Wood Species
Relative hardness Table |
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| Listed below is the relative hardness for most wood species used in flooring. These ratings were done using the Janka Hardness Test, which measure the force needed to embed a .444 inch steel ball to half it's diameter in a piece of wood. The higher the number the harder the wood. Although this is one of the best methods to measure the ability of wood species to withstand indentations, it should be used as a general guide when comparing various species of wood flooring. The construction and finish also play an important role in the durability and ease of maintenance of any wood floor. |
Wood Species |
Rating |
Origin |
American Cherry |
950 |
North America |
Black Walnut |
1010 |
North America |
Teak, True |
1150 |
Burma |
Birch |
1260 |
Europe/America |
Iroko |
1260 |
Africa |
Northern Red Oak |
1290 |
North America |
Beech |
1300 |
Europe |
Brazilian Oak - Amendoim |
1340 |
South America |
White Oak |
1360 |
Europe/America |
Australian Cypress |
1375 |
Australia |
Bamboo |
1410 |
China |
Hard Maple |
1450 |
North America |
Ash |
1460 |
Asia, America |
Wenge |
1630 |
Africa |
Kempas |
1710 |
Asia |
African Padauk |
1725 |
Africa |
Hickory |
1820 |
North America |
Merbau |
1925 |
Asia |
Purpleheart |
2090 |
South America |
Santos Mahogany - Cabriuva |
2320 |
South America |
Brazilian Cherry - Jatoba |
2820 |
South America |
Brazilian Teak - Cumaru |
3540 |
South America |
Brazilian Walnut - Ipe |
3680 |
South America |
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