Botanical Classifications of Wood Flooring

Categorized into primarily two groups, wood floor coverings are either hardwoods or softwoods. Though the botanical names are reasonably true to form, relative hardness of wood floor coverings is measured by the Janka (or side) hardness test. Wood floor coverings are used for a myriad of uses, the botanical classification helps to determine the best type of wood for the intended application.

Hardwoods

Hardwood timber comes from deciduous trees that possess broad-leaves and shed them in the winter months. These types of wood grow slowly and can be very dense and hard.

The most common hardwood used for floor coverings are various species of oak. Other hardwood species that are used include Maple, Ash, Beech, Birch, Cherry, Walnut, Hickory and Pecan. Exotic (imported) hardwood species include Brazilian Cherry, Cypress, Jarrah, Mahogany and Teak.

Hardwood floor coverings wear quite well and with proper maintenance can withstand heavy traffic for long periods of time. Although these floors are considered hard they are not impervious to indentation, scratching or gouging.

Softwoods

Softwood timber comes from trees that keep their leaves (needles) all year long. Conifers are cone bearing type trees often called evergreens. This classification of trees grows rapidly in comparison to hardwoods. Uses for softwood are traditionally very low trafficked environments or as a sub floor for other floor coverings. Most softwood floors are hidden with carpet, linoleum or tile, but can look quite beautiful when they are exposed and refinished.

You will most likely find softwood floors such as fir, pine and spruce in residential areas and in older facilities where durability is not such a factor. Soft woods like the name implies are relatively easy to damage or scar, and do not hold up well to heavy traffic.

Regardless of the type and style of wood flooring you may have, FloorCare Specialists, has the skills and knowledge to properly clean, maintain and or restore your floor.  Contact us today for a free, on site evaluation of your wood floor care needs.

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Wood Floor Terminology

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