Hardwood Hardness Chart
Wood Species
Relative Hardness Table
Below are listed the relative hardness for numerous wood species used in flooring. The higher the number the harder the wood. These ratings were determined using the Janka Hardness Test. This should only be used as a general guide when comparing various species of wood flooring. Depending on where the wood is harvested the results may vary + or -. Plank construction and finish are also important factors when determining the durability and ease of maintenance of any wood floor.
| WOOD SPECIES | RATING |
| Alder | 590 |
| Douglas Fir | 660 |
| Southern Yellow Pine (shortleaf) | 690 |
| Tamarack | 800 |
| Southern Yellow Pine (longleaf) | 870 |
| Black Cherry | 950 |
| Black Walnut | 1010 |
| Teak | 1155 |
| Heart Pine | 1225 |
| Yellow Birch | 1260 |
| Red Oak(Northern) | 1260 |
| Kimbala | 1260 |
| American Beech | 1300 |
| Ash | 1320 |
| White Oak | 1360 |
| Australian Cypress | 1375 |
| Merbau | 1400 |
| Hard maple | 1450 |
| Wenge | 1630 |
| African Pedauk | 1725 |
| Bamboo | 1800 |
| Hickory | 1820 |
| Pecan | 1820 |
| Purpleheart | 1860 |
| Jarrah | 1910 |
| Santos Mahogany | 2200 |
| Mesquite | 2345 |
| Brazilian Cherry | 2820 |
| Brazilian Teak | 3540 |