Comparing Ash vs. Oak vs. Hickory Floors

Choosing hardwood flooring for your home can be a grueling task. With so many different hardwoods to consider, you might be stumped as to the differences between some of the wood species.

Among the most common hardwoods people decide on are ash, hickory, and oak. Each of these is unique and a good option in its own right, but there are differences which might impact your decision on which one to get.

Ash is one of the most versatile and sought-after hardwoods for good reason. It comes in light colors and a beautiful smooth grain pattern, which gives it a more uniform appearance compared to oak and hickory.

In this article we’ll answer all of your questions about ash wood flooring. We’ll talk about its durability, price, pros and cons, and we’ll directly compare it to oak and hickory.

Ash Wood

When we talk about ash flooring, we’re usually speaking specifically about white ash. White ash trees are native to North America, and are commonly found in the east of the United States and southeast of Canada.

Ash wood is commonly used in millwork, flooring, tools, and sporting equipment (like baseball bats) all around the world. 

Ash trees can grow up to 80 feet tall, with a straight trunk and a rounded canopy, which makes them ideal for timber production. 

Harvesting typically involves selective cutting to ensure sustainable forest management, followed by milling the logs into lumber. 

Ash is a unique wood species primarily known for its strength, elasticity, and light color – features we’ll touch upon in more detail below.

One vital thing that should be mentioned in regards to ash wood is an invasive beetle called the Emerald Ash Borer which is decimating ash populations, effectively making it harder and harder to buy old-growth ash trees – which in turn makes finding large planks more difficult for the average consumer. 

Durability

The durability of any hardwood comes down to its resistance to scratches, dents and wear.  

It is typically assessed through the Janka hardness test, which measures the amount of force required to embed a steel ball halfway into a plank of wood.

White ash’s Janka rating is 1320, which makes it highly durable and wear-resistant. This means that you can install it in high-traffic areas such as your living room without having to worry too much about daily wear and tear. 

Another thing that should be noted is white ash’s elasticity as a key factor in its durability.

Elasticity refers to the wood’s ability to return to its original shape after being deformed or stressed. In practical terms, this means it can absorb impacts and shocks without cracking or splintering.

Comparison with Hickory and Oak

Hickory

Hickory’s janka hardness rating is 1820, which makes it one of the hardest domestic woods available. 

Its exceptional durability can be a double-edged sword though, as it can be quite challenging to work with in terms of installation due to its density. 

Oak

Oak, specifically white oak, has a Janka rating of 1360, while red oak is slightly softer at 1290. 

The lower Janka rating doesn’t mean much in terms of real world use, as you can still install white oak in high-traffic areas of your home.

It’s worth mentioning that white oak is more moisture-resistant than ash and many other types of wood. This is primarily due to its closed grain structure. Effectively, this means it can be used in kitchens and bathrooms. 

Pros and Cons

Ash Flooring Pros

• Strength and Resilience: With a 1360 Janka rating, this flooring is suitable even for the most high-traffic areas.

• Elasticity: Its flexibility helps in absorbing impacts without damage.

• Workability: Easier to cut, sand, and finish compared to harder woods.

• Aesthetic Appeal: Attractive grain patterns and light color make it versatile in design.

Ash Flooring Cons

• Susceptibility to Pests: Ash is prone to attacks by pests like the emerald ash borer.

• Availability: Due to pest threats, ash wood availability might be limited in some areas.

• Cost Fluctuation: Prices can vary based on supply and demand affected by pest infestations.

Comparison with Hickory and Oak

Hickory

• Pros: Extremely durable, distinctive grain, good for high-traffic areas.

• Cons: Difficult to work with, can be costly, and its bold grain may not suit all tastes.

Oak

• Pros: Durable, readily available, versatile in design, and more affordable.

• Cons: Less hard than hickory, can show wear and tear more easily in high-traffic areas.

Aesthetics

If you were to browse the spectrum of wood floor colors, from near-white maple to the deep black of ebony flooring – you’d find ash to be in the lighter, more neutral tones. 

Ash wood features a light color palette ranging from creamy whites to light browns. Its straight grain and occasional knots add a subtle yet elegant touch to any interior. 

Thanks to its lighter colors and subtle wood grain, ash is easy to stain and can take on many different looks. Plus, it holds a stain super well, so you can customize it to fit any home! 

This makes it a great flooring option for a bunch of different rooms in your home since it can complement different decors and designs.

Cost

The cost of ash flooring can vary, but it generally falls in the mid-range category. Prices can fluctuate based on factors like wood quality, board width, and finish. 

On average, ash flooring costs between $5 to $8 per square foot, which makes it less expensive than the other two hardwoods we’re comparing it to.

Hickory: Typically more expensive due to its hardness and density, hickory flooring can range from $6 to $12 per square foot.

Oak: Oak flooring is often more affordable, with prices ranging from $3 to $7 per square foot for red oak and $5 to $10 per square foot for white oak. Its widespread availability helps keep costs lower.

Conclusion

Choosing between ash, hickory, and oak flooring ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. 

Ash offers a balance of strength, aesthetic appeal, and cost-effectiveness, making it a versatile choice for many homeowners. 

Hickory stands out for its exceptional durability and bold appearance, ideal for high-traffic areas and rustic designs. 

Oak remains a timeless favorite due to its durability, availability, and classic look.

Ultimately, it comes down to your preferences and what you’re looking for in a floor, as the old saying goes – to each his own.