Hardwood flooring brings timeless beauty and elegance to any space. But as many of our customers at Paulson’s Floor Coverings ask, “Does the width of the hardwood planks really make a difference?” As a company with over 100 years of experience serving Portland, OR, and Vancouver, WA, we know that plank width is more than just a design detail. It affects the look, feel, and even the performance of your hardwood floors. Let’s dive into why plank width matters and how you can choose the best option for your home.
A Brief Look at Hardwood Plank Widths
When it comes to hardwood flooring, plank widths vary widely, from narrow strips (less than 3 inches wide) to wide planks (up to 10 inches or more). At Paulson’s, we offer a range of options to suit different tastes and needs. So, what’s the difference? Here’s how each width can impact your flooring experience.
Narrow Planks: Classic Style with a Twist
Narrow planks, typically less than 3 inches in width, are a traditional choice for hardwood floors. Their slimmer profile provides a classic look that can work well in smaller or more traditional spaces.
- Benefits of Narrow Planks: They can make a room appear larger, creating the illusion of space. Narrow planks are also less prone to expansion and contraction, which can be a plus in regions with fluctuating humidity levels, like the Pacific Northwest.
- Best Suited For: Narrow planks are ideal for smaller spaces and homes with classic or traditional interiors.
Our Paulson’s showrooms in Portland and Vancouver showcase several hardwood options with narrow planks that bring sophistication and charm to compact spaces.
Wide Planks: Bold Elegance and Modern Appeal
Wide planks, usually over 5 inches in width, have gained popularity in recent years for their ability to add a sense of openness and luxury to a space.
- Benefits of Wide Planks: The wider profile offers a modern, upscale look that emphasizes the natural grain and texture of the wood. Wide planks reduce the number of visible seams, giving a more seamless, clean appearance.
- Considerations: Wider planks are more susceptible to expansion and contraction, especially in humid or dry climates. Portland and Vancouver homeowners should be mindful of indoor humidity control if they’re drawn to this option.
- Best Suited For: Wide planks work best in larger spaces or open floor plans and are a perfect match for contemporary or rustic designs.
At Paulson’s Floor Coverings, we offer a variety of stunning wide plank hardwoods that add character and warmth to larger rooms, creating an inviting atmosphere in every home.
Mixed-Width Planks: A Unique and Dynamic Choice
For those who want a truly distinctive look, mixed-width planks combine both narrow and wide planks in one installation.
- Benefits of Mixed-Width Planks: This option offers a unique visual interest and a custom feel that’s both timeless and eclectic. Mixed-width installations create movement across the floor, adding dimension to any space.
- Best Suited For: Mixed-width planks are highly versatile and work well in both modern and rustic interiors, making them a popular choice among Portland and Vancouver homeowners seeking a one-of-a-kind look.
Whether you’re in Portland or Vancouver, our Paulson’s showrooms carry beautiful mixed-width options that allow for a truly personalized flooring experience.
How Plank Width Affects Room Design and Feel
Beyond aesthetics, plank width can dramatically impact the perception of space in your home:
- Larger Rooms: Wide planks can give spacious areas a more grounded, balanced feel. They prevent a large room from feeling too “busy” and instead create a streamlined look.
- Smaller Rooms: Narrow planks make small rooms feel more expansive. If you’re designing for a cozy room or narrow hallway, narrow planks can visually open up the area.
- Mixed-Width for Versatility: Mixed-width floors bring a sense of natural flow to your design. They’re particularly effective in open-plan homes where you want each area to have its own character yet maintain a unified look.
At Paulson’s, we’ve helped countless customers select the right plank width to optimize the feel of their space. Our flooring experts are always ready to share tips on how to use plank width to your advantage.
Why Visit Paulson’s Floor Coverings?
With over 100 years of experience, Paulson’s Floor Coverings has built a reputation for quality and expertise in the Portland and Vancouver areas. Our extensive selection of hardwood floors includes a range of plank widths, finishes, and wood species. Whether you’re drawn to the charm of narrow planks, the elegance of wide planks, or the uniqueness of mixed-width planks, our flooring experts are here to guide you.
Stop by one of our showrooms to see how different plank widths look in real-life settings. We’re proud to offer personalized advice and quality flooring that reflects our century-long commitment to excellence.
Choose the Width that Suits Your Style and Space
Ultimately, plank width is a design choice that goes beyond aesthetics to affect the ambiance and functionality of your space. The right width depends on factors like room size, personal style, and lifestyle needs.
Visit Paulson’s Floor Coverings in Portland, OR, or Vancouver, WA, to explore our hardwood options and find the plank width that’s perfect for your home. Let us help you create a beautiful, timeless space with hardwood flooring that fits your vision.
