Rift and Quarter Sawn Hardwood Flooring: A Superior Choice
Understanding Rift and Quarter Sawn
Rift and quarter sawn hardwood floors are prized for their exceptional quality, durability, and aesthetic appeal. These cutting methods produce boards with distinct grain patterns and superior stability compared to plain sawn flooring.
Key Benefits of Rift and Quarter Sawn Flooring:
- Enhanced Stability: Both rift and quarter sawn flooring are less susceptible to warping, cupping, and shrinking than plain sawn flooring. This is due to how the cut is made in relation to the concentric rings of a tree. As you can see from the diagram, the direction of the cuts result in boards that are more dimensionally stable over time.
- Superior Durability: The tight grain structure of rift and quarter sawn flooring makes it more resistant to wear and tear. These floors can withstand heavy foot traffic and other everyday stresses without showing signs of damage.
- Unique Aesthetic: Rift and quarter sawn flooring offer a variety of grain patterns that can add character and visual interest to any space. Rift sawn flooring typically features a straight, linear grain, while quarter sawn flooring often exhibits a more dramatic, book-matched pattern with prominent medullary rays.
- Increased Value: Homes with rift or quarter sawn hardwood flooring tend to have higher resale values. This is because these floors are considered to be a premium flooring option that can significantly enhance the overall appeal of a home.
Why Choose Rift and Quarter Sawn?
If you're looking for a hardwood flooring that is both beautiful and durable, rift and quarter sawn are excellent choices. These cutting methods offer a number of benefits that can make a significant difference in the appearance, performance, and value of your home.
A quick note on Live and Plane sawn:
In the wood flooring industry, the method of sawing a log significantly impacts the appearance, stability, and cost of the resulting flooring. The two most common methods are live sawn and plain sawn.
Live Sawn Flooring:
Unique Grain Patterns: Live sawn flooring is known for its distinctive and varied grain patterns. The sawing process results in a more irregular cut, creating a more natural and organic look.
Enhanced Stability: Due to the cutting technique, live sawn boards often have better dimensional stability, meaning they are less likely to warp or cup over time.
Plain Sawn Flooring:
Consistent Appearance: Plain sawn flooring offers a more uniform and predictable appearance. The boards are cut parallel to the grain, resulting in a consistent grain pattern throughout.
Potential for Warping: While plain sawn flooring is generally stable, it can be more susceptible to warping or cupping, especially in environments with fluctuating humidity.
Generally If the cut of wood is not specified you are getting plain sawn.