Americans are in love with oak flooring. The dependable, versatile flooring material has been a standard in homes across the United States for many years. Not only is the wood good-looking, it is also strong, long-lasting, and often locally-grown. This article takes an in-depth look at the features of oak flooring and why it has captured the nation’s heart.
Looks
Oak flooring comes in two main varieties: white oak and red oak. Both types have tight, consistent grain patterns, though red oak’s is a little more visually striking. As far as color goes, oak features a wide range of beautiful tones. From dark reddish-brown to pale whites and grays, the warm color of oak matches a cornucopia of design schemes.
Durability
Oak is a species that really puts the “hard” in “hardwood flooring”. Depending on whether you are using red or white oak, the Janka hardness rating can range from 1,290 pounds to 1,360 pounds. Combine these high ratings with a very high density, and you have a flooring material that can stand up to a lot of wear and tear. Treat the wood with a high-quality sealant, stain or varnish, and you can expect many years out of your new floors.
Resistance to Buckling
Buckling, bending and warping are big problems facing home owners with hardwood floors. This occurs when wood floors expand and shrink due to fluctuations in temperature and humidity. The buckling is the worst when boards don’t expand or shrink in proportion to each other. Luckily, both red and white oak flooring experience expansion and shrinkage at a relatively even rate, meaning your floors won’t warp or bend as easily as other species. Just to be safe, try to keep the temperature and humidity in your home stable.
Versatility
Probably the main reason oak flooring is so popular in America is its versatility. Both red and white oak feature a multifaceted, subtle charm, making them aesthetically complementary to any room décor. And because oak is not as dramatic in appearance as other species, it doesn’t distract from furnishings or art.
Maintenance
Maintaining a beautiful hardwood floor is a breeze. The first step is applying a high-quality sealant or stain. Make sure what you’re using is waterproof and protects against harmful UV radiation, which can add years to the look of your floors. Second, remember to sweep and mop regularly. Sand, dust and dirt can wear off a floor’s sealant and expose the wood to harmful elements. Liquids can stain virtually any floor, so remember to mop or dry any spill as soon as you can. Oak flooring can also be refinished with relative ease, but make sure to get an expert’s help or opinion before starting such a big project.
As you can see, the combination of versatile looks, strength, durability, and ease of care has made oak flooring one of the most popular varieties of hardwood flooring materials in the country. If you are considering putting in new hardwood floors, you will definitely want to consider oak.
