Grades Of Hickory Hardwood Flooring

Essential Aspects of Grades Of Hickory Hardwood Flooring

Hickory is a popular hardwood flooring choice due to its durability, strength, and beautiful grain patterns. However, not all hickory flooring is created equal. There are different grades of hickory hardwood flooring, each with its own unique characteristics.

Grading System

The grading system for hickory hardwood flooring is based on the appearance of the wood. The higher the grade, the fewer imperfections the wood has. The most common grades of hickory hardwood flooring are:

Clear: The highest grade of hickory hardwood flooring, clear grade has no visible imperfections.
Select: Select grade hickory hardwood flooring has very few visible imperfections, such as small knots or mineral streaks.
No. 1 Common: No. 1 Common grade hickory hardwood flooring has some visible imperfections, such as knots, mineral streaks, and sapwood.
No. 2 Common: No. 2 Common grade hickory hardwood flooring has more visible imperfections than No. 1 Common grade, including knots, mineral streaks, sapwood, and other defects.

Factors Affecting Grade

Several factors affect the grade of hickory hardwood flooring, including:

Knots: Knots are natural imperfections in the wood that can occur when branches grow from the tree. The size and number of knots in a piece of wood affect its grade.
Mineral Streaks: Mineral streaks are caused by minerals that are deposited in the wood as it grows. The color and size of mineral streaks can affect the grade of the wood.
Sapwood: Sapwood is the light-colored wood that is found near the bark of the tree. Sapwood is generally considered to be less desirable than heartwood, the darker wood that is found at the center of the tree.
Other Defects: Other defects that can affect the grade of hickory hardwood flooring include cracks, splits, and holes.

Choosing the Right Grade

The best grade of hickory hardwood flooring will depending on the desired look and budget. For a formal setting that requires a flawless appearance, clear grade hickory hardwood flooring may be the best option. For a more rustic setting, a lower grade of hickory hardwood flooring, such as No. 2 Common, may be more appropriate.

Durability and Maintenance

Hickory is a very durable hardwood flooring that can withstand heavy traffic. However, all hardwoods require some degree of maintenance to keep them looking their best. Regular sweeping, mopping, and vacuuming will help to remove dirt and debris. Periodically, the floor should be cleaned with a hardwood flooring cleaner and protected with a fresh coat of polyurethane.

Conclusion

Hickory hardwood flooring is a beautiful and durable flooring option that can add warmth and elegance to any home. By understanding the different grades of hickory hardwood flooring, consumers can make an informed decision about the best grade for their needs.