How Wide-Plank Flooring Can Make Your Room Appear Bigger

Wood floor planks have traditionally been on the narrower side because hardwood has the tendency to expand and contract depending on different factors such as humidity, heat and moisture. Usually, this means that the narrower the plank, the less prone to warping it is.

However, modern advances in flooring technology now allow for wider planks that don’t expand as much with humidity or heat, allowing for this beautiful new trend to emerge.

Wide-plank flooring has become an increasingly popular choice among homeowners and interior designers for its ability to transform the look and feel of a room. 

This flooring type is not only known for adding a touch of elegance and class to a room but it can also make small spaces appear larger.  

What is Wide-Plank Flooring?

Wide-plank flooring refers to floorboards that are significantly wider than the standard planks commonly used in flooring. 

While standard planks typically measure between 2 to 4 inches in width, wide planks usually range from 5 to 12 inches or more. The increased width of these planks allows for fewer seams and joints, creating a cleaner, more expansive appearance in any room.

This makes wide-plank flooring an excellent choice if you think a room in your home feels small and crowded, and you want to make it appear larger by giving it a more grandiose look.

Another added benefit of wider planks is that the installation process is a lot quicker, as you need to use less pieces to cover the same area.

Moreover, wide-plank flooring makes the natural beauty and grain of the wood pop, which adds to its rustic look. This is best shown in households where the natural aesthetic of wood is a central design element.

Technical Specifications

• Width: 5 to 12 inches (on average)
• Length: Often longer than standard planks, ranging from 6 to 12 feet 
• Thickness: Similar to standard planks, typically around 3/4 inch

Why Wide-Plank Flooring Makes a Room Appear Bigger

They Have Fewer Seams and Joints

Wide planks mean fewer seams, which translates to a less cluttered and more continuous appearance. This seamless look can trick the eye into perceiving the space larger than it actually is. 

In addition to being more visually appealing, fewer seams also means less maintenance, as there are fewer gaps where dirt and debris can accumulate. This can be particularly beneficial in  homes with pets and children where you’d have to clean up more often. 

The continuity provided by wide planks also enhances the flow of the room, making it feel more open and inviting, which is even more noticeable in smaller rooms where every inch of space counts. 

If you have limited room, just the feeling of having extra space can make for a more welcoming environment. In essence, you won’t feel as cooped up, which can have a positive effect on your mental wellbeing. 

It’s important to note that you shouldn’t go with planks larger than 6 to 8 inches in small rooms because you will achieve the exact opposite effect. Going with larger planks than this can overwhelm the room and make it look even smaller. 

Wide Planks are Typically Longer in Length 

Wide planks are often longer than standard planks which reduces the number of end joints.

The extended lines create an illusion of more floor space, elongating the room visually, which is quite effective in hallways or narrow spaces.

Moreover, the extended lengths can highlight the natural variations in the wood.

Wider Planks Highlight Natural Grain Patterns

The broader surface area of wide planks highlights the wood’s natural grain and texture more prominently. 

The little knots and imperfections in wood add a unique touch which gives these planks a premium appearance. As an added note, lighter colors and stains will work wonders in making the look appear more spacious. 

All things considered, the natural grain patterns of wide planks help to create a visually interesting and dynamic space.

Conclusion

To wrap things up, wide plank wood flooring looks great, won’t bloat your project’s price tag, and can do amazing things for your home’s design. 

It’s a fantastic solution for both small and large rooms, and its unique appearance will make the floor the main attraction of your household.  

Whichever wood species you choose to go with, light or dark hues, or anything in between – wide plank wood flooring is fantastic.