We're sorry to hear of your disappointment. However, we're unaware of any other reports of color or finish issues, and no claims for the issue have been reported. We would ask that you have your local store file a claim so that the material in question can be evaluated by our Quality Control department. As it regards board lengths, these products may contain lengths between 12" - 46 1/4". However, there is no set ratio of board lengths per carton. All boards are originally milled to 46 1/4" and shorter boards are created if defects or other unwanted characteristics are discovered during the grading process; these are then cut out and the boards are milled to the shorter length. We aim to maintain long board widths on average, however, the nature of hardwood negates the ability to consistently create all full length boards. Therefore, consumers should work out of several cartons at a time so they can incorporate shorter pieces into the floor randomly as they are encountered.