The Timeless Classic: Exploring the Different Types of Oak Flooring
Oak has been the foundational choice for elegant, durable hardwood floors for generations. It offers a unique combination of strength, beauty, and versatility that has defined North American style.
While all oak provides natural beauty and excellent value, understanding the key differences between the types can help you select the perfect floor for your unique tastes.
Red Oak vs. White Oak: The Two Main Species
In Canada, oak is primarily categorized into two main species, each with distinct visual characteristics:
| Feature | Red Oak | White Oak |
| Colour | Warm, light brown with subtle reddish/pinkish undertones. | Cooler, more neutral, ranging from light beige to brown with grayish undertones. |
| Grain Pattern | Prominent, bold, and swirling; often called “cathedral” grain. Excellent for hiding wear. | Tighter, straighter, and more subtle; creates a sleek, contemporary look. |
| Hardness (Janka) | Approximately 1290 | Slightly harder, approximately 1360. |
| Water Resistance | More open grain structure makes it less water-resistant. | Closed cellular structure gives it better natural resistance to moisture. |
The choice between the two often comes down to the desired final look. Red Oak’s warm colour and prominent grain make it ideal for traditional or rustic aesthetics, while White Oak’s cooler tone and subdued grain make it the favourite for modern, contemporary spaces that often utilize grey or light stains.
Construction Types: Solid vs. Engineered
Beyond the species, oak flooring is defined by its construction method, which affects where it can be installed and how long it lasts:
- Solid Oak Hardwood: Crafted from a single, thick piece of natural wood.
- Benefit: Can be sanded and refinished multiple times over its life, potentially lasting for generations.
- Use: Ideal for on-grade or above-grade rooms, but susceptible to moisture and temperature changes in basements.
- Engineered Oak Hardwood: Constructed with multiple layers of plywood or HDF, topped with a genuine, thin veneer of Red or White Oak.
- Benefit: Superior stability. The cross-ply construction makes it highly resistant to moisture-related warping, making it suitable for below-grade installation (basements) and areas like kitchens.
- Use: Offers the authentic look and feel of solid oak but with enhanced performance.
Shop Beautiful Oak Flooring for Your Home Online with GC Flooring
Since opening our doors in 1995, GC Flooring has been supplying superior quality oak flooring to all 10 provinces of Canada. We buy in bulk to ensure you receive a beautiful, high-value floor—whether it’s solid Red Oak or stable engineered White Oak—at a lower price point than our competitors.
Ready to choose the perfect oak floor for your space? Call, shop at home, or visit Giant Commercial Flooring in Ottawa, Ontario, for a high-quality selection.