Hardwood floors have long been the standard of beauty and excellence when it comes to warm, long-lasting, and classic looks for home or work. Of course, hardwood flooring comes in an array of colors, plank sizes, and more. Most clients are also concerned with durability when it comes to hardwood flooring and may ask a flooring contractor or installation company what type of wood flooring wears best.
Harder wood is less susceptible to denting and scratching. Different species have varying levels of hardness, so the industry has created a set of standards known as Janka Ratings. Of course, hardwoods rate higher on this list than softwoods, but within hardwoods, some are higher than others, and some species wear better than others. In general, most exotic wood (not domestic to North America) is generally higher on the scale.
Examples of exotic wood include Patagonian Rosewood, Brazilian Walnut, Brazilian Cherry, African Pedauk, and Red Cumaru. Domestic examples include White Oak, Hard Maple, Hickory, and Pecan. Although bamboo is not considered wood, it is a popular natural material for floors, so the flooring industry gives it a Janka Rating.
Harder wood resists scratching and dents better. However, proper care and cleaning play a critical role in how long a wood floor lasts. There is no substitute for regular maintenance. A lower-rated hardwood floor can last much longer than a higher-rated wood floor. This happens when it receives consistent care. Regular cleaning and frequent removal of dirt and grit significantly extend the life of the floor. Keeping children’s toys and dog toenails to a minimum will also help a wood floor last longer. Improper care of a hardwood floor is the biggest indicator of whether or not it wears well.
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