Janka Hardness Scale

One of the best methods to measure the durability of a hardwood species is to measure its ability to withstand ‘denting’ the industry accepted standard for this test is the “Janka Ball” drop test. Based on these specific test criteria the wood is rated according to the Janka Hardness scale. Janka Hardness is used to compare the relative hardness of various species and represents the pounds of pressure required to embed a 0.444 diameter steel ball one half of its diameter into the wood. The higher the Janka number, the harder the wood.
The scale is only one component in accessing the durability of the floor. Type of cut, denseness of cell structure, construction and finish also play a role in determining the long time durability of your floor.

Also bear in mind a hard floor is not dent proof, harder species of woods will stand up to wear better than softer woods. However these are still wood products and since even steel dents if you hit it hard enough, your floor will also dent over time.

Factoid: A 120 pound women wearing stiletto heals will exert approximately 2000 pounds of pressure per square inch (PSI) on those heal tips. Any wood product will dent under such high loads.

Relative Hardness

Brazilian Teak:	3540
Brazilian Red Teak:	3540
Brazilian Chestnut:	3540
Brazilian Cherry:	2820
Tigerwood:	2160
Andiroba:	1848
Maple:	1450
Red Oak:	1290
American Cherry:	950