When it comes to flooring options, plank flooring has become one of the most popular choices among homeowners and designers. Known for its durability, variety of styles, and ease of installation, plank flooring is suitable for a wide range of interior design preferences. Whether you’re renovating your home or building from scratch, finding quality plank flooring is essential to ensure longevity, aesthetic appeal, and value for money.
In this blog, we’ll explain the different types of plank flooring, key factors to consider when selecting them, and the best places to find high-quality options.
What Is Plank Flooring?
Plank flooring refers to any type of flooring that comes in long, rectangular pieces, often designed to mimic the look of natural wood. This type of flooring is available in various materials, including solid hardwood, engineered wood, luxury vinyl planks (LVP), and laminate. Each type of plank flooring has unique characteristics, making it important to select the one that best suits your specific needs and design goals.
Types of Plank Flooring
Solid Hardwood Planks
- Made from 100% natural wood, solid hardwood is prized for its timeless beauty and durability. It can be sanded and refinished multiple times, making it a long-lasting choice. Common wood species for solid hardwood planks include oak, maple, walnut, and hickory.
Engineered Wood Planks
- Engineered wood is made from a thin layer of natural wood on top of plywood or high-density fiberboard (HDF). It mimics the look of solid wood but is more affordable and resistant to moisture and temperature changes. It’s a great option for areas like basements where solid hardwood might not be suitable.
Luxury Vinyl Planks (LVP)
- Luxury vinyl planks are a budget-friendly alternative to natural wood. They’re made from synthetic materials that can replicate the look and texture of wood, stone, or tile. LVP is highly durable, water-resistant, and easy to install, making it ideal for high-traffic areas or homes with pets and kids.
Laminate Planks
- Laminate plank flooring consists of a high-resolution image layer that mimics wood or stone, covered by a wear-resistant top layer. It’s affordable, easy to install, and low maintenance, but it doesn’t offer the same level of durability or moisture resistance as LVP or engineered wood.
Key Considerations When Choosing Plank Flooring
When searching for quality plank flooring, it’s important to consider more than just aesthetics. The right flooring will not only enhance your home’s visual appeal but also stand up to daily wear and tear. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
Material
- The material you choose should reflect your lifestyle and the room’s purpose. For example, solid hardwood is great for living rooms and bedrooms, while luxury vinyl or engineered wood is better for kitchens and basements, where moisture resistance is needed.
Durability
- If your household has high foot traffic, children, or pets, you’ll want a plank flooring option that can handle the daily grind. LVP and engineered wood are known for their durability, while solid hardwood can be refinished to maintain its appearance.
Maintenance
- Some plank flooring types require more maintenance than others. Hardwood requires regular care and can be sensitive to moisture, while LVP and laminate are more low-maintenance options. Choose the flooring that fits your desired level of upkeep.
Installation Method
- Installation methods can vary depending on the type of plank flooring. Some flooring options, like LVP and laminate, feature click-and-lock systems, making them perfect for DIY installations. Solid hardwood, however, often requires professional installation due to its nailing or glue-down methods.
Price
- Flooring prices can range significantly depending on the material and brand. Solid hardwood is typically the most expensive, while laminate and LVP are more budget-friendly. It’s important to balance cost with quality to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.
Top Places to Find Quality Plank Flooring
Now that you know what to look for in plank flooring, the next step is finding a reputable retailer or supplier. Here’s a breakdown of the best places to find high-quality plank flooring, whether you prefer shopping online or in person.
Specialty Flooring Stores
Specialty flooring stores offer a wide range of premium flooring options, including plank flooring made from various materials. These stores typically employ knowledgeable staff who can guide you through the selection process, ensuring you find the right type of plank flooring for your needs. They often carry exclusive brands that you may not find in big-box stores.
- Why Choose Specialty Stores?
- Expertise in flooring products
- Access to high-end brands
- Customizable options for specific designs
- Recommended Stores:
- Floor & Decor
- Lumber Liquidators
- The Floor Store
Big-Box Home Improvement Stores
Big-box retailers like Home Depot and Lowe’s are convenient for finding affordable plank flooring options. These stores carry a wide selection of flooring types, from solid hardwood to LVP, and usually offer competitive pricing. Many of these retailers also provide in-house installation services, making it a one-stop shop for your flooring project.
- Why Choose Big-Box Stores?
- Wide range of budget-friendly options
- Convenient locations and online shopping
- Frequent sales and promotions
- Recommended Stores:
- Home Depot
- Lowe’s
- Menards
Online Retailers
In recent years, online shopping for flooring has become more popular, with many reputable companies offering a vast selection of high-quality plank flooring that can be shipped directly to your home. Online retailers often provide detailed product descriptions, customer reviews, and free samples, allowing you to make an informed decision before purchasing.
- Why Choose Online Retailers?
- Access to a larger selection of brands and styles
- Convenient home delivery
- Competitive pricing and frequent sales
- Recommended Stores:
- Wayfair: Offers a wide variety of plank flooring, including LVP, engineered wood, and laminate, at affordable prices.
- BuildDirect: Known for its direct-to-consumer model, BuildDirect offers high-quality flooring with lower markups.
- FlooringInc: Specializes in both residential and commercial flooring, offering a range of plank flooring materials.
Wholesale Distributors
Wholesale flooring distributors often cater to contractors, but many are open to the public as well. These distributors offer bulk pricing on quality plank flooring, making them an excellent choice if you’re renovating a large area or looking to buy flooring in bulk. The downside is that wholesale distributors may not offer the same level of customer service or product displays as specialty or big-box stores.
- Why Choose Wholesale Distributors?
- Lower prices for bulk orders
- Access to a large inventory
- Suitable for large-scale renovations
- Recommended Distributors:
- ProSource Wholesale
- Dalton Wholesale Floors
- Trinity Hardwood Distributors
Eco-Friendly Flooring Retailers
If sustainability is a priority for you, look for eco-friendly retailers that specialize in sustainably sourced plank flooring. These companies often focus on using reclaimed wood, bamboo, or other environmentally friendly materials that minimize harm to forests and the environment.
- Why Choose Eco-Friendly Retailers?
- Support environmentally responsible practices
- Access to sustainable materials
- Unique and natural designs
- Recommended Stores:
- Green Building Supply: Focuses on eco-friendly building materials, including sustainable plank flooring options.
- Cali Bamboo: Offers eco-friendly LVP, bamboo, and engineered hardwood flooring.
Tips for Finding the Best Deals on Plank Flooring
Finding high-quality plank flooring at an affordable price can take some time and research, but it’s worth the effort. Here are a few tips to help you score the best deals:
Shop During Sales
- Retailers often have major sales during holidays or at the end of each season. Keep an eye out for promotions, and you could save a significant amount on your flooring.
Ask About Remnants or Overstock
- Many flooring stores offer discounts on remnants or overstocked items. While selection may be limited, it’s a great way to get high-quality materials at a reduced price.
Request Samples
- Before committing to a large purchase, order samples to ensure the color, texture, and quality match your expectations. Many online retailers offer free or low-cost samples.
Consider DIY Installation
- If you’re handy, consider installing the plank flooring yourself to save on labor costs. Many types of plank flooring, especially LVP and laminate, are designed for easy DIY installation.
Conclusion
Plank flooring is a versatile and stylish option that can enhance the aesthetic appeal and functionality of any room in your home. Whether you’re looking for the luxurious feel of solid hardwood or the practicality of luxury vinyl planks, it’s important to choose quality materials from a trusted retailer. By considering your specific needs, comparing options, and shopping smart, you’ll be able to find the perfect plank flooring for your home at a price that fits your budget. Happy flooring hunting!
