10 Common Types of Hardwood Flooring Options + Pictures

Exploring the Top Ten Hardwood Flooring Species

For homeowners seeking the perfect hardwood flooring, we've compiled a comprehensive list of the ten most prevalent species. This compilation encompasses both local hardwood varieties in the USA and exotic species, catering to diverse preferences.

1. Red and White Oak Hardwoods

   Oak hardwood, prevalent in the United States, offers two key species: red oak and white oak.

   • Red Oak: Renowned for its reddish-brown or grayish-brown hues, red oak features a prominent grain pattern. With a Janka rating of 1290, it is slightly softer than white oak.
   • White Oak: Exhibiting lighter tan, medium brown, and grayish-brown shades, white oak boasts a visible but smoother grain pattern. Its higher Janka hardness rating of 1360 renders it more durable, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.

2. Maple Hardwood

   Native to Northern USA and Canada, maple hardwood showcases a light-colored appearance, ranging from cream to beige and occasionally featuring a reddish tint. With a Janka hardness rating of 700-1450, maple is suitable for high-traffic areas due to its shock-absorbing properties. However, achieving even staining can be challenging, requiring the use of a pre-stain wood conditioner.

3. Hickory Hardwood

   Known for its knotted grain appearance, hickory is one of North America's hardest hardwoods. Featuring a color range from creamy white to golden brown, hickory's Janka hardness rating of 1820 underscores its durability and resistance to various elements. While more expensive, its rustic aesthetic and robust characteristics make it a preferred choice.

4. Ash Hardwood

   Similar in appearance to white oak, ash hardwood offers a lighter color palette of white, brown, and yellow tan. With a Janka hardness rating of 1320, ash is a durable and elastic flooring option, absorbing shocks and echoes. While more affordable than oak and hickory, ash's usage is constrained due to its status as an endangered species in the USA.

5. Brazilian Cherry Hardwood

   Also known as Jatoba, Brazilian cherry stands out as an exotic hardwood option with warm reddish-brown tones. Boasting a Janka hardness rating of 2350, it is hard and durable, resisting dents and scratches. Although more challenging to work with, its exotic appearance and relative affordability make it a popular choice.

6. Walnut Hardwood

   Often referred to as American or Black Walnut, this hardwood native to eastern and central USA features elegant deep, rich, and chocolate-colored hues. With a Janka hardness rating of 1010, walnut is suitable for medium to lower-traffic areas. Distinct from Brazilian Walnut, American Walnut provides an exquisite aesthetic at a more accessible cost.

7. Cherry Hardwood

   Cherry hardwood flooring, making a resurgence, is renowned for its warm, deep reddish-brown colors that mature over time. Offering a distinctive grain appearance, cherry hardwood adds a touch of sophistication to any space.

These diverse hardwood species cater to various preferences, each contributing unique characteristics to enhance the aesthetic and functionality of your home.

Read Also : Choosing White Oak vs. Red Oak Flooring: Their Differences