Wood Flooring Types | Technical Properties of Hardwoods & Softwoods

Other Names: Triplochiton scleroxylon, Obeche, West African Cedar, Abachi, Wawa, Sambawawa, Ambara™
Description: Ambara™, our thermally modified Ayous has an even caramel color due to the thermal modification process. Naturally durable and incredibly stable, thermally modified Ayous is a fantastic choice for siding, rainscreen, trim boards, pergolas and more.
Janka Hardness: 285 pounds
Strength (MOR): 8,820 psi
Stiffness (MOE): 970 1000 psi
Density (KG/m3): 320
Tangential Shrinkage: 2.0%
Radial Shrinkage: 2.0%

Other Names: Hymenolobium excelsum, Para Angelim, Rocky Deck, Apitong, Brazilian Keruing, Angel's Heart
Description: Angelim Pedra, or Angel's Heart, varies from tan to yellow with dark red and brown vertical striping. For its beauty and durability, Angelim Pedra is a great combination of the two, boasting a Janka hardness rating of 1,720. It is also very resistant to dry-wood termites. Even with its beauty and durability, Angelim Pedra is very affordable, far surpassing the beauty of many hardwoods with a much larger price tag.
Janka Hardness: 1,720 pounds
Strength (MOR): 18,255 psi
Stiffness (MOE): 2,050 1000 psi
Density (KG/m3): 690
Tangential Shrinkage: 7.1%
Radial Shrinkage: 4.4%

Other Names: Dicorynia guianensis, Dicorynia paraensis, Angelica do Para, Tapaiuana, Barakaroeballi, Basralokus
Description: Heartwood reddish-brown-gray to reddish- or yellowish-brown sharply demarcated from narrow brownish-white sapwood. Texture medium; unusual subsurface luster; grain usually straight, sometimes somewhat interlocked; no distinctive odor or taste. Vessels are prominent as long brown lines on side grain producing an attractive figure. Silica content reported 0.20 to 1.70% and as high as 2.92%.
Janka Hardness: 1,290 pounds
Strength (MOR): 17,390 psi
Stiffness (MOE): 2,190 1000 psi
Density (KG/m3): 650
Tangential Shrinkage: 8.2%
Radial Shrinkage: 5.1%

Other Names: Dipterocarpus spp, Hagokhak, Panau, Dau, Yang, Eng, In, Heng, Keroeing, Kerunwing, Kruen, Kurjun, Klalar, Lagan, Bagac, Gurjun
Description: Keruing or Genuine Apitong is the name given to approximately 70 species of Dipterocarpus throughout Southeast Asia. It is a common specie of wood and has been used for truck trailer components since the 1960's. Apitong is one of the most popular exotic hardwood species that comes out of South East Asia. The name Apitong has its origin as the local Philippine name and encompasses the tree species from the genus Dipterocarpus. Due to Apitong’s unique mechanical and physical properties, it is commonly considered to have one of the best strength to weight ratio of any commercially harvested species. Recognizing the wonderfully unique properties of Apitong, many experienced and globally savvy buyers choose the value and reliability of Apitong and consider it the undisputed species of choice for truck and trailer flooring.
Janka Hardness: 1,270 pounds
Strength (MOR): 19,900 psi
Stiffness (MOE): 2,070 1000 psi
Density (KG/m3): 790
Tangential Shrinkage: 10.9%
Radial Shrinkage: 5.2%

Other Names: Shorea laevis, Anggelam, Balau, Benuas, Kumus, Penepak
Description: Bangkirai wood has a brownish yellow heartwood and a light brown sapwood. Its grain can be straight or interlocked, featuring a glossy and smooth texture. Bangkirai has great durability as well as great hardness, with Janka hardness rating of 1798. Bangkirai has long been used both for finer uses such as flooring, but for heavy duty uses as well, such as marine and heavy construction. A great all-rounder, Indonesian Bangkirai hardwood flooring is beautiful flooring choice.
Janka Hardness: 1,798 pounds
Strength (MOR): 20,950 psi
Stiffness (MOE): 2,900 1000 psi
Density (KG/m3): 930
Tangential Shrinkage: 9.3%
Radial Shrinkage: 4.2%

