Wooden floorboards are not just functional flooring, they also give character to a room and play a key role in shaping its atmosphere and design. The choice of installation direction, whether lengthways or crossways, has a significant impact on the look and feel of the room and should be carefully considered from both an aesthetic and practical point of view. In this article you will learn about the advantages and disadvantages of different laying directions and how to make the right choice for your home.
Longitudinal planks – classic and room extending
Aesthetic and visual effect
Long planks create a flowing transition and make the room seem longer. Particularly in narrow spaces such as corridors, they create a feeling of elegance and spaciousness. They also emphasise the depth and width of a room. In very large rooms, however, this elongation can lead to an overemphasis on length and make the room feel unbalanced.
Practical aspects
A disadvantage of this installation direction is that irregularities in the wall or floor can be more noticeable. A level and well-prepared surface is therefore essential.
Cross-directional planks – wide, harmonious spatial effect
Aesthetic and spatial effect
Crossways planks create a wider and more harmonious sense of space. They are particularly suitable for large rooms as they balance the proportions and create a cosy atmosphere. However, in small rooms the emphasis on width can lead to an overwhelming feeling of space.Practical aspects A disadvantage of this installation direction is that irregularities in the walls or floor can be more noticeable. A level and well-prepared surface is therefore essential.
Practical aspects
In large, open spaces, planks laid crossways create an inviting ambience and promote a cosy atmosphere. Care should be taken in tight spaces, however, as this direction of installation can make the room look cluttered.
Room size and light – key factors
The choice of direction should always be made in conjunction with the size of the room and the available light source. Planks laid lengthways create a sense of depth, while planks laid crossways create a sense of width. The interplay between plank installation and light plays a key role in creating the desired atmosphere and optimising the proportions of the room.
Adapt the laying direction to the style of the room
Modern rooms often benefit from a lengthwise arrangement, which emphasises clarity and structure. In rustic or traditional rooms, a cross-directional installation blends in harmoniously and adds to the charm of the room. Matching the direction of installation to the style of your room will support the desired ambience and ensure a harmonious overall appearance.
Checklist: How to choose the perfect laying direction for your home
- Analyse the proportions of the room to make the most of the effect of the direction of installation.
Small rooms often benefit from planks laid lengthways, while large rooms look cosier with planks laid crossways. - Analyse light sources and consider their effect
The direction of light can enhance or diminish the effect of the flooring installation. Plan the layout so that light and light form a harmonious unit. - Check and prepare the condition of the substrate
A level and clean substrate is essential to avoid irregularities and ensure the durability of the floor. - Allow the style and character of the room to influence your choice
Allow the character of the room to influence your choice. A modern room calls for clean lines, while a rustic style can be enhanced with crossways planks.
Small decision, big impact
The direction in which your floorboards are laid influences the effect of the room and creates a unique ambience. Whether lengthways or crossways, make a conscious decision to install the direction that best accentuates the character of your room. With a well thought out choice you can create a home that is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing.
Visit our other blog posts for more tips and inspiration on solid wood flooring.
