Oak has been a particular favorite in English houses since the middle Ages with many a fine house being paneled in oak. It is a great wood for the home because it has anti-fungal properties and is resistant to insect attack. It is also dense so good for floors because it can withstand lots of people walking on it. Softwood would simply get damaged on a floor. Whilst oak flooring is not totally resistant to damage, it will wear well.
Oak flooring is available in different types, from English to American or French. Sustainably sourced oak will be Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified or PEFC certified. The majority of English and European oak will be grown sustainably, but oak from countries such as China may not be. It may be a cheaper product, but sustainability is important, as is the quality of the product. Cheap oak can lack definition and good color.
Solid Oak Floorboards
Oak boards can be bought in an engineered form. The solid oak floorboards are engineered to reduce movement caused by moisture. Strength is given by cross ply construction and three layers are created in this way. The uppermost layer will have an oak veneer. They are particularly good for use in new builds because there will be lots of variation in moisture content during construction and engineered boards will fare better than non engineered boards with less expanding and contracting. Wide oak boards are available which are wider than the standard oak floor boards. Quarter sawn board can be bought for a wave effect in the grain and Pippy Oak can be bought if you like the look of pips from the burr of the wood.
If you are buying a house with an existing oak floor, it is possible to change the finish. You can send it back and use a colored stain or simply protect the existing color. Varnish will add to the durability of the floor and help give it a more yellow effect. The floor can be waxed or oiled to give a natural finish.
Oak flooring will add value to the house because it is something that most people see as a plus point when buying a house. It is elegant, great for anyone with allergies or asthma and will warm up the tone of any room it is used in.
