Woodworking & Forestry Science
Janka Wood Hardness Scale
Compare domestic and exotic woods by pounds of force (lbf). Choose the right lumber for hardwood flooring, heirloom dining tables, and butcher blocks.
Select A Timber / Wood Species:
Hardwood Species Profile
Red Oak
🔨 Janka Rating: 1290 lbf
Visual Grain:
Warm pinkish-wheat tones with prominent open porous grain
Durability Verdict:
The traditional standard benchmark for North American hardwood flooring (1290 lbf).
Best Woodworking Uses:
Hardwood flooring, kitchen cabinets, stair treads, robust workbench frames.
🌳 How Does the Janka Hardness Test Actually Work?
The Janka test measures the exact pounds of force (lbf) required to embed an 11.28 mm (0.444 inch) steel ball halfway into a wood plank. Red Oak (1,290 lbf) is the historical benchmark for residential hardwood floors. Anything below 1,000 lbf (like Pine or Cedar) easily dents under high heels or dog claws.