Using oak flooring *NOT laminate, ??#3 Quality??

[Himark]

Any guys that have used some real oak flooring lately I am thinking of using the #3 grade as its in a older house and would have more character. But I dont mind filling small knot holes but is #3 worth using? or should I stay with 2 or select?

 

[aebsledder]

White or Red?

Not a complete flooring expert, but here is my 02.

If I were going for sheer durability, I would go with Red Oak over White in a #3. That being said, there are engineered products out there that are way more durable than real wood floors, so maybe durability isn't the deciding factor. I think #3 Oak floor in an older home is a great choice. It can always be refinished, and it is a timeless material that never really goes out of style. I like the extra character that a #3 provides as well. If it were me, I would go with a quarter sawn #3 White Oak. 4 or 5 inch planks. JMO.