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How Thick Should Hardwood Flooring Be? A Beginner’s Guide

July 23, 2024

When it comes to installing hardwood flooring in your home, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right thickness. The thickness of your hardwood flooring not only affects its appearance but also its durability, stability, and overall performance. As a homeowner, navigating the various thickness options can be overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the world of hardwood flooring.

In this beginner’s guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about hardwood flooring thickness. We’ll discuss the common thickness options available, factors to consider when making your choice, and recommendations based on your specific needs. By the end of this guide, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to confidently select the perfect thickness for your hardwood flooring project.

Understanding Hardwood Flooring Thickness

Before we explore the factors to consider when choosing hardwood flooring thickness, we need to make sure that we have a clear understanding of the common thickness options available and how it’s measured.

Common Hardwood Thickness Options

Hardwood flooring typically comes in three thickness options:

  1. 3/8 inch (10mm)
  2. 1/2 inch (12mm)
  3. 3/4 inch (19mm)

Each thickness has its own advantages and disadvantages, which we’ll discuss later in this guide.

Thickness Measurement: Nominal vs. Actual

When shopping for hardwood flooring, you may come across the terms “nominal” and “actual” thickness. Nominal thickness refers to the thickness before the flooring is milled, while actual thickness is the real thickness of the flooring after milling. For example, a hardwood floor with a nominal thickness of 3/4 inch may have an actual thickness of 5/8 inch.

Make sure to pay attention to the actual thickness when comparing different hardwood flooring options to make sure you’re making an accurate comparison.

Relation Between Thickness, Durability, and Stability

Thicker flooring is generally more durable and stable than thinner flooring, as it can better withstand foot traffic, furniture weight, and minor imperfections in the subfloor. This is important to consider when choosing between hardwood and engineered wood.

However, thicker flooring also comes with a higher price tag and may require a more involved installation process. When you shop for your new flooring, make sure to find the right balance between thickness, durability, and your budget when making your decision.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Hardwood Flooring Thickness

Now that you have a better understanding of hardwood flooring thickness, let’s explore the key factors to consider when making your decision.

Subfloor Type and Condition

The type and condition of your subfloor play a significant role in determining the appropriate hardwood flooring thickness.

Plywood subfloor: If you have a plywood subfloor in good condition, you can opt for any of the common thickness options (3/8″, 1/2″, or 3/4″).

Concrete subfloor: When installing hardwood flooring over concrete, it’s best to choose engineered hardwood or thinner solid hardwood (3/8″ or 1/2″) to allow for proper adhesion and to minimize the risk of moisture-related issues.

Existing flooring: If you plan to install hardwood flooring over existing flooring, such as tile or vinyl, thinner options (3/8″ or 1/2″) are recommended to ensure a smooth transition and to avoid raising the floor level too much.

Installation Method

The installation method you choose will also influence the necessary thickness of your hardwood flooring.

Nail-down installation: For nail-down installation, 3/4″ hardwood flooring is the most common and suitable option, as it provides the necessary thickness for proper nail retention.

Glue-down installation: When using the glue-down method, 3/8″ or 1/2″ hardwood flooring is recommended, as thicker options may not allow for proper adhesion to the subfloor.

Floating installation: For floating hardwood floors, thinner options (3/8″ or 1/2″) are usually preferable, as they are more flexible and easier to install without the need for nails or glue.

Room Location and Traffic

Consider the location and the amount of foot traffic the room receives when choosing hardwood flooring thickness.

High-traffic areas

For rooms with high foot traffic, such as entryways, kitchens, and living rooms, thicker hardwood flooring (3/4″) is recommended for its durability and ability to withstand wear and tear.

Low-traffic areas 

In bedrooms, closets, and other low-traffic areas, thinner hardwood flooring (3/8″ or 1/2″) can be a suitable choice, as it may be more cost-effective while still providing the desired aesthetic.

Moisture-prone areas

For bathrooms, basements, and other areas prone to moisture, it’s advisable to choose engineered hardwood flooring, which is more stable and resistant to moisture than solid hardwood.

Budget and Longevity

When you consider the thickness of your hardwood floor, make sure to take into account both budget and the desired longevity.

Thicker flooring 

3/4″ hardwood flooring is generally more expensive but offers a longer lifespan and can be refinished multiple times, making it a good long-term investment. A thicker, well-maintained hardwood floor can last anywhere from 40-50 years. This can be a great investment, whether you are looking to sell or just live in your house for years to come.

Thinner flooring

3/8″ and 1/2″ hardwood flooring options are typically more affordable but may have a shorter lifespan than thicker wood. They tend to last somewhere between 20-30 years with typical wear and tear. Another factor to consider is that since they are thinner, they can only be refinished fewer times compared to thicker options.

Recommended Hardwood Flooring Thicknesses

Now that we’ve covered the factors to consider when choosing hardwood flooring thickness, let’s discuss some recommendations based on common scenarios.

3/8″ Hardwood Flooring

Best for: Glue-down installation over concrete subfloors

Pros: Affordable, easier to install, suitable for areas with height restrictions

Cons: Less durable than thicker options, may feel less solid underfoot, limited refinishing options

1/2″ Hardwood Flooring

Best for: Most installations, including nail-down, glue-down, and floating; budget-conscious homeowners

Pros: Versatile, more affordable than 3/4″ hardwood, suitable for most subfloor types

Cons: Less durable than 3/4″ hardwood, may have a shorter lifespan, limited refinishing options

3/4″ Hardwood Flooring

Best for: Nail-down installation, high-traffic areas, and homeowners seeking longevity

Pros: Most durable option, feels solid underfoot, can be refinished multiple times, long lifespan

Cons: More expensive than thinner options, may require a more involved installation process

Now’s Your Choice To Pick The Right Option

Remember, choosing the right hardwood flooring thickness is a decision that can impact the appearance, durability, and overall performance of your flooring. When you consider factors such as subfloor type and condition, installation method, room location and traffic, budget, and longevity, you can make an informed choice that best suits your needs and preferences.

Remember, while this guide provides valuable information to help you make your decision, it’s always recommended to consult with a professional flooring store. They can assess your specific situation and provide expert advice to ensure you choose the perfect hardwood flooring thickness for your home.

With the right hardwood flooring thickness, you can enjoy a beautiful, durable, and long-lasting floor that enhances the value and comfort of your home for years to come. If you’re ready to lay down your newly purchased hardwood flooring, learn the proper way to lay down hardwood floors here.