Other Names: Shorea guiso, Red Balau, Alan Batu, Selangan Batu, Mangaris, Membatu.
Description: Meranti Batu / Red Balau resembles the rich classic look of Genuine Mahogany. Batu / Red Balau heartwood ranges from a medium red to a deep red / brown and often has resin canals with white contents in concentric lines on end surfaces produce a warm and visually striking effect; the texture of Batu / Red Balau is moderately fine and grain is typically interlocked.
Janka Hardness: 2,100 pounds
Strength (MOR): 18,400 psi
Stiffness (MOE): 2,560 1000 psi
Density (KG/m3): 850
Tangential Shrinkage: 8.8%
Radial Shrinkage: 6.3%

Other Names: Hymenaea coubaril, Jatoba, Brazilian Cherry, Jutai, Locust, Copal, Azucar, Jatai
Description: Brazilian Cherry, also known as Jatoba, is one of the most popular exotic hardwoods. It’s not difficult to see why: Brazilian Cherry's breathtaking reddish-brown heartwood is lined by dark black streaks, giving it not only contrast but amazing depth as well. The heartwood will darken over time to a softer red-brown. Beyond its beauty, Brazilian Cherry is incredibly strong, with a Janka hardness rating of 2350. Silica is a natural mineral deposit commonly found in Brazilian Cherry, which can appear as a milky discoloration on the surface of the wood. This natural mineral can be identified by thin white lines in the grain, which go all the way through the piece. As the wood darkens due to exposure these affected areas remain lighter and typically present themselves in the form of blotches and streaks. We make every effort to eliminate silica from our Select & Clear grade flooring, however, it is not uncommon for some boards to make it past the inspection process. Because silica is a naturally occurring mineral within the tree it is not considered a defect and is not basis for a claim.
Janka Hardness: 2,350 pounds
Strength (MOR): 19,400 psi
Stiffness (MOE): 2,160 1000 psi
Density (KG/m3): 800
Tangential Shrinkage: 6.2%
Radial Shrinkage: 4.8%

Other Names: California Redwood
Description: California Redwood
Janka Hardness: 450 pounds
Strength (MOR): 8,950 psi
Stiffness (MOE): 1,220 1000 psi
Density (KG/m3): 450
Tangential Shrinkage: 4.7%
Radial Shrinkage: 2.4%

Other Names: Erisma uncinatum, Mahogany, Jaboty, Quarubarana, Mureillo, Cedrinho, Mureillo
Description: Cambara is a medium density wood from South America. More than just resilient, Cambara's medium luster and light reddish-brown heartwood make it a beautiful choice. Virtually knot-free, Cambara's close, straight grain gives it a pleasing uniform appearance. Cambara's natural durability often makes it a frequent choice for deckingl. With its agreeable tones, Cambara makes for a very decoratively versatile paneling or ceiling able to accompany a variety of colors schemes and furnishing styles.
Janka Hardness: 860 pounds
Strength (MOR): 12,800 psi
Stiffness (MOE): 1,640 1000 psi
Density (KG/m3): 650
Tangential Shrinkage: 9.1%
Radial Shrinkage: 4.2%

Other Names: Dipterix odorata, Southern Chestnut, Brazilian Teak
Description: Cumaru, commonly called Brazilian Chestnut, is a tough and dense wood imported from Brazil that has an irregular, somewhat interlocked grain and wavy, course texture. Because of its density, it is very resistant to termites and decay. Cumaru's heartwood is a medium brown with distinctive tan shades that compliment one another in with tonal warmth to create a relaxing feeling that's great to come home to.
Janka Hardness: 3,200 pounds
Strength (MOR): 24,800 psi
Stiffness (MOE): 3,050 1000 psi
Density (KG/m3): 1,080
Tangential Shrinkage: 8.4%
Radial Shrinkage: 5.4%

Other Names: Shorea negrosensis, Aprit, Aruas, Babanganon, Philippine mahogany, Dark red seraya, Red lauan, Tampalasaha
Description: Dark red meranti (DRM) is found in the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia. It is a very popular wood among architects and designers because if its high luster and good machining properties. In Europe, DRM has long been used for the production of sophisticated joinery products, such as doors, window frames, and doors. DRM sports a great mixture of yellow, white, and red tones creating a very warming combination of colors.
Janka Hardness: 780 pounds
Strength (MOR): 12,700 psi
Stiffness (MOE): 1,770 1000 psi
Density (KG/m3): 730
Tangential Shrinkage: 6.6%
Radial Shrinkage: 3.4%

