Typically, solid hardwood flooring is between 5/16 and ¾ inches thick. Those are pretty standard thicknesses that serve most needs. Engineered hardwood can come in different thicknesses but generally, it's about the same offerings as solid hardwood.
The “standard” thickness of a hardwood floor is between ½ and ¾ inches. However, it can be up to 1 inch thick. Thicker planks are very uncommon in the United States. The reason for this is so that homeowners can install it on top of an existing floor.
1/2-inch engineered hardwood is an excellent choice for areas with high foot traffic and where durability is a primary concern. It's also suitable for homeowners who prioritize enhanced sound insulation and desire a luxurious appearance for their flooring.
Standard residential thickness between (1/4 inch / 6.5mm) and (3/8 inch / 9.5mm) works great in most homes, while the thickest vinyl plank flooring at (5/8 inch / 15mm) provides maximum protection and sound reduction.
In wood flooring you generally get what you pay for, don't buy anything super cheap, 3/8'' is fine but 7/16'' are usually better, beyond that just follow care and maintenance instructions, look into investing in a humidifier If you're in a dryer climate or it will check and splinter alot.
Standard boards today are generally four to five inches. But wide boards from seven to even 24 inches have become stand fare. It's interesting to note that engineered hardwood flooring often uses wider planks in its construction.
Durability: Thick wood flooring, typically 18mm or more in thickness, is more durable and long-lasting. It can withstand heavy foot traffic, resist wear and tear, and can be sanded and refinished multiple times over its lifespan.
A thicker board will absorb sound better than a thinner board, so footsteps will be quieter. For those who really want to ensure quietness, a thicker board will also reduce the echo within the room. Thicker laminate flooring will feel more like hardwood underneath your feet.
3/4 inch (19mm):
This is the most popular thickness for solid hardwood, providing excellent durability, stability, and longevity.
The 20-22 mil thickness can actually withstand commercial environments. Choose flooring with a middle or higher wear layer if it will be in a high-traffic area of your home. A thinner thickness will be fine if the room in issue is unlikely to have substantial foot traffic. 12 mil works just fine in residential homes.
2000 Square Feet
A 2000 square foot installation typically costs between $12,000 and $24,000, with an average of around $18,000. The total expense can vary based on the quality of the engineered hardwood and the complexity of the installation.
Lacquered and oil finishes stand as indicators of high-quality engineered wood flooring. A lacquered finish provides a robust, protective layer that is both durable and low-maintenance. An oil finish penetrates the wood, enriching its natural colour and highlighting its grain.
Thicker floors can help reduce noise levels, provide additional insulation, and increase the overall strength of the building. Additionally, thicker floors can help reduce the risk of damage from heavy machinery, such as forklifts, and can help reduce the risk of structural damage from vibrations.
The best hardwood flooring depends on your needs and preferences. If you're looking for durability, Hickory, Hard Maple, and White Oak are top choices. Hickory is known for its scratch resistance and is one of the hardest domestic woods. Hard Maple is also very durable and has a fine, even grain.
Wide is Where It's At
But even that won't do if you want the best looking floor. If you want an authentic rustic look, or an upscale modern feel, even wider planks will elevate the overall value and aesthetic of your room.
Solid wood flooring comes in a variety of thicknesses: typically 1/2″, 5/8″ and 3/4″. There is very little difference in cost between 1/2″ thick and 3/4″ thick because you start with the same raw material when you make the flooring.
Opt for 2-4mm thin vinyl in lower-traffic areas like bedrooms for affordability and easy maintenance. Vinyl thicknesses of 4-6mm are more often used in heavy traffic areas of the home, like kitchens, living rooms, and entryways.
These tiles are like Legos for grown-ups, but instead of building castles, you're constructing the perfect platform for your gains. They're versatile and come in varying thicknesses but in the realm of "how thick should home gym flooring be," go for 3/8 to 1/2 inch for serious workouts.
A 1/2-inch (12mm) to 5/8-inch (15mm) thickness range is commonly used to ensure proper stability and prevent flexing.
If you are looking for a vinyl plank flooring option that is suitable for residential properties, a 6 mil wear layer is ideal.
Stick with thin widths for a classic wood floor: If you're a traditionalist, planks between 2 ¼ inches and 3 inches are most common in homes and give you that classic hardwood floor appearance. Go wide if you love character: Wider floorboards of 5 to 12 inches reveal a wood's character, including grain and knots.
Prime grade or AB-grade wood flooring is the highest quality of hardwood flooring that you can find.
So, when looking for the most durable hardwood floors, you should primarily look at wood from species like Brazilian Cherry, Hickory, Brazilian Walnut, Hard Maple, White Oak, Bamboo, Santos Mahogany, Red Oak, Australian Cypress, and Tigerwood.
The term “wear layer” simply refers to how thick the top wooden board is in a plank of hardwood, not the strength of the finish. Hardwood with thicker wear layers can be sanded down entirely, whereas floors with thin wear layers should not be sanded. All hardwood lasts up to 100 years when well cared for.