Hardwood flooring offers one of the best home improvements you can do for your home. Aside from being timeless and aesthetic, hardwood flooring is strong and durable. It only means that it can comfortably take the footsteps of your family for generations.
Hardwood is an incredibly popular choice for homeowners who want flooring that boasts a classic look alongside great durability. If you’ve been shopping for hardwood, you’ve likely thought about the species and style you want. While aesthetics are important, it’s essential to remember that there’s more to hardwood than meets the eye.
Understanding Wood Hardness Ratings
The hardness of every wood can be measured using the Janka hardwood test. Testers use force to press a small metal ball into a piece of wood until it is halfway embedded and leaves a mark. The Janka rating is calculated by looking at the amount of force used to make a ding. The higher the rating, the harder the wood.
Red oak, which has a hardness rating of 1290, is the standard against which all other species are measured. Red oak is both resilient and versatile, which makes it a leading choice for homeowners. Of course, other options are available too. With a rating of 3680, Brazilian walnut is one of the hardest woods on the market today. Softer species such as Douglas fir and yellow pine are also time-tested choices popular with many homeowners.
Here at S&G Carpet and More, we want all of our clients to find the right flooring for their needs. That’s why we think it’s so important to understand the hardness ratings for wood flooring.
In terms of performance, what you need is a floor type capable of holding up to scratches, scuffs, dents and the normal wear-and-tear. Selecting a strong hardwood floor can become less difficult with the help of hardwood hardness scale.
