Hickory vs. Oak Flooring: Which Hardwood Is Best?
Choosing between hickory and oak is a common dilemma for homeowners. While oak is the classic industry standard, hickory offers a unique, high-durability alternative. This guide breaks down the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed decision.
Appearance and Grain Patterns
Oak: Known for a consistent, predictable grain. Red Oak offers warm, reddish-brown tones, while White Oak provides cooler tans and grays. It is the safe choice for a uniform look.
Hickory: Celebrated for its dramatic variety. No two planks are identical, ranging from creamy beige to rich golden brown. Its “busy” grain is perfect for a rustic, high-character aesthetic.
Durability: The Janka Scale
If durability is your top priority, Hickory is the winner. It is significantly harder than oak, boasting a Janka rating of 1820. For comparison, White Oak ranks at 1360 and Red Oak at 1290. This makes hickory exceptionally resistant to dents and scratches from pets, children, and heavy foot traffic.
Cost Comparison
Oak is generally more affordable and widely available, offering a lower entry-level price. Hickory tends to be slightly more expensive due to its rarity and the difficulty of processing such hard wood. However, for premium-grade planks, the prices between the two species often become very comparable.
Installation and Handling
Because hickory is so dense, it is more difficult to cut and handle, often requiring carbon-tipped saw blades. Oak is much easier to work with, making it one of the simplest hardwoods to install. Note that if you choose engineered wood, these installation differences are virtually eliminated.
Resale Value
Both species add significant value to a home. Oak is a crowd-pleaser that appeals to the widest range of buyers. Hickory, while more unique, can command a higher price for buyers specifically looking for its rare, custom appearance.
Factory Direct Quality & Expert Installation
At Redeemed Flooring, we offer both hickory and oak at unbeatable prices. As a Factory Direct Store, we import our own lumber and pass the savings to you. Our professional installers have 15+ years of experience handling every type of hardwood with precision.
Ready for a sample? Email us at hello@redeemedflooring.com.