Other Names: Pseudotsuga menziesii, Blue Douglas-fir, British Columbia pine, British Colubian pine, Coast Douglas-fir, Colorado Douglas-fir, Colorado Pino real, Colorado real, Columbian Pine, Douglas spruce, Inland Douglas-fir, Interior Douglas-fir, Oregon Douglas-fir, Oregon pine, Puget Sound pine, Red fir, Rocky Mountain Douglas-fir, Yellow fir
Description: Douglas Fir has the highest strength to weight ratio of any wood species. Primarily found in the western US and Canada, Douglas Fir is frequently use for dimension lumber in lower grades, and for interior finish work in upper grades. Douglas Fir clears are renowned for their strength, durability, and ability to stand up to the elements. In addition to its strength, Douglas Fir has rich coloring with the heartwood aging to a dark tan-red color and the sap wood remaining light tan. Vertical grain, clear Douglas Fir is widely considered to be one of the finest materials available for trim, mouldings, doors, windows, exposed beams, ceilings and paneling. Douglas Fir CVG flooring has been used throughout the US since the 1800's and is often found in classic historic homes.
Janka Hardness: 710 pounds
Strength (MOR): 12,400 psi
Stiffness (MOE): 1,950 1000 psi
Density (KG/m3): 530
Tangential Shrinkage: 7.6%
Radial Shrinkage: 4.8%

Other Names: Apuleia leiocarpa, Grapia, Almendrillo Amarillo, Muirajuba, Cobre, Ana, Ana caspi, Gateado, Mapurite, Garapa Gold
Description: Garapa is a South American wood with yellow to brown-yellow heartwood. Garapa decking has a medium luster, an interlocked grain, and a fine texture that accentuates the wood's rich gold and brown tones. The wood is also rated with a solid Janka hardness rating of 1,700, about 25% harder than Red Oak. Rated as durable and resistant to fungi and insects, Garapa exterior decking is an attractive and versatile option that is as resilient as it is beautiful.
Janka Hardness: 1,700 pounds
Strength (MOR): 18,100 psi
Stiffness (MOE): 1,835 1000 psi
Density (KG/m3): 830
Tangential Shrinkage: 10.0%
Radial Shrinkage: 6.5%

Other Names: Swietenia macrophylla, Honduran Mahogany, Mogno, Caoba, Acajou, Aguano, Mara
Description: Genuine mahogany is widely distributed throughout Central and South America. It has been highly valued for its woodworking qualities and natural rich red-brown beauty since traders first began shipping it to Europe in the 16th Century. It is a highly stable wood, extremely durable, easy to work with and a first choice of craftsmen for flooring, furniture, wall and ceiling paneling and high-end cabinetry. This is the original and true Mahogany wood.
Janka Hardness: 800 pounds
Strength (MOR): 11,460 psi
Stiffness (MOE): 1,450 1000 psi
Density (KG/m3): 650
Tangential Shrinkage: 4.1%
Radial Shrinkage: 2.5%

Other Names: Pecan Carya spp, Bitter pecan, Hickory, Pecan hickory, Sweet pecan, Nutmeg Hickory, Bitternut, Bitternut hickory, Swamp hickory, Water hickory, Wild pecan, Bitter pecan Nogal morado, Nuez encarcelada
Description: The distinctive and numerous shades of brown inherent in a Hickory hardwood floor create remarkable contrasts that, along with its intricate grain patterns, are nothing short of spectacular. Not only is Hickory flooring naturally striking in the aesthetic sense, but it is also the hardest of all North American woods. Hickory flooring has been admired for quite some time in the U.S. and abroad for both its beauty and strength, being traditionally used for decorative paneling and furniture veneer as well as for tool handles and pallets. Because of this combination of durability and powerful color contrasts, Hickory makes a versatile and attractive flooring material well-suited for any style of home.
Janka Hardness: 1,820 pounds
Strength (MOR): 13,700 psi
Stiffness (MOE): 1,730 1000 psi
Density (KG/m3): 620
Tangential Shrinkage: 8.9%
Radial Shrinkage: 4.9%

Other Names: Handroanthus spp, formerly Tabebuia spp, Brazilian Ebony, Brazilian Walnut, Ironwood, Irontree, Tajibo, Guayacan, Lapacho, Arcwood, Extreme Ipe, ExtremeIpe
Description: Ipe is an incredibly durable wood. Its dense cell structure serves as a natural deterrent to insects, decay, and molds. Because of this natural resilience Ipe is often the first choice for decking because of its almost unparalleled ability to stand up to the elements. More than just durable, Ipe is also very pleasing to the eye. Its heartwood is light to dark olive brown with contrasting yellowish-grey or grey brown tones accompanying it. With a Class A fire rating, Ipe occupies the same class of fire-retardant materials as steel. For durability, safety, and beauty, Ipe makes an excellent choice.
Janka Hardness: 3,680 pounds
Strength (MOR): 25,400 psi
Stiffness (MOE): 3,140 1000 psi
Density (KG/m3): 1,050
Tangential Shrinkage: 8.0%
Radial Shrinkage: 6.6%

