Wood flooring has long been a hallmark of beauty, warmth, and longevity in interior design. Among the many hardwood species available, American Walnut (Juglans nigra) distinguishes out for its deep, rich tones and distinctive grain patterns. When created into engineered wide plank flooring, it becomes a premium alternative for both home and commercial settings.
This article discusses the elegance of American Walnut engineered flooring, its origins, available sizes, recommended installation methods, routine maintenance, and leading suppliers in the U.S.
American Walnut Wood‘s Beauty
In North America, American walnut, often known as black walnut, is one of the most sought-after hardwood species. This wood species, which is well-known for its opulent chocolate-brown tones, lends refinement to any area.
Features of the American Walnut:
Variations in color include lighter brown and deep chocolate, with hints of purple. The wood‘s patina becomes a little lighter with time.
Grain Pattern: It has a highly ornamental aspect because to its straight grain with sporadic curls and waves.
Hardness: It is softer than oak but still robust for indoor flooring, with a Janka hardness value of 1010 lbf.
Workability: Walnut is a popular choice among flooring makers because it is simple to mill and sand.
Sustainability: American walnuts, which are mostly sourced from the US, are farmed ethically using sustainable forestry methods.
Origin Country and Source
Native to the eastern United areas, American walnuts are widely distributed in areas including Indiana, Missouri, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. The wood is valued for its superior lumber, which is frequently utilized in exquisite flooring, cabinets, and furniture.
FSC-certified American walnut is used by reputable flooring manufacturers to guarantee ethical forestry practices. With stringent grading guidelines established by the National Hardwood timber Association (NHLA), the United States is one of the biggest manufacturers of walnut timber.
Flooring Sizes Available
American Walnut offers engineered broad plank flooring in a range of sizes to accommodate various interior requirements. Wide planks give rooms a more airy and opulent sense while highlighting the wood grain‘s inherent beauty.
Typical Dimensions:
Plank widths are often between 5" and 10", while some manufacturers provide custom widths of up to 12".
Lengths of planks: 2 to 10 feet; longer planks give a more continuous appearance.
Options for Thickness:
Designed The core Density: 12–20 mm
Wear Layer: 2–6 mm (Solid Hardwood Top Layer)
The floor‘s lifespan can be increased by refinishing it more frequently if the wear layer is thicker.
Suggested Installation Techniques
American Walnut wide planks, an engineered flooring product, are more stable than pure hardwood. Because the HDF core or multi-layer plywood minimizes expansion and contraction, it is perfect for a variety of installation settings, including radiant heating rooms.
Methods of Installation: Glue-Down (Suggested for Wide Planks)
Plywood or concrete subfloors work best.
reduces movement by providing strong adherence.
needs a premium wood flooring adhesive.
Installation That Floats
Ideal for engineered boards with tongue-and-groove or click-lock profiles.
Perfect for radiant heat systems or installations over pre-existing flooring.
needs an underlayment to guard against moisture and absorb sound.
Either staple-down or nail-down
Installations over plywood subfloors are advised.
gives the impression of more conventional hardwood.
Not recommended for concrete subfloors unless an underlayment of plywood is utilized.
For increased stability, a glue-assist approach (nail-down + glue) is frequently advised for wide boards (7" and above).
Regular Upkeep to Promote Longevity
American walnut is a high-end flooring option, and it needs to be properly cared for to keep looking beautiful. Despite being more robust than solid wood, engineered planks nevertheless require regular upkeep to protect their finish and avoid damage.
Cleaning on a daily and weekly basis: Use a vacuum or sweeper to get rid of any dirt or debris that can scrape the surface.
Apply a pH-neutral wood floor cleanser to a damp, but not wet, microfiber mop.
Steer clear of harsh chemicals, steam mops, and too much water since these can harm the finish.
Preventive Actions:
To avoid scratches, use felt pads underneath furniture.
To reduce wear, place mats or rugs in high-traffic areas.
To stop wood from moving, keep interior humidity levels between 35% and 55%.
To prevent scratches on surfaces, keep pet nails clipped.
Long-Term Care: If you‘re using an oil-based finish, re-oil or renew it every few years.
When the wear layer begins to show wear, lightly sand and refinish.
A professional flooring expert should be consulted for spot repairs if there are serious scratches or dents.
The United States‘ top suppliers of American walnut engineered flooring.
Superior American Walnut engineered flooring is the specialty of numerous American producers and distributors. When choosing a supplier, seek out businesses that provide long-lasting finishes, bespoke sizing possibilities, and materials sourced sustainably.
Prominent Vendors: Carlisle Wide Plank Flooring
focuses on opulent wide-plank flooring.
Sizes and finishes can be customized.
handmade production method.
Forest Products Horizon
provides high-end, long-lasting engineered walnut flooring.
large range of stains and widths.
Custom inlays and elaborate wood flooring patterns are hallmarks of Oshkosh Designs.
alternatives for premium American walnut flooring.
USA‘s IndusParquet
offers exotic wood blends and engineered walnut flooring.
The TrueMark? Glaze Tek finish, which increases durability, is a hallmark of Hallmark Floors.
Qualities to Consider in a Supplier:
Reviews and Reputation: Examine consumer reviews and the standing of the sector.
Wood Certification: Seek out certification from the NWFA or FSC.
Warranty: Long-term protection is guaranteed by a quality warranty.
Options for Customization: Custom widths, lengths, and finishes are available from certain sources.
A Flooring Option That Is Time-Proven
Wide plank flooring with American walnut engineering is an investment in durability, warmth, and beauty. It is a remarkable option for upscale residences, workplaces, and commercial spaces because of its rich tones, unique grain, and sturdy construction. This flooring can offer decades of elegance and performance if a high-quality product is chosen, installation techniques are followed, and care is taken.
American walnut adds classic appeal and sophistication to any setting, whether you‘re planning a sophisticated office area or a comfortable home decor.
