Oak flooring is associated with durability, longevity, natural beauty, and a distinctive aesthetic characterIn recent years, the cross-brushing technique has been gaining increasing popularity. This method gives flooring depth, character, and authenticity by highlighting the natural structure of oak.
The texture is not only visually appealing but also highly functional: it is more resistant to wear, making it an ideal solution for public and commercial spaces.
What is cross-brushing of oak flooring?
Cross-brushing is a specialised surface-finishing technique in which the surface of the plank is brushed across the wood grain rather than along it. This process creates a unique, subtly textured relief that adds expressiveness and tactile depth to the surface of the board.
Key advantages of cross-brushed flooring
Expressive, deep texture
Cross-brushing highlights the natural grain of oak, creating soft shadows and visual depth. As a result, the floor appears more authentic, lively, and rich in character.
Improved resistance to wear
Due to the more pronounced surface relief, minor scratches and everyday wear marks become less noticeable. The floor ages beautifully and maintains its aesthetic quality even in high-traffic areas.
More matte surface effect
Cross-brushed boards have a distinctly natural, matte appearance. They are non-glossy and do not reflect light, allowing the wood texture to stand out more clearly and creating a calm, balanced aesthetic rooted in the properties of natural wood.
Harmonises with other natural materials
This texture pairs exceptionally well with other textured and natural surfaces such as microcement, stone, travertine, natural plaster, and similar materials. It is an ideal choice for interiors dominated by earthy materials and warm, minimalist Scandinavian aesthetics.
Highly valued in international markets — especially Italy
Italian designers particularly appreciate cross-brushed flooring for its ability to create matericità — an intense, sensory experience of the material. This texture conveys the “weight,” authenticity, and natural presence of wood. Cross-brushed oak boards blend seamlessly into interiors typical of Tuscany, Veneto, and Lombardy.
When is it best to choose cross-brushed oak flooring?
- For spaces requiring higher resistance to wear, such as galleries, retail spaces, and other high-traffic environments
- For design projects where material authenticity is essential
- For contemporary interiors based on natural materials and sustainability
- For international projects, especially in Italy and other Southern European countries
Our recommendations for cross-brushed flooring
Wide planks
Wider boards appear more proportional and harmonious when combined with a structured surface. The cross-brushed texture balances the visual weight of wide planks, adds lightness to the interior, and further emphasises the natural character of oak.
Wood grading and finish colour
Cross-brushing is especially effective on boards with fewer knots (Premium, Select grades). In this case, the surface texture becomes the main aesthetic accent, particularly when paired with lighter finish tones.
For those seeking a stronger visual statement, we recommend choosing darker finishes combined with more characterful wood (Original or Rustic grades), creating a bold and expressive flooring appearance.
Our recommended finish colours for cross-brushed boards
