When it comes to choosing the right species of wood for your wooden floor, there are several factors to consider. While oak is a popular and affordable option, ash is often considered as an alternative. In this article, we will compare smoked oak flooring made from ash and oak, highlighting their differences and advantages.
Differences in Colour and Price
Ash wood flooring comes from ash trees, which can produce both soft and hardwoods. Ash wood is known for its hardness, even harder than oak, but it is less resistant to moisture. The sapwood of ash is almost white, while the heartwood ranges from warm beige to dark brown. Ash wood has a noticeable grain but not as apparent as oak wood. Ash wood takes stains well and is appreciated for its light colour. However, ash wood is typically more expensive than oak wood.
On the other hand, oak wood is highly popular and readily available for both solid and engineered wood flooring. Oak wood comes in various species and is known for its strength and longevity. It ranges in colour from dark tones to very blonde wood and has a pronounced grain. Oak wood is highly resistant to moisture and humidity, making it a suitable choice for areas with high footfall. Oak wood is also known for its resistance to denting and scratching, making it ideal for busy households.
Grades and Quality
Both ash and oak wood flooring come in different grades, which affect their appearance and price. Ash wood flooring tends to be on the lighter side, and the grades and quality determine the pricing. Oak wood flooring is available in prime, select, natural, and rustic grades, and all grades have distinctive markings.
Working with Ash and Oak Flooring
While some woodworkers argue that ash is slightly easier to work with than oak, this shouldn't be a deciding factor when it comes to flooring. Both ash and oak wood flooring come ready to lay, requiring minimal additional work. Maintenance for both options is similar, so it shouldn't be a major concern.
In conclusion, smoked oak flooring made from ash and oak offer different characteristics and advantages. Ash wood flooring is known for its hardness and light color, but it is more expensive than oak. Oak wood flooring, on the other hand, is highly popular, readily available, and offers resistance to moisture, denting, and scratching. Ultimately, the choice between ash and oak depends on personal preference, budget, and the specific requirements of the space. For further assistance, feel free to reach out to Wood and Beyond, where our experienced team can provide guidance based on your needs.
If you want to know other articles similar to Smoked oak flooring: ash vs oak - a detailed comparison you can visit the Flooring category.
Related Articles