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WOOD SPECIES COMPARISON

pine

Color & characteristics Most traditional type of hardwood. Rich color features interesting pin holes and knots with distinct grain patterns. Environmentally friendly choice due to rapid regrowth of pine trees.

Janka Hardness Rating (higher Janka rating = more durable wood)

910 Janka rating – a soft wood that is more likely to be dented and scratched than other woods, thus requiring more time on care and maintenance

Price Most Affordable / Inexpensive $

Beech

Color & characteristics Pale, cream color that may contain pink or brown hues. Straight grain with fine to medium texture. The density of the wood makes it hard to stain.

Janka Hardness Rating (higher Janka rating = more durable wood)

1300 Janka rating - Hard, durable flooring. Good for high traffic areas since it wears well and stays smooth when subjected to repeated friction.

Price Affordable / Moderately priced $$

Ash

Color & characteristics Stylish with a warm natural look. Fairly light color sometimes with a whitish hue. It’s light color causes it to get dirty easily and requires frequent cleaning.

Janka Hardness Rating (higher Janka rating = more durable wood)

1320 Janka rating - Medium hardness that can withstand heavy traffic yet soft and comfortable to stand on barefoot

Price Affordable / Moderately priced $$

Oak

Color & characteristics Classic look with old-fashioned warmth. A great choice for traditional style homes. Blends well with a wide range of furniture & décor. Red oak is lighter with a neutral color and reddish hue. White oak is pale brown with a pink or grey hue.

Janka Hardness Rating (higher Janka rating = more durable wood)

1360 Janka rating - Mid-range hardness. Can stands up to heavy impacts but is prone to scraping. Use furniture pads on all heavy furniture to prevent damage.

Price Affordable / Moderately priced $$

maple

Color & characteristics Distinctive light color and uniform texture. Low maintenance.

Janka Hardness Rating (higher Janka rating = more durable wood)

1450 Janka rating - One of the hardest woods available. It doesn’t scratch or scuff easily. Good for homes with children or pets.

Price Affordable / Moderately priced $$

walnut

Color & characteristics Notable rich, brown color that often contains a purple hue and dark swirling grains. Light weight and popular with multiple varieties.

Janka Hardness Rating (higher Janka rating = more durable wood)

1010 Janka rating – A soft hardwood. Not the best option for dining room where heavy chairs will be sliding back & forth

Price Expensive - $$$

hickory

Color & characteristics Noteable for its dramatic grain patterns and extreme durability – it can last a lifetime with minimal wear and tear. Good for families with children. Color is typically a medium tan to light red-brown color, also available in creamy white color.

Janka Hardness Rating (higher Janka rating = more durable wood)

1800 Janka rating – A strong and durable hardwood.

Price Expensive - $$$

mahogany

Color & characteristics Most premium with a deep dark rich floor. Grows in warmer climates such as Mexico and South America.

Janka Hardness Rating (higher Janka rating = more durable wood)

2200 Janka rating - Durable and hard.

Price Expensive - $$$

Brazilian Red Cherry

Color & characteristics Most popular species, available in several varieties, notable for its red and pink hues, tight & wavy grain, lustrous finish.

Janka Hardness Rating (higher Janka rating = more durable wood)

2820 Janka rating - maintains a good dimensional stability

Price Expensive - $$$