The Janka Rating measures the hardness of timber by calculating the force required to embed a steel ball halfway into the wood surface. The higher the rating, the more resistant the timber is to dents and wear. 

The Janka Rating helps homeowners compare timber species and determine which flooring is best suited to their lifestyle, traffic levels and furniture loads. 

For most homes, a Janka Rating above 6.0kN provides good durability and dent resistance while maintaining comfort underfoot.

Australian hardwoods such as Spotted Gum and Jarrah typically have higher Janka Ratings than many imported timber species, making them ideal for busy households. 

Yes. While French Oak is generally softer than Australian hardwoods, it offers excellent durability when paired with high-quality coatings and proper maintenance.

Not always. Hardness is only one factor. Stability, finish quality, appearance, maintenance and installation all contribute to the long-term performance of a timber floor. 

Harder timber species such as Spotted Gum, Jarrah and Blackbutt are popular choices for homes with pets due to their resistance to dents and everyday wear.

High-quality engineered timber can offer excellent durability and stability while providing the same natural timber surface as solid hardwood flooring. 

Yes. The Janka Rating measures dent resistance, not scratch resistance. Surface coatings play a significant role in protecting timber floors from scratches.