5" White Oak Flooring Unfinished Solid Plain Sawn
Why Choose 5” White Oak Flooring?
Five inch white oak flooring is a practical sweet spot for wide plank projects. It delivers a wider, more updated look than traditional narrow strip while keeping planning, installation, and long term performance straightforward.
- Mid width advantage: A balanced width that looks modern without feeling oversized in smaller rooms.
- Less movement risk than wider planks: Compared to very wide boards, 5 inch planks typically show less seasonal expansion and contraction when installed and acclimated correctly.
- Better yield and availability: Five inch material is often easier to source consistently than wider widths, especially across multiple grades.
- Easier layout consistency on job sites: Faster planning, fewer transitions, and cleaner visual rhythm across open areas and hallways.
Understanding White Oak Grades
Grade impacts how much natural character you will see and how uniform the boards look across the floor. All grades are structurally sound. The best choice depends on style goals and budget.
- Select & Better: Cleaner installs with a more uniform appearance and minimal natural character. Ideal for contemporary and higher end projects.
- #1 Common: Natural variation with visible grain and color movement. A popular choice for warm, lived in designs.
- Character: A bolder, more casual look with more prominent character marks and variation than #1 Common. Great when you want a naturally expressive floor.
- #2 Common: Rustic and character forward with heavier variation. A strong fit for farmhouse, reclaimed, and relaxed interiors.
Plain Sawn vs Other Cuts
Cut refers to how the log is milled, and it affects the grain you see on the face of the board.
- What plain sawn looks like: Natural grain variation with cathedral patterns and movement across the floor, which many homeowners and designers prefer for a classic hardwood look.
- When to consider rift or quartered: If your design calls for straighter, tighter grain and a more uniform appearance, rift and quartered options may be a better fit.
- Why plain sawn is most commonly specified: It is widely available, cost effective, and offers the traditional white oak aesthetic that works across many styles.
Installation & Finishing Notes
Every job site is different. The notes below help set expectations and support planning for a smooth install and finish.
- Glue assist for 5 inch solid: For 5 inch wide solid flooring, glue assist is commonly required or recommended on many jobs to support stability and reduce movement risk. Follow NWFA guidance and adhesive manufacturer instructions for your specific conditions.
- Subfloor requirements: Confirm the subfloor is flat, clean, dry, and within moisture tolerances before installation. Address low spots and squeaks prior to fastening.
- Acclimation expectations: Allow material to acclimate to the living conditions of the space. Follow industry guidance for moisture testing and avoid rushing install after delivery.
- Finish flexibility: Unfinished white oak accepts a wide range of stains and site applied finishes. Always test your finish system on sample boards to confirm tone and sheen.
