I recently had red oak floors installed and did not realize that the appearance of the grain would be so prominent. One of the problems is that the installer used several pieces with really dark/black streaks in an a fachion that was not uniformed. Is there any way to reduce the appearance of the grain in the floor? Right now the stain is medium brown. Would it help if I re-stained it a darker color? Is ther is filler that can be used to minimize the impact of the grains?

Please advise.

Thanks.

wood is wood. It's not man made. so you will get things like that. what grading is the wood anyway? this happens all the time. we try our best to do what we can. and it alway seem the the owners are never happen or even think that they know more than the floor guy that is doing the job.
Jeff

The appearance of the flooring used is determined by the species, the grade, and the way it is milled. A plain sawn red oak floor will have mineral streaks, especially # 1 common, which is a mid to low grade. Outside of removing the boards that offend you, there is not much that can be done now. Making it darker will effect the entire floor, so yes, if you want a black floor, then you could have the finisher stain it black. But it seems as if you have chosen a medium brown color because that is the color you wanted. It's not really the installers fault as the product is a natural product. Ask him to replace a few of most offending boards. You may have to pay for this.