Adding Wide Plank Floors

Wide plank floors can fit in almost any room, from the kitchen to the family room to the entire first floor. When deciding where to put this type of wood, consider your lifestyle and design tastes.

If you're looking for a very eye catching design, then start your wood floors in the foyer and carry them around to the kitchen, family room, and dining room. This large expanse of wide planks will be a true conversation piece as guests arrive.

If you want to create a focal point in the family room around a large stone fireplace, then add them in that room only. This also is a cost effective way to add this interesting floor material, which typically costs 20 to 30 percent more than traditional two to three inch wood.

Wood is a beautiful material, but it can require added maintenance, particularly in a house with pets and children. A dark wood floor will show dirt and scratches more readily, so a pine or birch floor is a good option in that scenario. Birch has light almond and reddish tones with interesting grain contrast. Pine has more yellow tones and typically has rustic knots in the wood.

Before buying wide plank floors, consider your design goals and the way you use your home. Then pick an area or two where this dramatic material can create a stunning design.

About the Author

Allison E. Beatty is an avid old house enthusiast who has been renovating houses and writing about them for more than 10 years. She contributes regularly to national newspaper, magazines and web sites. She lives in an 1888 Victorian era home.