Janka hardness test

The Janka hardness test gives a rating based on the relative hardness of most of the popular species of wood. The test involves measuring the amount of force required to push a 0.444 inch steel ball exactly half way into the wood surface. It also gives a good indication of how easy or hard it will be to saw and work with the wood.

This test was devised by the National Wood Flooring Association and is a very good and reliable method for comparing the hardness of different wood species. However, it should be used only as a general guide because many factors can affect the hardness of a particular tree, including age, whether it is heartwood or sapwood, the type of wood finish applied, the geographical location etc.

The table below shows the Janka test results for typical samples of wood species - the higher the rating, the harder the wood species.

The test gives an indication of the ability of a wood floor to withstand excessive wear and denting. However, the floorboard construction and protective finish applied are also major factors in resistance to wear, durability and ease of maintenance.