Unfinished oak flooring is one of the most popular choices for Michigan homeowners and contractors. It offers complete customization — you choose the stain color and finish sheen — at a lower material cost than prefinished options. This comprehensive pricing guide covers current unfinished oak flooring prices by species, grade, and width.
Red Oak vs. White Oak: What's the Difference?
Red Oak
- • Janka hardness: 1290
- • Warm reddish-brown tones
- • Pronounced grain pattern
- • Most popular species in the US
- • Slightly less expensive than white oak
- • Takes stain well
White Oak
- • Janka hardness: 1360
- • Neutral gray-brown tones
- • Tighter, more subtle grain
- • Increasingly popular for modern interiors
- • Slightly more expensive than red oak
- • Excellent for gray and natural stains
Current Unfinished Oak Pricing Guide
Prices are approximate ranges. Contact us for current pricing and availability.
| Product | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Red Oak 2.25" Select & Better | $3.50 – $4.50/sq ft |
| Red Oak 3.25" Select & Better | $4.00 – $5.00/sq ft |
| Red Oak 4" Select & Better | $4.50 – $5.50/sq ft |
| Red Oak 5" Select & Better | $5.00 – $6.50/sq ft |
| White Oak 3.25" Select & Better | $4.50 – $5.50/sq ft |
| White Oak 4" Select & Better | $5.00 – $6.50/sq ft |
| White Oak 5" Select & Better | $5.50 – $7.00/sq ft |
| White Oak 6" Select & Better | $6.50 – $8.50/sq ft |
Factors That Affect Unfinished Oak Pricing
- Grade — Select & Better has minimal knots; #1 Common has more character; #2 Common has the most variation
- Width — wider planks cost more per square foot
- Species — white oak commands a slight premium over red oak
- Quantity — larger orders typically receive better pricing
- Market conditions — lumber prices fluctuate with supply and demand
- Tariffs — 2025–2026 lumber tariffs have affected pricing on some imported products
Unfinished Oak Grades Explained
Select & Better (FAS / Select)
The clearest grade — minimal knots, uniform color, and tight grain. Best for formal rooms, contemporary designs, and homeowners who want a clean, consistent look. Highest price point. Most popular for luxury Michigan renovations.
#1 Common
The most popular grade for Michigan homes. Allows for some knots, color variation, and mineral streaks — giving the floor a natural, lived-in character. Excellent value: you get the authenticity of real wood character at a lower price than Select & Better. Works beautifully in traditional and transitional Michigan homes.
#2 Common
The most character-rich grade — larger knots, more color variation, and more mineral streaking. Creates a rustic, farmhouse aesthetic. The most affordable unfinished oak option. Popular for cottages, vacation homes, and homeowners who want a bold, natural look.
Cabin Grade / Tavern Grade
Below #2 Common — significant character, some defects. Used for rustic applications, barns, and commercial spaces where character is valued over uniformity. The lowest price point for solid oak flooring.
Finishing Costs: What to Budget Beyond Materials
| Finishing Step | DIY Cost | Professional Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Sanding (drum + edge) | $60–$100/day rental | $1.50–$2.50/sq ft |
| Stain (optional) | $0.30–$0.60/sq ft materials | $0.50–$1.00/sq ft |
| Sealer coat | $0.20–$0.40/sq ft materials | $0.30–$0.60/sq ft |
| 2–3 coats polyurethane | $0.40–$0.80/sq ft materials | $1.00–$2.00/sq ft |
| Total finishing (500 sq ft) | $400–$700 + rental | $1,500–$3,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is unfinished hardwood flooring?
Unfinished hardwood is raw solid wood that is sanded and finished on-site after installation. This allows for complete customization of stain color and finish sheen, and creates a seamless look with no beveled edges between planks. It's ideal for matching existing floors, achieving a specific aesthetic, or getting a custom color that isn't available in prefinished options.
What finish should I use on unfinished oak in Michigan?
For Michigan homes, we recommend Bona Traffic HD (waterborne polyurethane) for its durability and low VOCs, or DuraSeal oil-based polyurethane for a warmer amber tone and more forgiving application in Michigan's variable humidity. Rubio Monocoat is an excellent oil finish option for a natural, matte look. Quality Hardwoods of Michigan carries all major finish brands and can advise on the best choice for your specific project.
Where can I buy unfinished oak flooring in Michigan?
Quality Hardwoods of Michigan in Rochester Hills stocks unfinished red oak and white oak in multiple widths (2.25"–6"+) and grades (Select & Better, #1 Common, #2 Common). We also carry all the stains, sealers, and finishes needed to complete your project. Call (248) 853-2232 or visit our showroom at 1799 Northfield Dr for current pricing and availability.
Get Current Unfinished Oak Pricing in Michigan
Quality Hardwoods of Michigan stocks a wide selection of unfinished red oak and white oak flooring. Contact us for current pricing and availability.