Remember, these picks represent our top choices for most durable wood flooring species. While they might not claim the title of the absolute toughest woods globally, they certainly rank among the sturdiest contenders commonly utilized in flooring projects!
#1. Brazilian Walnut (Ipe)
The Titan of Hardwoods Brazilian Walnut, also known as Ipe, reigns supreme as one of the most robust wood species available for flooring. With an astounding Janka rating of 3680 lbf, Brazilian Walnut boasts unparalleled durability, making it a prime choice for high-traffic areas and outdoor settings alike.
#2. Australian Buloke
The Unyielding Australian Icon Australian Buloke stands tall as one of the toughest wood species worldwide, boasting a remarkable Janka rating of 5060 lbf. Renowned for its exceptional hardness, Australian Buloke is a natural fit for environments demanding unmatched resilience and longevity.
#3. Cumaru (Brazilian Teak)
The Brazilian Powerhouse Cumaru, commonly known as Brazilian Teak, is revered for its impressive strength and durability. With a formidable Janka rating of 3540 lbf, Cumaru stands as a testament to resilience, making it an ideal choice for enduring hardwood flooring solutions.
#4. Hickory/Pecan
The Epitome of American Hardwoods Hickory, or Pecan as it’s sometimes called, embodies the essence of American toughness. With a robust Janka rating of 1820 lbf, Hickory/Pecan flooring exudes both strength and character, making it a favored option for those seeking enduring beauty.
#5. White Oak
The Classic Choice for Endurance White Oak emerges as a classic contender for durable wood flooring, with a respectable Janka rating of 1360 lbf. Renowned for its strength and versatility, White Oak flooring epitomizes enduring elegance, making it a perennial favorite among homeowners and designers alike.
#6. Santos Mahogany
Exotic Charm with Unyielding Strength Santos Mahogany captivates with its exotic allure and formidable durability, boasting a commendable Janka rating of 2200 lbf. With its rich red hue and tight grain, Santos Mahogany flooring exudes timeless sophistication and resilience.
#7. Ebony
The Rare Gem of Unmatched Toughness Ebony flooring commands attention with its unparalleled hardness, boasting an impressive Janka rating of 3220 lbf. As the only wood species in the world characterized by a jet-black appearance, Ebony stands as a rare gem of enduring beauty and strength.
#8. Maple
Contemporary Chic with Shock-Absorbing Qualities Maple flooring combines contemporary elegance with remarkable resilience, boasting a Janka rating of 1450 lbf. Loved for its creamy tones and delicate grains, Maple flooring offers enduring charm and shock-absorbing properties, making it an ideal choice for active households.
#9. Teak
Tropical Luxury with Exceptional Durability Teak flooring exudes tropical luxury and exceptional durability, boasting a Janka rating of 1000 lbf for Asian Teak and 1155 lbf for African Teak. Renowned for its resistance to moisture, decay, and insects, Teak flooring offers enduring beauty and longevity, making it a sought-after choice for indoor and outdoor applications.
#10. Acacia
The Versatile Hardwood with Natural Resilience Acacia flooring dazzles with its unique grain patterns and natural resilience, boasting a Janka rating that varies between species. Renowned for its hardness and resistance to scratches and water damage, Acacia flooring offers enduring beauty and durability, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of interior settings.
#11. Blackwood
The Australian Icon of Strength and Beauty Blackwood captivates with its rich color and abundant grain character, boasting a commendable Janka rating of 2200 lbf. Renowned for its strength and durability, Blackwood flooring exudes timeless elegance and enduring charm, making it a favored choice for discerning homeowners.
#12. Merbau
The Exotic Hardwood with Timeless Appeal Merbau flooring entices with its warm hues and distinctive grain patterns, boasting a Janka rating of 1712 lbf. Renowned for its durability and resistance to wear and tear, Merbau flooring offers enduring beauty and timeless appeal, making it a popular choice for both residential and commercial applications.
#13. Australian Cypress
The Rustic Beauty with Surprising Resilience Australian Cypress charms with its rustic beauty and surprising resilience, boasting a Janka rating of 1375 lbf. Renowned for its distinctive knots and golden hues, Australian Cypress flooring offers enduring charm and durability, making it a favored choice for cottage-style interiors and high-traffic areas alike.
#14. Zebrawood
The Striking Statement of Strength and Style Zebrawood flooring makes a bold statement with its striking appearance and exceptional durability, boasting a Janka rating of 1575 lbf. Renowned for its unique grain patterns and contrasting colors, Zebrawood flooring offers enduring beauty and strength, making it a prized choice for modern interiors and statement pieces.
#15. Australian Ironbark
The Iconic Australian Hardwood of Unmatched Toughness Australian Ironbark commands attention with its iconic beauty and unmatched toughness, boasting a remarkable Janka rating of 3625 lbf. Renowned for its strength and durability, Australian Ironbark flooring offers enduring elegance and resilience, making it a sought-after choice for both residential and commercial applications.
Read more
How To Draw Moisture Out Of Wood Floors