often resulting in a more translucent color application. It takes finishes beautifully, though.
3. Walnut
For a touch of luxury and a rich, dark aesthetic, walnut is a superb choice. It boasts beautiful natural color variations, from deep chocolate browns to purplish hues, and a flowing grain pattern. Walnut is softer than oak or maple, so it might be better suited for areas with less foot traffic, or if you don’t mind a bit more character developing over time.
4. Hickory
Hickory is one of the hardest domestic woods available. It’s known for its dramatic color variation and strong, sometimes wild, grain patterns. This makes it ideal for a rustic or farmhouse style. Its hardness means it holds up exceptionally well to wear and tear, making it a practical choice for busy households.
5. Exotic Woods (e.g., Brazilian Cherry, Teak)
While less common for a typical “wide plank hardwood near me” search for domestic options, exotic woods offer unique colors and extreme hardness. Brazilian Cherry, for instance, starts as a reddish-brown and darkens beautifully with age. Teak is naturally oily and water-resistant. These options often come with a higher price tag but offer distinctive beauty and durability.
Solid vs. Engineered Hardwood: What’s the Difference?
When you’re shopping for wide plank flooring, you’ll encounter two main types: solid hardwood and engineered hardwood. Both are real wood, but their construction differs, affecting their suitability for various applications and installation methods.
Solid Hardwood
- What it is: Each plank is milled from a single piece of solid wood.
- Pros: Can be sanded and refinished multiple times over its lifespan, effectively lasting for generations. Offers a classic, natural appeal.
- Cons: More sensitive to changes in humidity and temperature. Cannot be installed below grade (in basements) or directly over concrete slabs. Installation typically involves nailing or stapling to a subfloor.
- Best for: Main living areas, bedrooms, and dining rooms on elevated levels with stable climate control.
Engineered Hardwood
- What it is: Constructed from multiple layers of wood or composite materials, topped with a veneer of real hardwood (the visible layer).
- Pros: More stable than solid hardwood, making it better suited for areas with fluctuating humidity and temperature. Can be installed in basements and over concrete slabs. Offers versatile installation options, including gluing, stapling, or even floating.
- Cons: Can only be sanded and refinished a limited number of times, depending on the thickness of the top veneer.
- Best for: Kitchens, basements, bathrooms (with proper sealing), and homes with inconsistent humidity.
The good news is that wide plank options are available in both solid and engineered constructions, so you can choose the best fit for your home’s specific conditions and your installation preferences.
Key Considerations When Buying Wide Plank Hardwood
Beyond wood species and construction, there are several other factors to weigh. Thinking about these now will save you headaches down the road when you’re searching for “wide plank hardwood near me.”
1. Finish and Durability
The finish on your hardwood floor plays a huge role in its appearance and how well it resists scratches and wear. You’ll typically see:
- Surface finishes (Polyurethane, Urethane): These are applied to the top of the wood. Most modern floors use aluminum oxide enhanced urethane finishes, which are incredibly durable. Look for a finish with a good warranty.
- Penetrating finishes (Oil-based): These soak into the wood and offer a more natural, matte look but require more maintenance and are less resistant to spills and scratches.
For wide plank floors, especially in high-traffic areas, opt for a durable, factory-applied surface finish. The sheen level (matte, satin, semi-gloss) is also a personal preference. Matte finishes tend to hide dust and minor scratches better.
2. Color and Style
The color and style of your wide plank floor should complement your home’s existing decor. Consider:
- Natural Tones: Light tans, beiges, and creamy whites create an airy, open feel.
- Medium Tones: Warm browns and honey colors add cozy warmth.
- Dark Tones: Deep browns, espresso, and charcoal create a dramatic, sophisticated, and modern look.
- Gray Tones: Offer a contemporary, rustic, or weathered appearance.
The grain pattern of the wood also contributes to the style. Oak’s prominent grain offers a classic look, while maple’s subtle grain is more minimalist. Distressed or hand-scraped finishes can add character and hide wear, fitting well with rustic or farmhouse styles.
3. Cost and Budget
Wide plank hardwood flooring generally costs more than standard plank widths. This is due to the increased cost of milling wider boards and the fact that wider boards require more carefully selected, larger cuts of lumber. Expect prices to vary significantly based on:
- Wood species (exotics are usually more expensive)
- Solid vs. engineered construction
- Brand and manufacturer
- Finish and quality
- Plank width and length
When you’re researching “wide plank hardwood near me,” be sure to get quotes that include not just the material but also any underlayment, transitions, and potential installation costs if you’re not doing it yourself.
A rough estimate for wide plank hardwood can range from $5 to $15+ per square foot for materials alone. Installation adds another $4 to $12+ per square foot.
4. Installation Method
How your floor is installed also matters. The main methods are:
- Nail-down/Staple-down: This is the most secure method for solid hardwood, directly attaching planks to a wooden subfloor.
- Glue-down: Often used for engineered hardwood, especially over concrete. Provides a solid feel and good sound dampening.
- Floating: Engineered planks with click-lock systems can be assembled on top of an underlayment without being attached to the subfloor. This is often the easiest DIY option.
Consider your subfloor type (plywood, concrete) and your comfort level with DIY installation when choosing.
