February 26th, 2024
When trying to figure out what type of hardwood flooring is the most durable, there are a few things to consider:
- The Janka Scale
- Hardwood And Engineered Harwood Flooring
- Vinyl and Laminate Flooring
The Janka Scale
The Janka Scale is an industry-standard measurement of different wood species’ hardness. This measurement is not just used for hardwood flooring but for all types of woodworking industries that work with wood. The Janka Scale measurement represents the force it takes to shoot a steel ball into the surface of the wood. This measurement is how hardwood floors are rated according to their hardness.
Hardwood vs. Engineered Hardwood
Hardwood floors are solid cuts of wood that are used to make up flooring planks. Engineered hardwood floors are made of pressed wood or other materials with a thin layer of hardwood on the top. Hardwood and engineered hardwood floors look identical to the naked eye. The hardwoods they both use share very similar degrees of durability. These are the most durable types of wood for both hardwood and engineered hardwood floors:
Oak
Many consider oak to be the industry standard of durability. However, there are far more durable types of wood. Nevertheless, when properly maintained, oak floors will last a lifetime.
Hickory
Hickory is one of the hardest types of wood flooring that’s easily accessible to most consumers. However, hardness doesn’t always mean durability. Hickory, if not maintained, can warp and bow, especially when wet. Hickory is an excellent option for most people when looking for a durable floor.
Mahogany
Mahogany floors are also some of the hardest floors on the Janka scale. However, they are considered exotic and might get pricey depending on where they’re sourced. It is also important to note that Mahogany has a distinct wood grain pattern that is not for everybody.
Maple
Maple is one of the most popular choices of durable hardwood flooring. Most large public spaces with hardwood floors are typically made of maple. Most people don’t know that basketball courts are made of maple for their shock absorbent qualities and durability. Maple makes a great, durable choice for a lot of consumers.
Oil-Based And Water-Based Polyurethane
The finishing applied to your hardwood and engineered hardwood floors is crucial for their durability. In most scenarios, an oil or water-based polyurethane finishing will be needed for durability. Hardwood and engineered hardwood will need to be refinished over the floor’s life.
Vinyl vs. Laminate
Vinyl and laminate flooring are very different than hardwood and engineered hardwood. Vinyl flooring, which is made of vinyl, is not a wood-based product. It is entirely waterproof and much more durable than hardwood. Vinyl flooring’s waterproofness and durability are two of the biggest reasons people prefer “fake” wood floors in their homes and businesses over natural hardwood.
Even though vinyl and laminate flooring are more durable than natural hardwood, hardwood and engineered hardwoods can stand the test of time when properly cared for. However, hardwoods are not for everyone. We hope this guide has been a help to you.
For more questions concerning hardwood flooring, engineered hardwood flooring, or vinyl flooring, please don’t hesitate to contact us for help!