Have you ever walked into a room and noticed the flooring right away? If so, it likely had something to do with the color, grain, or overall appearance of the wood. No two boards of hardwood are exactly alike, and that’s what makes hardwood floors so unique and beautiful. But have you ever wondered why there is so much variation? Here’s a look at some of the factors that contribute to variations in hardwood floors.
Tree Species
One of the main reasons for variations in hardwood floors is the tree species from which the lumber was sourced. For example, oak and maple are two very popular choices for hardwood floors. Oak is known for its durability, while maple is known for its hardness. However, these qualities can also vary depending on the specific type of oak or maple tree that was used. White oak tends to be more durable than red oak, for instance. Similarly, hard Maple is harder than soft Maple. So, if you’re looking for a certain quality in your hardwood floor, be sure to ask about the specific tree species that was used.
Cutting Method
Another factor that contributes to variations in hardwood floors is the cutting method that was used to harvest the lumber. There are three main cutting methods – plain sawing, quarter sawing, and rift sawing – and each one produces boards with a different grain pattern. Plain sawing cuts boards along the length of the log, resulting in boards with a straight grain pattern. Quarter sawing cuts blocks at a 90-degree angle to the length of the log, resulting in boards with a more intricate grain pattern. Rift sawing is similar to quarter sawing but produces narrower boards with an even more intricate grain pattern. So, if you have your heart set on a certain grain pattern for your hardwood floor, make sure to ask about the cutting method that was used.
There are many factors that contribute to variations in hardwood floors – from tree species to cutting method – but that’s what makes hardwood floors so special and unique. No two floors are exactly alike! When choosing hardwood floors for your home or business, be sure to ask about the specific characteristics of the flooring so that you can find something that perfectly suits your needs and preferences.