Hardwood Guide
Hickory Flooring
Hickory is one of the hardest common domestic hardwoods, with a Janka rating of 1820, and it has bold grain and strong color variation from light to dark within the same floor.
Hickory is one of the species we show at our Kalispell showroom, alongside white oak and walnut, from hardwood brands including Shaw Floors, Anderson Tuftex and Hallmark Floors.
Why people choose hickory
Its hardness helps it handle busy households, and its varied grain hides everyday wear well. Hickory suits rustic, cabin and mountain-home interiors, and lighter finishes give it a more modern feel.
Color variation and grade
Hickory boards range from creamy sapwood to darker heartwood, so the floor reads busy. Higher grades show less contrast and fewer character marks; rustic grades show more knots and color. Look at a large sample or several boxes together.
Engineered vs solid hickory
Engineered hickory has a real hickory wear layer over a stable core, which generally handles Montana's dry winters and over-radiant installs better. Solid hickory can be sanded more times in stable, conditioned rooms. Follow the manufacturer's acclimation and humidity requirements.
Finishes
Hickory takes stains and hardwax oils, but its strong grain contrast changes how stain reads. We carry Rubio Monocoat, Bona and Loba finish systems.
Hickory Flooring FAQ
Is hickory harder than oak?
Yes. Hickory's Janka rating is 1820 versus 1360 for white oak.
Does hickory flooring scratch easily?
Hickory is hard and its grain hides wear, but any wood floor can scratch. Rugs, felt pads and a good finish help.
Is engineered hickory good for Montana?
Engineered hardwood generally handles humidity swings better. See engineered hardwood flooring.
Why does hickory have so much color variation?
Hickory has light sapwood and darker heartwood, and many grades include both. Higher grades show less contrast.
Where can I see hickory flooring?
Our Kalispell showroom shows hickory alongside oak and walnut. Call ahead to confirm samples.
Request a quote
Tell us about your project and our team will follow up with a written materials quote.
See it in our Kalispell and Lakeside showrooms
Compare these materials side by side in person and take samples home to check in your own light.