If you’re in the market for a new floor, you may be considering hickory flooring. This type of flooring is becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason! Hickory is a beautiful wood that can add a touch of elegance to any room. But before you make a purchase, there are some things you should know about hickory flooring. In this blog post, we will discuss the pros and cons of hickory flooring, as well as tips for installation and care.
Where Does Hickory Come From?
Hickory is a type of hardwood that is native to North America. It is one of the hardest woods available, which makes it an ideal material for flooring. Hickory trees can grow up to 100 feet tall and are typically found in the eastern United States. [1]
The Various Types of Hickory Wood
There are four types of hickory wood, which include:
- Shagbark Hickory: This type of hickory has a light-colored bark that peels off in long, thin strips. The wood is hard and strong, making it ideal for flooring.
- Shellbark Hickory: This type of hickory has a dark-colored bark that is thick and rough. The wood is also tough, making it perfect for flooring.
- Pignut Hickory: This type of hickory has a light-colored bark with small bumps. The wood is not as hard as the other types of hickory, but it is still strong enough for flooring.
- Bitternut Hickory: This type of hickory has a dark-colored bark with large bumps. While not as tough as other types of hickory, this wood is still a suitable material for flooring.
Hickory wood is an excellent choice for flooring because it is durable and looks great. There are many different types of hickory, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. When choosing hickory flooring, make sure to select the right type of wood for your project. [2]
Is Hickory Wood Good for Flooring?
Hickory is an extremely hard and durable wood, making it ideal for flooring. It is also very beautiful, with a unique grain pattern that can add character and interest to any space. However, hickory can be difficult to work with and install, so it is important to consult with a professional before undertaking a hickory flooring project.
The Advantages of Hickory Wood Flooring
Lightens Rooms
Researchers have found that hickory floors can brighten a room by up to 50%.Hickory is an excellent flooring material for those who are looking to lighten up their home. The wood is naturally light in color, and it can help to reflect light back into the room. This can make small rooms appear larger and brighter.
Is Durable
Hickory floors are also very durable. The wood is hard and dense, making it resistant to scratches, dents, and wear. When properly cared for, hickory floors can last for decades.
Adds Value to Your Home
Because of its beauty and durability, hickory flooring can add value to your home. If you ever decide to sell your home, hickory floors will be a selling point that can help you get a higher price.
It Takes Stains and Finishes Wonderfully
Hickory is a very versatile wood. It takes stains and finishes well, so you can customize the look of your hickory floors to match your home’s décor.
Hickory Flooring Is More Difficult To Maintain Than Oak Flooring
Requires Very Little Maintenance
Hickory floors are easy to care for. Sweeping and vacuuming regularly will help to keep your floors looking their best. You can also use a damp mop when needed. Be sure to avoid using too much water, as this can damage the wood.
Hardwood is Less Costly than Exotic Woods
Hickory floors tend to be more budget-friendly than other types of hardwood floors. If you want the look of hardwood floors without the high price tag, hickory is a great choice.
The Disadvantages of Hickory Flooring
More Expensive than Oak
Flooring Hickory flooring is more expensive than oak flooring. The price of hickory flooring ranges from $12 to $14 per square foot, while the price of oak flooring ranges from $11 to $13 per square foot.
Many Do-It-Yourself Projects are Challenging
If you want to accomplish any DIY projects, hickory flooring might be a challenge. The wood is hard and dense, which makes it difficult to cut and nail.
Hickory is Moderately Eco-Friendly
Hickory is considered to be a moderately eco-friendly flooring material. The tree takes approximately 50 years to mature, which is much longer than most other trees.
Hickory Flooring May Not Be Suitable for All Homes
While hickory flooring is beautiful and durable, it may not be suitable for all homes. If you have small children or pets, hickory flooring may not be the best option for you because it can dent and scratch easily.
Grain Pattern Can Be Unappealing to Some
The grain pattern of hickory flooring can be unappealing to some people. The wood has a very distinctive grain pattern that can be quite bold.
Hickory Planks are Often Wider Than Others
Hickory floorboards are notoriously wider than other sorts of hardwood floors. This can make it difficult to find furniture that fits properly in a room with hickory floors.
Where to Buy Hickory Hardwood Flooring
If you’re looking for hickory hardwood flooring, your best bet is to find a local retailer that specializes in this type of flooring. You can also check online retailers, but make sure to read the reviews before making a purchase.
Hickory hardwood flooring can be pricey, but it’s worth the investment. This type of flooring will last for many years, and it will add value to your home. When you’re ready to install hickory hardwood flooring, be sure to hire a professional installer.
What Are the Most Popular Hickory Flooring Brands?
When it comes to hickory flooring, there are a few brands that stand out above the rest. Shaw Flooring is one of the leading manufacturers of hickory floors, and their products are known for their durability and beauty. [4]
Armstrong Flooring is another trusted name in the hickory flooring industry, and their products are known for being both beautiful and long-lasting.
How to Maintain Hickory Flooring?
Hickory floors are one of the most beautiful and unique flooring options on the market. But like all types of flooring, they require some care and maintenance to keep them looking their best.
Here are a few tips on how to maintain your hickory floors:
- Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and debris.
- Mop with a damp cloth or mop specifically designed for hardwood floors. Avoid using excessive water, as this can damage the wood.
- Place mats at entryways to help reduce dirt and debris tracked in from outside.
- Protect your floors from furniture by placing felt pads under chairs and tables.
Following these simple tips will help you keep your hickory floors looking beautiful for years to come.
How to Install Hickory Flooring?
Hickory flooring is a great way to add beauty and value to your home. If you are considering installing hickory floors, there are a few things you should know. Here is a quick guide to help you get started.
