Width of floorboards

Are there any advantages to choosing wide rather than thin floorboards?

Asked by Jenny on 15th Dec 2022
Expert Trade Answers
"In small rooms, wide planks will create the illusion of a larger space. Visually, the wood will draw the eye across each plank, and is less busy to give a feeling of spaciousness. Lighter woods also work best in small rooms, as it makes the room seem more open"
Answered on 5th Jan 2024 - Member since Jul 2022 - report
"Hi. There's no advantage, it's only what you like. Nicholas"
Answered on 16th Dec 2022 - Member since Dec 2022 - report
"There are no advantages in the width of floorboards, it’s just a personal choice although wider planks are more expensive."
Answered on 21st Apr 2025 - Member since Apr 2025 - report
"Yes, there are several advantages to choosing wide floorboards over thinner ones, though the choice often depends on personal preference, style, and the specific space. Here are some benefits of wide floorboards:
1. Aesthetic Appeal:
Visual Impact: Wide floorboards can create a more open and spacious feel in a room, as the fewer seams make the floor look less cluttered.
Modern Look: Wider boards tend to have a more contemporary and sophisticated appearance, appealing to modern design sensibilities.
2. Fewer Joints:
Seamless Appearance: Fewer boards mean fewer joints, which can create a cleaner and more uniform look across the floor surface.
Reduced Maintenance: With fewer seams, there's less opportunity for dirt and dust to accumulate, making cleaning easier.
3. Enhanced Stability:
Less Movement: Wider boards can often be more stable and less prone to warping than narrower boards, especially in areas with variable humidity and temperature.
4. Improved Durability:
Thicker Planks: Wide boards are often thicker, which can lead to greater durability and longevity, providing good durability in high-traffic areas.
Less Susceptible to Damage: Less overall surface area reduces the likelihood of damage from spills or impacts.
5. Easier Installation:
Faster Installation: Fewer planks can mean quicker installation, which can result in reduced labor costs if hiring professionals.
6. Increased Market Appeal:
Desirability: Wide floorboards can enhance the value of your property, as they are often viewed as a premium choice in flooring.
7. Acoustic Benefits:
Better Sound Absorption: Wide floorboards can help with sound insulation, providing a more pleasant acoustic environment in closed spaces.
Considerations:
While wide floorboards have many advantages, it's important to consider the following:
Space Suitability: In smaller or more confined spaces, narrow boards may make the area feel larger.
Cost: Wide floorboards can sometimes be more expensive than standard sizes.
Expansion and Contraction: They may need specific installation techniques to accommodate natural wood movement due to humidity changes.
Ultimately, the choice between wide and narrow floorboards will depend on your design preferences, the specific characteristics of your space, and practical considerations."
Answered on 9th Apr 2025 - Member since Mar 2025 - report
"Hi
The only benefits there would be less boards to put down
Therefore less time & less fixings
But not necessarily less cost.
If the boards are going to be seen as in a finished floor sanded and varnished then a standard size board would look more pleasing on the eye
4 or 5 inch board"
Answered on 15th Dec 2022 - Member since May 2017 - report
"A standard board should be no less than 4-5 inch anything smaller can break"
Answered on 3rd Sep 2023 - Member since Sep 2023 - report
"Yes of course but also not to thin because can damage very quickly
My opinion it is buy thick floorboard with normal size"
Answered on 15th Dec 2022 - Member since Dec 2022 - report
"No advantage but wide boards makes the room look small and thin boards makes the room looks larger"
Answered on 21st Aug 2024 - Member since Jul 2024 - report
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