Wide Plank Hardwood Flooring:
The Complete Michigan Guide
Wide plank hardwood has surged in popularity in Michigan since 2015. Here's everything you need to know — widths, stability, species, and the brands that do it best.
Width Guide: From Narrow to Ultra Wide
Traditional. Most affordable. Best for small rooms and traditional homes.
Most popular width. Works in any room size. Good balance of cost and appearance.
Growing in popularity. More character per board. Works well in open-plan spaces.
The sweet spot for wide plank. Dramatic look without excessive movement. Most popular wide plank size.
Luxury look. Engineered strongly recommended. Stunning in large rooms.
Premium/luxury. Engineered only. Available from DuChateau, Provenza, Three Trees.
Wide Plank in Michigan: Stability Is Everything
Michigan's humidity swings (20–80% RH annually) are the most important factor in wide plank flooring decisions. A 5" solid plank can move ⅛"–¼" seasonally — visible gaps in winter, slight crowning in summer. This is normal and expected, but it surprises homeowners who aren't prepared for it.
Solid Wide Plank (5"+)
Proceed with caution- •Maintain 35–55% RH year-round
- •Use a humidifier in winter
- •Expect seasonal gapping — it is normal
- •Nail-down installation only
- •Acclimate for 7–10 days before install
Engineered Wide Plank (5"+)
Recommended for Michigan- •Dramatically more stable than solid
- •Can be glued down on concrete
- •Available in 5"–10" widths
- •Brands: DuChateau, Provenza, Three Trees, Sheoga
- •Wear layer 3–6mm — refinishable
Frequently Asked Questions
What width is considered wide plank hardwood?
Hardwood flooring is generally considered "wide plank" at 5" or wider. Standard widths are 2¼"–3¼". Wide plank starts at 4"–5" and goes up to 10"+ for premium engineered products. The most popular wide plank widths in Michigan are 5" and 6".
Does wide plank hardwood gap more in Michigan winters?
Yes — wider planks move more with humidity changes. A 5" solid plank can gap ⅛"–¼" in a Michigan winter. Engineered wide plank is dramatically more stable and is the recommended choice for widths over 5" in Michigan homes.
Wide Plank in Stock — From 4" to 10"+
DuChateau, Provenza, Three Trees, Sheoga, and more. Visit our Rochester Hills showroom to see wide plank options in person.