There’s no question that oak flooring is the most popular hardwood floor option in North America, by a wide margin.
One reason for this popularity is that oak flooring is readily available because both red oak and white oak are easily grown here. The ample supply and relatively local transportation (no shipping across sea, as with non-domestic woods) lower the cost of oak flooring to a level that’s attractive to many people.
But the most important reason is that oak flooring looks and performs great. It’s very versatile, fitting with many decors, but it always feels classy and classic. And it stands up well to wear and tear.
Red Oak vs. White Oak
When you’re deciding if oak is for you, keep in mind that while these two common types of oak flooring have similarities, they also have some differences. One may not fit your vision and needs, but the other might.
Appearance.
The color and grain of red oak and white oak vary according to where the trees are grown. Ralph’s Hardwoods gets most of our red and white oak from Wisconsin, Michigan, and Minnesota—states that produce gorgeous oaks.
The red oak has brown heartwood that’s tinged red, creating a visually interesting but not overpowering contrast to the wood’s creamy tones. Red oak has consistent, elegant grain patterns.
The white oak has a combination of grayish-brown heartwood, pale tones, and subtle grains that are not quite as pronounced as red oak. It’s a perfect wood for creating a clean, crisp look.
Durability.
Both types of oak flooring are good choices for longevity and maintaining their appearance over time. White oak is slightly harder than red oak, but both are harder than most other common flooring choices, such as birch, walnut, cherry, cedar, and pine.
Stain.
Both types of oak flooring accept stain very well. Depending on the darkness of the stain, the differences in appearance between the two types can become less obvious, but red oak usually maintains a red tint.
Cost.
The price of hardwood is constantly fluctuating. Because most red and white oak hardwood flooring is locally sourced, it is usually a great deal.
Flooring That Never Goes Out of Style
Whether you choose red or white, a great advantage of oak flooring is that it’s timeless. Because its look is subtle and understated yet so clearly beautiful, it stays in fashion.
That means that if you buy oak flooring, you don’t have to worry about it ever looking dated. And if you sell your home, you won’t have to worry about having a floor that turns off potential buyers. People are always going to love oak.
