Large open pores and an open grain pattern can be a determining factor in how well wood will take the stain. If you’re looking to stain your hardwood floors, the type of wood you choose will make a big difference. It’s not necessarily the wood that is the lightest that is best for staining; it often comes down to a few other factors.
Staining hardwood floors
Oakwood is excellent for staining.
Photo: Cannon Beach Oak from Kentwood
Wood is naturally beautiful and will come in any color tone and grain pattern. But, staining your floors will often give you the exact color you are looking for, something unique to your taste. Staining can also help you control how your floors are going to age. If you want your floors to stay the same for years to come, staining may be the answer.
Best Wood to Stain
It’s almost unfair, but at the top of your list are the good old Red and White Oak. Is there anything Oak isn’t good for? It’s no wonder oak is the number one wood in hardwood flooring. Centuries of hardwood floors have proven Oak to be one of the most durable, affordable, and reliable types of wood for hardwood floors. Whether you choose to leave them in their natural state, or you’re looking to stain, Red and White Oak are solid choices.
Grain pattern
Ash is another great wood for staining.
Look for species of wood that have large pores and an open grain pattern, like Oak and Ash. These characteristics will help the stain saturate the wood, creating a deeper and smoother application. Woods, with a tighter cellular structure like Maple and Birch, will have a harder time with a stain. A closed grain can sometimes result in a more patchy and splotchy application.
For the smoothest and most in-depth application of a wood stain, make sure you choose a species that will hold the stain, making it last.
Schedule a free consultation in one of our showrooms to talk about your hardwood flooring project.