Other Names: Koompassia spp,Thongbueng, Gemaris, Hampas, Nyari, Kempas rawang, Impas (Sabah), Mengris (Sarawak),Tualangun
Description: Kempas is generally imported from Asia and grows in Malaysia and Indonesia. The heartwood is a fairly consistent color which ranges from orange-red to reddish-brown with subtly contrasting yellow to pale white tones. The heartwood will darken with time. Kempas is somewhat similar to Cumaru from Brazil but does not have as much definition in the grain.
Janka Hardness: 1,750 pounds
Strength (MOR): 17,700 psi
Stiffness (MOE): 2,690 1000 psi
Density (KG/m3): 880
Tangential Shrinkage: 7.4%
Radial Shrinkage: 6.0%

Other Names: Acer spp, Ahorn, Erable, European maple, Field maple, Bird’s Eye maple, Black maple, Canadian maple, Curly maple, Fiddleback maple, Hard maple, Rock maple, Sugar maple, White maple, Bigleaf maple, Broadleaf maple, Oregon maple, Pacific Coast maple, Western maple, Silver maple, Soft maple, White maple, Ashleaf maple, Boxelder, Manitoba maple
Description: Maple is a bright, attractive and classic hardwood standard in the United States, celebrated as the state tree of Wisconsin, Vermont, West Virginia, and New York. The light, pale tone of maple accentuates the light of any room, both brightening the room while simultaneously making it appear more expansive. The reddish-brown heartwood is accompanied by tones that are sometimes tinged with reddish-brown as well. It has a fine, uniform texture and is incredibly strong and shock resistant, with particular resistance to abrasion and wear, making maple a classic beauty that you will be able to enjoy in your home for years to come.
Janka Hardness: 1,450 pounds
Strength (MOR): 10,700 psi
Stiffness (MOE): 1,450 1000 psi
Density (KG/m3): 755
Tangential Shrinkage: 9.9%
Radial Shrinkage: 4.8%

Other Names: Manilkara bidentata, Chicozapote, Ausubo, Nispero, Beefwood, Bolletri, Balata Rouge, Paraju, Bulletwood
Description: Brazilian Redwood, also known as Massaranduba, is a gorgeous and durable hardwood whose durability makes it a frequent choice not only for flooring but decking as well. The naturally beautiful heartwood can range from light to dark brownish-red, with a grain that can be straight, somewhat wavy, or interlocked. Brazilian Redwood is also very easy to maintain, and it's Janka hardness rating of 3,190 ensures that it will stand up just as well against impacts in the short term as it will against decay in the long term.
Janka Hardness: 3,190 pounds
Strength (MOR): 29,200 psi
Stiffness (MOE): 3,450 1000 psi
Density (KG/m3): 1,000
Tangential Shrinkage: 9.4%
Radial Shrinkage: 6.3%

Other Names: Kwila, Ipil, Malacca Teak, Mirabow, Moluccan Ironwood
Description: Merbau is a beautiful exotic hardwood that grows in the forests of Southeast Asia as well as throughout the South Pacific region. When freshly cut the color of the wood is yellow to orangish-brown, but upon exposure will darken to a rich dark brown to reddish-brown color much like Brazilian Cherry. One unique characteristic of Merbau is the yellow flecks, or mineral deposits, which can be seen in many of the pieces. These flecks will become more subtle over time, but when initially finished the wood appears to be flecked with gold.
Janka Hardness: 1,840 pounds
Strength (MOR): 20,700 psi
Stiffness (MOE): 2,465 1000 psi
Density (KG/m3): 750
Tangential Shrinkage: 4.6%
Radial Shrinkage: 2.7%

