Choosing the Right Plank Width for Your Hardwood Flooring Project
When it comes to choosing hardwood flooring, one of the most important design decisions homeowners face is the width of the planks. Whether you’re remodeling an older home or starting fresh with new construction in Portland ME, the debate between wide plank and narrow plank hardwood floors continues to be a hot topic. Each option has its strengths, drawbacks, and ideal use cases.
As a trusted name in Portland ME hardwood floor installation, D&T Hardwood Floors understands how critical it is to find the perfect balance of style, functionality, and long-term value. Let’s break down the pros and cons of both wide and narrow planks to help you make the most informed choice for your home.
What’s the Difference Between Wide and Narrow Planks?
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Wide plank hardwood typically refers to boards that are 5 inches or wider.
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Narrow plank hardwood includes boards that are usually less than 3 inches wide.
While it may seem like a small detail, the width of your flooring can significantly influence the look, feel, and even maintenance of your space.
Pros of Wide Plank Hardwood
1. A Bold, Luxurious Appearance
Wide planks have a way of transforming a room. Their larger surface area showcases the natural beauty, grain, and texture of the wood, offering a high-performance and visually stunning finish. For open-concept homes or larger rooms in Portland ME, wide planks create a cohesive, uninterrupted feel.
2. Fewer Seams and a Cleaner Look
Because each plank covers more space, there are fewer seams and joints, which can make a room look cleaner and less busy. This user-friendly aesthetic appeals to homeowners seeking a modern, minimalist, or rustic design.
3. Faster Installation
With fewer planks to lay down, the installation process can often be completed more quickly. This makes wide plank hardwood a scalable solution for larger flooring projects.
Cons of Wide Plank Hardwood
1. Higher Cost
Wide planks generally use more wood per board, which often results in a higher price tag. However, if you’re looking for an affordable yet top-rated investment that adds long-term value, many homeowners still consider wide plank worth the cost.
2. More Susceptible to Expansion and Contraction
In climates with humidity changes, like Maine’s seasonal shifts, wide planks can expand and contract more noticeably than narrow planks. That’s why it’s important to work with a well-experienced hardwood installer, like D&T Hardwood Floors, who understands local conditions and can take steps to minimize issues.
Pros of Narrow Plank Hardwood
1. Classic and Timeless Appeal
Narrow planks offer a more traditional aesthetic that fits well in historic homes or rooms with classic interior design. Many Portland ME homeowners with vintage or colonial-style homes choose narrow planks for this reason.
2. Better Stability in Changing Conditions
Narrow planks tend to be more stable with less expansion and contraction over time, especially in areas with fluctuating humidity. This makes them a reliable choice for homes without climate control or in rooms like kitchens and basements.
3. More Design Flexibility
With narrow planks, you can achieve more intricate floor patterns such as herringbone or chevron. If you’re going for an innovative or custom look, narrow planks are a great option.
Cons of Narrow Plank Hardwood
1. Longer Installation Time
Since narrow planks are smaller, it takes more time to install them across a room. For large areas, this can extend your project timeline and slightly increase labor costs.
2. Can Make Rooms Feel Smaller
Because there are more lines and seams, narrow planks can make a space feel a bit busier or even smaller—especially if you choose a darker stain. In compact Portland ME homes, this is something to consider if you’re aiming for a more open feel.
Which One Is Right for You?
Here are some questions to ask yourself before making your decision:
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What’s the size of your room?
Wide planks look great in large, open spaces, while narrow planks work better in tighter layouts or older homes. -
What’s your home’s architectural style?
Modern and rustic homes pair well with wide planks. Traditional or colonial homes might benefit from the charm of narrow boards. -
How much are you willing to invest?
Wide planks often come with a higher price tag but offer a bold, modern feel. Narrow planks are generally more cost-effective and stable. -
What kind of performance are you expecting?
Both options can be proven and long-lasting when installed correctly, but your lifestyle, pets, and moisture levels can influence performance over time.
Trust Portland ME’s Flooring Experts
At D&T Hardwood Floors, we specialize in helping homeowners choose and install the ideal flooring for their space. With our well-experienced team, results-driven methods, and commitment to trusted craftsmanship, we ensure your floors are built to last—whether you choose wide or narrow planks.
We understand Maine’s climate, your design goals, and how to deliver industry-leading quality with every project. Whether you’re leaning toward wide plank hardwood for that open, luxurious look or prefer the timeless style of narrow boards, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process.