Hardness Ratings

• The Janka Hardness Test and rating is an international system used to compare the hardness of various species and types of wood. The test measures the force necessary to embed a 0.444-inch steel ball halfway into the surface of the wood. This measures the wood species' ability to withstand scratching and denting. The test and rating also indicates how hard it is to nail or saw a piece of wood. It's important to remember there is variation within a species type, so you should always purchase the best quality wood you can afford.
  
  

Brazilian Walnut

• Brazilian walnut is the hardest type of natural wood for flooring, with a Janka rating of 3680. Brazilian walnut is also sometimes referred to as Ipe. The wood grows commonly in Brazil, Guatemala, Bolivia and Peru. It has a rich, medium-brown color and is often used in marine construction. Brazilian walnut can be unstable; the wood can shrink considerably if it is not kiln-dried. Floor installation requires that the wood acclimate for several weeks.
  
  

Tiete Chestnut

• Tiete chestnut is the second-hardest natural wood flooring, with a Janka rating of 3540. It grows commonly is Venezuela, Brazil, Paraguay and Bolivia. It is sometimes called Brazilian chestnut. It has a light-brown color with yellow undertones. It is commonly used in flooring and furniture.
  
  

Brazilian Teak

• Like Tiete chestnut, Brazilian teak claims a Janka rating of 3540. This wood is known for having a lot of natural oils that keep it supple. It is light in color with yellow undertones. It commonly grows in Brazil, Bolivia and Peru. It is used to make decking, furniture, marine products and plywood as well as wood flooring.
  
  

Brazilian Cherry

• Brazilian cherry wood is another hard type of natural wood flooring. It has a hardness rating of 2350, compared to Douglas fir -- a softwood with a rating of only 660. Brazilian cherry is sometimes referred to as Jatoba. It is medium brown with red undertones and is known for its natural fading.
  
  

Finish Considerations

• Hardwood itself might be able to withstand some gouges, dents and scratches, but if the finish is not high-quality and hard it will show light scratches. Numerous scratches can be just as visible as deep gouges in your floor. So use the best quality and hardest finish you can afford to prevent scratches on even very hard wood such as Brazilian cherry.