5 Hardest Hardwood Flooring Options for Toronto Residents
Are you thinking about installing a hardwood floor in your home and want to know what the hardest wood in Canada is? Installing hardwood flooring is a big investment. So, you want it to last for decades. To that end, it should be hard and durable.
However, not all hardwood species are equally hard. In fact, some are softer than some species of softwood.
When it comes to rating wood flooring in Toronto by its hardness, the Janka Hardness Scale is the preferred and most reliable method. The higher the rating on this scale, the harder the wood species. It is a widely-accepted standard that gives an idea of how long the flooring will last. It also helps buyers find the best hardwood flooring for their home.
Keep reading to learn about the best options for hardwood flooring with the top rankings on the Janka Hardness Scale.
Best Hardwood Species for Hard & Durable Flooring
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Red Oak
One of the most common species of hardwood flooring is red oak. This is because it is both affordable and hard enough to resist dents and hold up to wear and tear.
The colour palette of red oak ranges from light cream to reddish pink and brown. Its warm tones and natural grain offer a cozy, inviting feel. This makes it ideal for both living and dining rooms, especially if you do not prefer installing rugs.
Janka Rating: 1290
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White Oak
White oak is another popular type of wood for flooring in Toronto due to its durability, availability, and affordability. It can also take several finishes and accept an impressive range of stains. This gives homeowners the freedom to customize this type of hardwood flooring according to their needs.
Janka Rating: 1350
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Hickory
Hickory hardwood flooring is best for homeowners who are looking for low-maintenance flooring. Regular mopping and cleaning are enough to maintain its elegant and natural appearance for years to come.
Hickory offers a great deal of colour variation, from light beige to reddish brown and white. These contrasting colour options make any space look unique and visually appealing.
Hickory is ideal for rooms that see a lot of foot traffic, as it is extremely durable.
Janka Rating: 1450
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Maple
Maple is one of the most preferred flooring choices among Toronto homeowners for its distinctive light colour, which varies from creamy white to light brown, and its fine grain pattern. It is also extremely dense and hard.
Maple hardwood flooring fits well in both modern and contemporary-style households as it offers a clean and consistent surface while presenting a natural look. Consider installing it in small rooms. Its light shade makes compact spaces appear larger and more spacious.
Janka Rating: 1820
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Brazilian Cherry
As per the Janka hardness test, Brazilian hardwood is one of the hardest hardwood species. It is incredibly durable and resistant to scratches and dents.
Its colour ranges from tan salmon to an orangey brown, which grows darker and richer with time. Hence, using it can transform a chilly, uninviting room into a warm, vibrant one.
You can choose to install Brazilian cherry hardwood flooring in hallways or public areas to increase your home’s resale value.
Janka Rating: 3500
Wood flooring is a popular choice among homeowners in Toronto. Investing in extremely hard and durable hardwood will let you reap its benefits for many years. Now that you know about the best hardwood flooring materials, including their hardness, you can choose one for your home. However, remember that it can be challenging to cut and install the hardest and strongest hardwood species. That’s why it is best to hire a professional for the proper installation process.