Finding “Wide Plank Hardwood Near Me”: Your Local Search Strategy
Now for the crucial part: finding reputable sources for your wide plank hardwood locally. Here’s how to approach your search:
1. Start with Local Flooring Stores
Your first stop should be dedicated flooring retailers in your area. These stores often have a wide selection of brands and styles, including plenty of wide plank options. They also offer the advantage of seeing and touching the products in person.
- What to look for: Stores with knowledgeable staff who can explain the differences between wood types, finishes, and construction. Look for larger showrooms that display a good variety of wide plank options.
- Ask about: Their premium or higher-end hardwood lines, as these are more likely to feature extensive wide plank selections.
2. Check with Lumber Yards and Hardwood Specialists
Some lumber yards or specialized hardwood dealers might carry unfinished wide plank flooring or can even mill custom orders. This can be a great option if you’re looking for something unique or plan to stain and finish the floor yourself for a truly custom look.
- Benefits: Potential for direct sourcing, custom milling, and often competitive pricing if you’re buying unfinished material.
- Consider: Ensure they have experience with flooring-grade lumber and understand the stability requirements for wide planks.
3. Explore Local Building Supply Centers
Larger home improvement stores (like Home Depot, Lowe’s in the US) will have flooring departments. While their selection might be more limited compared to specialized stores, they often carry popular brands and can be a convenient option. You can browse online first to see what they offer locally.
- Tip: Pay close attention to the available plank widths and the quality of the wear layer, especially on engineered products.
4. Read Online Reviews and Ask for Recommendations
Once you have a few potential sources, do a quick online search for reviews. Look for comments specifically about their hardwood flooring selection, customer service, and any issues with product quality or installation. Word-of-mouth is powerful, so ask friends, family, or neighbors who have recently had hardwood floors installed for their recommendations.
5. Get Samples and Compare Quotes
Never buy flooring without seeing a decent-sized sample in your home’s lighting. Take samples home from different stores to see how they look next to your furniture, wall colors, and natural light. Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, get detailed quotes from your top 2-3 sources. Ensure each quote includes the same items for accurate comparison.
Installation Considerations for Wide Planks
Installing wide plank hardwood, especially if you’re a DIYer, comes with a few specific considerations:
- Acclimation: All hardwood needs time to adjust to your home’s interior climate before installation. This is even more critical for wide planks, which have a larger surface area that can expand or contract. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely, typically 48-72 hours in the room where it will be installed.
- Subfloor Preparation: A clean, level, and dry subfloor is essential for any flooring installation. Unevenness can lead to squeaks, gaps, or a compromised finish, particularly noticeable on wide planks.
- Expansion Gaps: Wood expands and contracts. You must leave an expansion gap around the perimeter of the room (against walls, cabinets, etc.) to allow for this movement. This gap is usually covered by baseboards or quarter-round molding. For wide planks, it’s particularly important to get this right. A good rule of thumb for expansion is 1/8 inch for every 4 inches of plank width, but always consult the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Nailing Pattern (for nail-down): When nailing down wide planks, it’s crucial to hit the joists consistently. A common recommendation is to place nails approximately every 10-12 inches, sometimes stagger-nailing. Using a flooring nailer designed for your plank thickness will make this much easier and more secure.
- Moisture Testing: If you’re installing over concrete or in potentially damp areas like basements, perform a moisture test. For concrete, a calcium chloride test or in-situ probe test is recommended.
For detailed installation instructions, consult resources like the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) guidelines. They offer invaluable technical information for professionals and dedicated DIYers. You can find their extensive guides at nwfa.org.
Maintenance and Care for Your Wide Plank Floors
Once your beautiful “wide plank hardwood near me” floors are installed, keeping them looking great is simple with proper care. Regular maintenance will protect your investment and keep your floors pristine for years.
Daily and Weekly Care
- Sweep or Vacuum Regularly: Use a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum cleaner with a hard floor attachment (turn off the beater bar) to remove dust, dirt, and grit. These particles can act like sandpaper and scratch the finish over time.
- Wipe Up Spills Immediately: Use a slightly damp (not wet!) cloth or a microfiber mop. Avoid using excessive water, as it can seep into the seams and damage the wood.
Periodic Deep Cleaning
- Use Manufacturer-Recommended Cleaners: Always use a hardwood floor cleaner specifically recommended by your floor’s manufacturer. Avoid all-purpose cleaners, vinegar solutions, or ammonia-based products, as they can dull or damage the finish.
- Minimal Water: When using a cleaner, apply it to your mop or cloth, not directly to the floor. Wring out your mop thoroughly so it’s only slightly damp.
Preventing Damage
- Use Furniture Pads: Felt pads on the legs of chairs, tables, and sofas will prevent scratches when furniture is moved.
- Use Area Rugs: Place rugs in high-traffic areas like entryways, hallways, and in front of sinks or the sofa to protect the floor from wear and tear.
- Avoid High Heels and Cleats: These can easily dent and scratch hardwood floors.
- Control Humidity: Maintain a consistent indoor humidity level (usually between 35-55%). Use a humidifier in dry winters and a dehumidifier in damp summers. This is one of the most crucial steps for long-term floor health. The EPA offers great tips on maintaining healthy indoor air quality, which includes humidity control.
- Sunlight: Prolonged direct sunlight can cause some wood species to fade or darken. Use curtains or blinds to protect your