Types of Wood Flooring​

Choosing the Right Hardwood Flooring: Red Oak, White Oak, Maple, Hickory, and Ash

Hardwood flooring is a timeless choice that adds beauty, durability, and value to any home or commercial space. At Unique Floor Supply, we understand that choosing the right wood species is an important decision. Here’s a detailed guide to help you make an informed choice.

1. Red Oak Flooring

Overview

• Janka Hardness Rating: 1,290 lbf
• Grain Pattern: Open and pronounced grain with moderate variation
• Color: Warm brown tones with reddish-pink undertones

Pros:

✅ Readily available and cost-effective

✅ Easy to sand, stain, and finish

✅ Durable yet forgiving, with a grain pattern that hides scratches

Cons:

❌ More prone to dents compared to harder woods

❌ Less resistant to moisture compared to White Oak

Best Uses: Ideal for residential spaces, living rooms, and hallways.

2. White Oak Flooring

Overview

• Janka Hardness Rating: 1,360 lbf
• Grain Pattern: Tighter, more uniform grain
• Color: Neutral light brown to grayish tones

Pros:

✅ More durable and wear-resistant than Red Oak

✅ Naturally resistant to moisture, making it great for kitchens

✅ Works well in modern and rustic settings

Cons:

❌ Slightly more expensive than Red Oak

❌ Harder to work with due to its density

Best Uses: High-traffic areas, kitchens, and contemporary interiors.

3. Maple Flooring

Overview

• Janka Hardness Rating: 1,450-1,500 lbf
• Grain Pattern: Subtle, fine grain with occasional curly or wavy figures
• Color: Light cream to pale tan

Pros:

✅ Extremely hard and resistant to dents

✅ Minimal grain variation for a clean, modern look

✅ Naturally light color brightens spaces

Cons:

❌ Difficult to stain evenly

❌ Surface scratches can be more noticeable due to its smooth finish

Best Uses: Contemporary homes, sports courts, and commercial spaces.

4. Hickory Flooring

Overview

• Janka Hardness Rating: 1,820 lbf
• Grain Pattern: Prominent, varied grain with natural knots
• Color: Wide range from creamy white to dark brown

Pros:

✅ One of the hardest and most durable wood options

✅ Distinctive rustic appearance with strong grain patterns

✅ Ideal for high-traffic and pet-friendly homes

Cons:

❌ Hard to cut and install due to its density

❌ Stains unevenly if not applied correctly

Best Uses: Farmhouse-style homes, rustic interiors, and high-traffic areas.

5. Ash Flooring

Overview

• Janka Hardness Rating: 1,320 lbf
• Grain Pattern: Straight, smooth grain with occasional swirls
• Color: Light tan to medium brown

Pros:

✅ Durable and resistant to wear

✅ Bright, airy aesthetic that enhances open spaces

✅ Excellent shock absorption, making it comfortable underfoot

Cons:

❌ Less moisture-resistant than White Oak

❌ Limited availability compared to Oak

Best Uses: Modern interiors, open spaces, and high-traffic homes.

Which Hardwood is Best for You?

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right hardwood flooring depends on your design preferences, budget, and lifestyle needs. Whether you're looking for a classic Oak floor, a contemporary Maple surface, or a tough and rustic Hickory floor, Unique Floor Supply has the right options for you.

📞 Have questions? Contact us at 718-738-8400 or visit us at www.uniquefloorsupply.com to explore our hardwood flooring collection!