Hardwood Floor Pricing Guide

When it comes to hardwood flooring, several key factors drive pricing up and down. While aesthetics and durability are always top of mind, understanding the impact of plank width, thickness, veneer, grade, and board length can help make sense of pricing differences and aid in choosing the right product for your needs.

1. Plank Width

One of the first factors influencing cost is plank width. Narrower planks (under 5 inches) are typically less expensive, while wider planks (over 7 inches) come with a higher price tag. Planks in the 5-6.5-inch range often provide the best balance between appearance and cost, making them a popular choice. Wider planks, however, have a unique look, adding a sense of spaciousness and a high-end feel to a room, which accounts for the extra cost.

2. Plank Thickness

The thickness of hardwood flooring planks usually ranges from 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch. Interestingly, while thicker planks are more expensive, the thickness won’t significantly impact how firm the flooring feels. That quality largely depends on the stability and levelness of the subfloor. Proper installation on a strong, level subfloor ensures a solid feel regardless of plank thickness. Thicker planks, however, can contribute to longevity, especially for engineered hardwood, as they allow for more sanding and refinishing over time.

3. Veneer Thickness

For engineered hardwood flooring, veneer thickness—the solid wood layer on top of the plywood base—is another cost driver. Veneers typically range from 1mm to 6mm in thickness. Thicker veneers not only give the floor a more natural hardwood feel and appearance but also allow for refinishing, extending the floor’s lifespan. While a thicker veneer can elevate costs, it also provides a more authentic hardwood experience, making it a worthy investment for long-term durability.

4. Plank Grade

Hardwood boards are graded based on their appearance, with grades from A to D. “A” grade boards are clean and free from knots, making them perfect for modern, minimalist aesthetics. Meanwhile, “D” grade boards, full of character and knots, are often preferred in rustic or country settings. Generally, cleaner grades (A and B) are more costly, as the selection process to find these boards is more stringent. On the other hand, character-rich boards (C and D) are more affordable and ideal for achieving a natural, rustic look.

5. Board Length

The length of the boards in each box also plays a role in pricing. Hardwood flooring boxes typically contain a mix of long and short boards, ranging from 48 to 84 inches in length. Longer boards reduce the number of seams in an installation, giving a floor a more cohesive, visually appealing look. However, they’re more challenging to source and handle, adding to the cost. Higher percentages of long boards in a box elevate the price, as they simplify the installation process and offer a premium, streamlined appearance.

Understanding these factors can help you select the ideal hardwood flooring for your space and budget. From width to grade and length, each element contributes to both the look and price of your floor, allowing for choices that balance style and affordability.