Your guide to choosing the most durable hardwood floors
Hardwood flooring installation is a smart home renovation investment because it immediately adds to the value of your home. Best of all, hardwood is one of the most durable options and can last for decades when properly cared for. Some American homes boast beautiful hardwood floors that are over a century old!
So how do you choose great hardwood flooring with all the species and types of hardwood flooring available? Strong Hardwood Floors is your guide to choosing the most durable hardwood floors and finishes for your home.
The most durable hardwood species
Hardwood flooring durability can be measured partly by the hardness of the flooring material. The hardwood durability scale is called the Janka hardness scale, and we recommend choosing a species that has a rating of at least 1,000 on that scale.
Some of the hardest wood species with the highest Janka hardness ratings are species like Brazilian Walnut (Ipe), Teak (Cumaru), Cherry (Jatoba) and Oak. Others include Santos Mahogany, Tigerwood, and American Hickory. Each species type varies in price. Some domestic species are more available, unique, and/or affordable than some exotic woods, and can have a wide range of beautiful and dramatic grain patterns and an abundance of colors.
Some of the most common species selected for both durability and affordability are Oak, which is durable and comes in both red and white. Other great species of wood include Maple, and Hickory, which all grow domestically. Each has a Janka rating of over 1300 and can be paired with different stains and finishes for a variety of warm, unique and sophisticated looks.
Ash flooring has also been a popular option for flooring, however this species is dwindling due to natural predators, like the Emerald Ash Borer. As Ash supply decreases, its cost will likely continue to rise.
Hardwood flooring installation is a smart home renovation investment because it immediately adds to the value of your home. Best of all, hardwood is one of the most durable options and can last for decades when properly cared for. Some American homes boast beautiful hardwood floors that are over a century old!
So how do you choose great hardwood flooring with all the species and types of hardwood flooring available? Strong Hardwood Floors is your guide to choosing the most durable hardwood floors and finishes for your home.
What is the most durable finish for hardwood floors?
Finishes show the first signs of wear on your floor first, so choosing the right finish for your room and flooring type is important. Some high-shine, glossy finishes might show wear more quickly in high-traffic areas and busy households than a natural oil or matte finish. Some finish types are better for certain flooring types than others, and our experts can help you choose which type of finish is best for your flooring needs.
Some of the most popular finishes for hardwood flooring include:
- Oil-Based Polyurethane, which protects like water-based polyurethane but gets deeper into the porous surface of your floor for deep protection.
- Aluminum Oxide, which is scratch resistant and protects against UV damage. This is a common finish for prefinished hardwood flooring.
- Natural Oils like Tung and Linseed oils.
Most durable hardwood floors for pets and parents
If you’re a pet owner or have small children, you know the damage that puppy paws and baby toys can do to your hardwood floors. Learn more about cleaning up after your pet’s messes with this recent article.
If you know pets or small children might be a hazard for your hardwood floors, it’s important to start with the right species and choose a durable, long-lasting finish. High gloss finishes are not recommended for areas where pet paws like to dig in to gain traction. Pet nails can easily scratch high-gloss surfaces.
If you know your small child or furry friend will be lounging, playing, and otherwise spending time in close contact with floors, we recommend natural solutions for a low-chemical environment. Natural oils are an excellent choice to keep your flooring looking new, and are easy to reapply when they need a refresh.
Remember water damage can be a threat to all hardwood flooring and finish types, so when you see a spill or puddle, clean it as quickly as possible.
Great hardwood flooring services near you
Whether you’re still choosing a flooring type, have questions about engineered hardwood flooring versus traditional solid hardwood floors, or have other design questions, we’re here to help. From choosing the right flooring type, stain and finish for your space, to details about maintaining your flooring throughout its lifetime, we’ll help you make the best flooring decisions for your home and individual needs.
Strong Hardwood Floors is your local hardwood flooring expert, and we can’t wait to help you get started today! Get in touch for more information or to answer any of your hardwood flooring questions.