Other Names: Peltogyne spp, Amaranth, Nazareno, Pau Roxo, Bois Violet, Barabou
Description: The breathtaking coloring that has made Purpleheart world famous occurs when its freshly cut brown heartwood is exposed to the air, rapidly turning deep purple. Over time, prolonged exposure to light causes the heartwood to slowly transition from purple to a rich, dark brownish-purple shade. Purpleheart also possesses complimentary tones that can range from pale pink to whitish-grey. Purpleheart is very popular not only because of its amazing color, but also for its high level of durability. This wood serves as stunning decorative accent to any room and is sure to catch the admiring eye of any visitor.
Janka Hardness: 1,860 pounds
Strength (MOR): 21,300 psi
Stiffness (MOE): 2,420 1000 psi
Density (KG/m3): 1,050
Tangential Shrinkage: 6.1%
Radial Shrinkage: 3.2%

Other Names: Quercus spp, American red oak, Black oak, Canadian red oak, Gray oak, Northern red oak, Southern red oak, Scarlet oak, Spanish oak
Description: The red-tinged brown heartwood and white tones of Red Oak creates a subtle but resonant contrast that makes this wood uniquely enjoyable. A consistent grain adds to the grace of the overall presentation of the wood. All of these elements make Red Oak a colorfully multifaceted yet understated beauty that, much like White Oak, is aesthetically complimentary to any style of home.
Janka Hardness: 1,290 pounds
Strength (MOR): 14,300 psi
Stiffness (MOE): 1,850 1000 psi
Density (KG/m3): 780
Tangential Shrinkage: 8.6%
Radial Shrinkage: 4.0%

Other Names: Astronium fraxinifolium, Muiracatiara, Cuta Tigre, Bois de Zebre, Bossona, Goncalo Alves, Mura, Kingwood, Urunday-para, Zebrawood, Zorrowood
Description: Tigerwood is a highly distinctive exotic wood with vibrant reddish-brown tones and prominent black striping that varies in thickness from fine strokes to thick contours. Its interlocked grain is also wavy and irregular, complimenting the wood’s dynamic appearance. Tigerwood is ranked among the more durable hardwoods with a Janka hardness rating of 1850, making Tigerwood a visually striking floor that lasts.
Janka Hardness: 1,850 pounds
Strength (MOR): 20,120 psi
Stiffness (MOE): 2,390 1000 psi
Density (KG/m3): 930
Tangential Shrinkage: 7.6%
Radial Shrinkage: 4.0%

Other Names: Thuja plicata, Cypress, Oregon Cedar, Giant Cedar, Arborvitae, British Columbia cedar, Canoe cedar, Pacific red cedar, Shinglewood, Giant arborvitae
Description: Western Red Cedar is a popular softwood that sports cozy colors ranging from soft burnt sienna to creamy yellows. These tones give the wood a very rustic feel that makes it seem as if it specifically created to reflect the warm glow of a nearby fireplace. Western Red Cedar is also known for having an even and fine grain. Great for creating a cozy country look, Western Red Cedar is sure to add a feeling of warmth and comfort to any room.
Janka Hardness: 350 pounds
Strength (MOR): 7,500 psi
Stiffness (MOE): 1,110 1000 psi
Density (KG/m3): 410
Tangential Shrinkage: 5.0%
Radial Shrinkage: 2.4%

Other Names: Quercus spp, Arizona oak, Stave oak, white oak, Swamp white oak, Brewer oak, Garry oak, Oregon oak, California white oak, Valley oak, Valley white oak,
Description: White Oak is full of light tones that give a crisp, clean feel. It has long been a versatile standard in homes across the U.S. because of its universally complimentary combination of deep grayish-brown heartwood and pale white tones. White Oak is also known for its durability, strength, and resistance to wear, serving as planking for boats and even mine timbers. This elegant wood’s amazing decorative flexibility makes it an outstanding floor for all settings and occasions. White Oak comes in a variety of colors and stains to suit any decor.
Janka Hardness: 1,360 pounds
Strength (MOR): 15,200 psi
Stiffness (MOE): 1,780 1000 psi
Density (KG/m3): 900
Tangential Shrinkage: 7.2%
Radial Shrinkage: 4.2%

Technical Information & Scientific Properties for Common Species of Hardwood & Softwood

Ambara

Angelim Pedra

Angelique, Basralocus

Apitong, Keruing

Bangkirai, Yellow Balau

Batu, Red Balau

Brazilian Cherry, Jatoba

California Redwood

Cambara Mahogany

Cumaru, Brazilian Teak

Dark Red Meranti

Douglas Fir

Garapa, Golden Teak

Genuine Mahogany

Hickory

Ipe, Brazilian Walnut

Kempas

Maple

Massaranduba, Brazilian Redwood

Merbau

Purpleheart

Red Oak

Tigerwood

Western Red Cedar

White Oak