First, hickory floors are very durable. They can last for decades with proper care. Hickory is also a very hardwood, so it resists scratches and dents better than softer woods like pine or maple.
Next, prepare the subfloor by cleaning it and making sure it is level. Once the subfloor is ready, lay down a layer of underlayment to help reduce noise and provide extra cushioning.
Now you are ready to install your hickory flooring. Start by installing the first row of boards along one wall. Make sure the boards are flush with the wall and spaced evenly apart. Use a nail gun or screw gun to attach each board to the subfloor. Work your way across the room until all the boards in that row are installed.
Then, start on the next row and continue until all the hickory flooring is installed. Once all the boards are in place, trim any excess material around the edges of the room.
Finally, apply a finish to the flooring. This will help protect it from scratches and everyday wear and tear. Choose a finish that is compatible with hickory floors and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application.
With these tips, you can install hickory flooring like a pro! Hickory floors are a great investment that will last for many years to come. [5]
FAQ
Is hickory a good flooring?
Hickory is an excellent flooring material that is known for its durability and strength. It is also a popular choice for people who are looking for a rustic or country feel in their home.
What are the pros and cons of hickory flooring?
There are several advantages to choosing hickory flooring for your home. Hickory is a very strong and durable wood, so it can withstand a lot of wear and tear. It also has a beautiful natural grain that adds character to any room. However, hickory floors can be susceptible to scratches and dents, so they may not be the best choice for homes with pets or small children.
How much does hickory flooring cost?
Hickory flooring is typically more expensive than other types of wood floors, but it is worth the investment. Hickory floors can last for decades with proper care, so you will not have to replace them as often as you would with other materials.
What are the best ways to care for hickory floors?
Hickory floors should be vacuumed or swept regularly to remove dirt and debris. When cleaning hickory floors, use a mild soap and water solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners that could damage the wood. Once a week, damp mop your hickory floors with a pH-neutral cleaner to remove any build-up.
Are hickory floors easy to install?
Hickory floors are not difficult to install, but it is important to hire a professional if you are not experienced in this type of work. Hickory floors should be installed over a subfloor that is level and free of imperfections. If the subfloor is not level, the hickory flooring will not lay flat and may eventually warp or cup.
Can hickory floors be refinished?
Yes, hickory floors can be refinished several times during their lifetime. However, it is important to note that each time the floor is sanded, some of the wood will be removed. This means that the hickory floor will become thinner over time and may eventually need to be replaced. If you are considering hickory flooring for your home, there are a few things you should know. Hickory is an excellent choice for flooring because it is durable, strong, and has a beautiful natural grain. However, hickory floors can be susceptible to scratches and dents, so they may not be the best choice for homes with pets or small children.
Does hickory flooring yellow over time?
Hickory flooring may yellow over time, depending on the type of finish that is used. However, this is not always the case and many people find that their hickory floors retain their original color for many years. If you are concerned about your hickory floors yellowing, you can ask your flooring professional to use a clear finish or stain that will help protect the wood.
What are some common problems with hickory floors?
One of the most common problems with hickory floors is denting. Hickory is a very hard wood, but it can be susceptible to dents from heavy furniture or dropped objects. Another problem that can occur with hickory floors is scratching. This can be caused by dirt, sand, or other debris that is ground into the surface of the floor. If your hickory floors become scratched, they can be refinished to remove the damage.
Are hickory floors a good choice for people with allergies?
Hickory floors are a good choice for people with allergies because they do not harbor dust and other allergens like carpet does. Hickory floors are easy to keep clean and free of allergens, making them a healthy choice for your home.
Does hickory darken over time?
Hickory does darken over time, but the change is usually gradual and not dramatic. Depending on the varnish or sealant used, hickory floors can take on a reddish or amber hue as they age.
Hickory’s natural color can also vary considerably from one board to the next, so it’s important to select boards that will give you the overall look you desire.
Is hickory flooring waterproof?
Hickory is not waterproof, but it is one of the more water-resistant options on the market. If you’re looking for a truly waterproof flooring option, tile or vinyl would be a better choice. However, if you’re looking for a wood floor that can withstand spills and minor flooding, hickory may be a good option for you.
What is the best way to clean hickory floors?
The best way to clean hickory floors depends on the finish. If your hickory floors have a varnish or sealant, you can simply sweep them with a soft broom and mop them with a mild cleanser. If your hickory floors are unfinished, however, you’ll need to take special care not to damage the wood. The best way to clean unfinished hickory floors is with a damp mop and a gentle cleanser.
You should also avoid using harsh chemicals or scrubbing the floors too vigorously, as this can damage the wood.
Useful Video: Hickory Hardwood Flooring | Everything you need to know
Conclusion
Hickory flooring is a great option for anyone looking for a durable and stylish flooring option. With so many different colors and styles to choose from, hickory floors can easily be customized to match any home décor. If you’re looking for a long-lasting floor that will stand up to heavy traffic and everyday wear and tear, hickory is the perfect choice. Hickory floors are also easy to clean and maintain, making them ideal for busy families. Whether you’re looking for a new floor for your home or office, hickory should definitely be at the top of your list!
If you want to learn more about hickory floors or get some tips on installation and maintenance, check out our other blog posts.
References
- https://study.com/academy/lesson/hickory-wood-characteristics-uses.html
- https://forest2home.com/blogs/news/species-highlight-hickory-wood
- http://www.hardwooddistributors.org/postings/species-highlight-hickory
- https://shawfloors.com/flooring/hardwood/hickory
- https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/install-a-solid-hardwood-floor