Characteristics of Black Walnut Flooring
The black walnut is a deciduous tree indigenous to North America and is found in the eastern United States. Black walnut trees grow from Vermont to the Great Plains, and south to Louisiana and Texas. They thrive in drier soils and are often found above streams and brooks. The highest-quality black walnut trees are found in and around the Ohio region of the United States.
Black walnut trees can grow to a height of 120 feet and usually reach maturity between 100-150 years. Because of the wood’s dark color and working characteristics, it is highly coveted by woodworkers and is used for flooring, furniture, and cabinets.
Color
Black walnut trees have a unique dark color. The heartwood, the center of the tree, ranges in color from dark chocolate brown to light greyish brown. The sapwood, the outer part of the tree trunk where the tree’s nutrients are located, is white to yellowish, gray, or tan. Because of the beautiful coloration, there is little need to stain or finish black walnut flooring. Most times only a clear coat sealer is applied to protect the wood and allow for the natural color to be displayed.
Unlike other types of wood, black walnut can lighten over time from sunlight. A proper UV sealer like those used on all ADM Flooring products can help minimize the effect.
Hardness
Black walnut is a dense wood that is also very resistant to decay. On the Janka hardness scale—tested by placing a steel ball on the wood and applying force until the ball is embedded halfway in the wood—black walnut falls between harder wood like black locust and softer wood like chestnut.
Grain
The grain of black walnut is usually straight but may have slight curls or waves. Its knots, crotches, and burls are considered an attractive and distinct feature. ADM walnut flooring is wire-brushed to a smooth texture, with little to no grooves.
Maintenance
It takes considerably less work to maintain engineered black walnut than true hardwood, but some upkeep is required. It’s important not to let moisture damage the wood, and natural wood cleaning products are preferred.
Unlike other hardwoods, black walnut can be difficult to sand. If you choose to refinish your black walnut floor, you must sand it with a diagonal stroke and it is recommended that you use a multi-disc or hard plate sander.
Explore our American walnut flooring options. Not finding what you’re looking for? Talk to our team! We’re always here to help make your dream project a reality.