If you’ve narrowed down flooring choices to hardwood, you’ve probably learned that there are still more decisions to make, most importantly, the type of wood. Red oak is a great hardwood flooring option for numerous reasons.
Hardness
You’ve probably heard of the Janka hardness scale for hardwood, but what you may not realize is that red oak is the standard used to measure the hardness of other types of wood. Red oak is considered the median on the hardness scale, with a rating of 1290. This makes it a durable option that resists scratches and dents well.
Grain
Red oak has a slightly coarse grain that makes it able to hide scratches better than other types of wood. This strong grain also makes it easy to sand when needed, so any scratches sustained can be removed with periodic refinishing. The grain of red oak also takes stain extremely well.
Color
As the name implies, red oak has warm, cozy tones that range from cream to reddish to brown. The natural color makes it an easy fit for more color schemes and style choices in homes, so it’s a universal fit for most homes. It’s traditional, with the ability to be customized due to the ease of staining.
Practical Considerations
Since red oak is the median of the hardness scale, it’s easy to work with for installation. It’s easier to saw, machine, cut, nail, and sand than many other types of wood. Additionally, since red oak is abundant it’s one of the more affordable options for hardwood. Red oak is also a stable hardwood, so it’s less susceptible to expansion and contraction from humidity.
Design Benefits
Since red oak has such a traditional look, it’s beneficial as a design choice. Whether you prefer a traditional or a more modern design approach, red oak is a perfect choice because it easily matches whatever design aesthetic you choose.
At Flooring Pros we have multiple hardwood flooring options to choose from, including different types of red oak. Contact us to learn more about our options and to schedule your installation.