When it comes to wide plank wood flooring, we talk a lot about width and the different factors you must consider when choosing between different widths and choosing between fixed-width or variable-width floors.
However, one topic that we must also talk about includes different lengths of wide plank flooring. Wide plank floors are available in two main options when it comes to length: random-length flooring and fixed-length flooring.
Most of our wide plank floors are available in the following options when it comes to choosing the lengths of your floors: 18″ – 10′ Random Lengths, 2′ – 10′ Random Lengths, 3′ – 10′ Random Lengths, and 4′ – 10′ Random Lengths.
Long fixed lengths should be used in large rooms because they have the ability to retain the size of the room, whereas random lengths will typically make a room look slightly cozier or more cramped.
Random length vs. fixed length flooring: The factors to consider
When it comes to choosing between random length and fixed length flooring to install in an upcoming project, there are several factors to consider––namely, the differences in appearance, cost, joist locations, and whether or not you are installing the floors over joists.
Appearance: Long fixed lengths should be used in large rooms because they have the ability to retain the size of the room, whereas random lengths will typically make a room look slightly cozier or more cramped.
Cost: fixed-length flooring is typically more expensive than random length flooring because it means that the mill/manufacturer must cut and shape each piece to be exactly the same size.
Joists: If you’re installing your flooring over joists that are spread far apart, fixed-length flooring is usually a safer bet because if you use random-length flooring and receive a large amount of small planks, they may not be able to reach from joist to joist.
Consulting with a hardwood flooring professional is always a good idea to figure out what the best length or width of flooring for your specific project or situation. If you have any questions about which length to choose for your wide plank flooring project, click here to contact us or call 877-697-5265 to speak with a wide plank expert.