[Image source: Superior Flooring]
Despite there being a variety of different flooring options, customers continue to purchase Oak floors for their homes. While some may view this as a traditional flooring choice, there are actually many reasons why homeowners elect to go with Oak. When making such an important purchase for their home, they want to be sure that they are getting a product that will last, and Oak floors fit that bill.
In this blog post, we will discuss some of the reasons why Oak floors continue to be a popular choice among homeowners.
How Did Oak Start Being Used?
Oak has been a popular choice for construction and furniture-making since medieval times, thanks to its strength, durability, and resistance to rot. Oak timber was used in the construction of castles and churches, as well as in the manufacture of wagons, carts, and barrels.
In the 18th century, Oak became increasingly popular as a material for flooring and paneling in upper-class homes. The wide boards were easy to lay down and gave rooms a sense of solidity and grandeur. Today, Oak is still highly prized for its beauty and longevity, making it a popular choice for both old and new homes alike.
Oak is Very Durable
When considering what type of flooring to install in your home, it is important to take into account the level of durability you need. For families with children or pets, Oak floors are a great option. Oak is a very hard wood, and therefore resistant to scratches and wear and tear.
In fact, White Oak scores a 1360 rating on the Janka scale, which is used to measure the hardness of wood. This means that it can withstand more wear and tear than other types of wood floors. If you are looking for a durable floor that will stand up to the rigors of daily life, Oak is an excellent choice.
Learn more about the Janka scale here.
The Grain Patterns Vary
[Image source: Superior Flooring]
When shopping for Oak flooring, you’ll first need to decide which type of Oak you prefer. Red Oak and White Oak are the most common types of Oak used in flooring. Each has its own unique grain pattern.
The grain of Red Oak tends to be a bit busier, with more character than that of White Oak. Red Oak hides scratches from large pets or rambunctious kids better than other types of wood. Rift-sawn planks, cut perpendicular to the rings of the tree, have a more consistent, uniform appearance.
Plain-sawn boards, cut parallel to the circumference of the log, have a busier appearance with a cathedral-style loopier grain. Plain-sawn boards are also cut more efficiently. Once you’ve decided on your preferred type of Oak, you can start shopping for your dream floors!
Oak Is Environmentally Friendly
Among the many different types of flooring on the market, Oak floors are one of the most environmentally friendly and sustainable options. Oak is a hardwood that is native to North America, and it has been used as a construction material for centuries.
In recent years, there has been an increased focus on using sustainable materials for flooring, and Oak is a perfect example of this. Oak floors are durable and long-lasting, meaning that they will not need to be replaced as often as other types of flooring.
Furthermore, Oak is not an endangered species, so there is no need to worry about the impact of harvesting on the environment. When you choose Oak floors, you can be confident that you are making a sustainable choice that will help to protect the environment.
Oak is Resistant to Rot & Decay
[Image source: Superior Flooring]
Oak’s natural resistance to rot and decay makes it an ideal choice for rooms that are prone to moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Oak contains a high level of tannin, which acts as a natural barrier against moisture and rot. As long as the wood is properly dried before use, it should remain dimensionally stable for many years. Polishing can also help to further protect the wood against the elements.
Due to this extra resistance, Oak flooring can last for decades with proper care, making it a wise investment for your home.
[Image source: Superior Flooring]
Final Thoughts
As you can see, there are many reasons why homeowners continue to purchase Oak floors. Oak is a durable, eco-friendly, and affordable option that can last for many years with proper care. If you are looking for a new flooring option, be sure to consider Oak!
We want to help you select the best flooring options for your unique needs and style. Reach out today for help! MacDonald Hardwoods serves the entire state of Colorado.