Things to Know Before Installing Wide Plank Flooring

Natural furnishings are the buzzword in home improvement projects. They are naturally appealing and long-lasting and just seem to do the trick. When we talk of natural furnishings, wood is one flooring choice worth mentioning. It’s common for decorating floors, and planks are a favorite choice for many. Are you seeking to install wide plank flooring in your home? There are various things that you should know. 

1. The color should complement your style.

If you fancy traditional styles, don’t commit the mistake of installing wide planks in your home. Only flooring dyed in dark hues can blend in well with a conventional setting. Your choice of flooring should also be highly textured to achieve that luxurious look. The idea here is; smooth surfaces and lighter tints are best for contemporary settings. 

2. Humidity stability is a significant prerequisite for plank wood flooring.

Installing plank floors in humidity prone areas can be challenging. Although the base may stay firm, the top part starts drying up once the moisture content drops. It’s then critical to check for moisture fluctuations in your location before installing hardwood plank flooring. If the changes persist, opt for another type of flooring altogether.

3. Know how to distinguish cheap from quality planks

Typically, wooden planks measure 10 inches in width. However, genuine planks from top dealers have a 20-inch width. About the source, hardwood planks are usually oak, hickory, and other hardwoods. Oak planks are generally cut from the trunk. For hickory, they are extracted from various parts and feature a length of 6 ft. 

4. Wide is best!

The size of hardwood planks varies depending on the size and functionality of the room. Nowadays, there are stringent quality control measures in the production of floorboards. All come in prefabricated sizes for easy installation. Nevertheless, the wider the planks, the more the elegance. Wider planks create that stunning look and style. The patterns are more elaborate and create that rich texture in your home.

How can I avoid cracks in my plank flooring?

Hardwood d flooring is vulnerable to high humidity levels, and plank floors are no exception. Ignoring the humidity levels in your home can lead to cracking and other irreparable damages to your flooring. The best humidity levels for hardwood flooring are about 50%. If this falls below 30%, your flooring will dry up and begin cracking. 

Avoid this by;

-Installing dehumidifying units like an air conditioner in your home. It’s effective in controlling the humidity levels and will help in extracting moisture from the air.

-Proper cleaning is also vital. Wet mopping can lead to excess moisture on your hardwood plank flooring. Dust the floor mop using a damp cloth; this won’t damage your flooring. Also, read the manufacturer’s guidelines on cleaning and care.

Final thoughts

Wood plants evoke a level of sophistication and class in any home. They come in varied types and sizes, and you can always get the best for your home. Acquire your planks from legitimate manufacturers and hire professionals to install the flooring. Moreover, follow the cleaning and care tips and enjoy a stunning look in your home.