What forms the basis of pricing for hardwood flooring? The grade, in many cases. Grades for unfinished hardwood flooring, however, are not based on any physical superiority for the wood. Rather, these grades, based on standards set by the National Wood Flooring Association, pertain to appearance. The more even, the higher the grade is. More character marks results a lower grade. Discount hardwood flooring – sold under “tavern,” “#3 common,” “character,” or “cabin” grade – has the most character marks. Because of this, discount hardwood flooring does not meet a manufacturer’s standards and is sold significantly below standard hardwood prices.
Finding discount hardwood flooring can be difficult. Most brick-and-mortar retail stores do not carry it. Distributors, however, will, but selections vary and depend on monthly lists from mills with which species are being sold at a discount.
Installing discount flooring gives your home the appearance of natural wood at an affordable price, and the character marks create a rustic appearance. Typically, discount hardwood has visible knots, mineral streaks, and more color variation. For some species, color variation simply indicates greater contrast between the heartwood and sapwood. For others, the patina of value-grade flooring has hints of greens and browns, creating an appearance differing from higher-grade hardwood. The prevalence of greens and browns sometimes gives discount hardwood the moniker “swamp wood.”
Poor milling, on the other hand, may also give hardwood a “discount” label. Wood that has been poorly milled may have voids, tree bark edges, missing tongues, splits, checks, or windshake. Many of these features pose installation problems: Boards may not fit together as the result of rounded edges or may give the floor an uneven surface.
Because purchasing discount flooring has potential to be a tossup, consider these three points before purchasing hardwood. First, find out why a certain shipment of hardwood is labeled as “discount.” Second, purchase at least 10 to 15 percent more hardwood. Third, remember that, even though the price is low, discount hardwood flooring is not covered by a manufacturer’s warranty.
The price of discount hardwood flooring is not all you will need to spend when installing a hardwood floor. As you price new flooring for your home, consider other factors, especially if a professional will be installing the hardwood. Nailing, gluing, or floating a floor costs an additional $2.50 to $3.50 per square foot; staining is another $4.50 per square foot; floor preparation is $60 per hour and includes any material removal. Also factor in the materials needed to hold down the floor, including nails, staples, or underlayment.
Should You Install Discount Hardwood Flooring?
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Tags: mineral streaks, Patina, uneven surface