Hardwood flooring continues to be a timeless and valuable investment for homeowners, offering natural beauty, longevity, and a touch of luxury. But not all hardwoods are created equal. From strength and style to price and sustainability, each species brings something different to the table.
In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the finest hardwood flooring options, explaining their unique characteristics, advantages, and why you might choose each one. We’ll also share insights on top brands, helping you make a well-informed decision whether you’re renovating a Brooklyn brownstone or building a new home elsewhere.
The Best Types of Hardwood Flooring (and Why You Should Choose Them)
1. Red Oak – The Classic All-Rounder
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Janka Hardness Rating: 1290
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Color: Light to medium reddish-brown
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Price Range: $5–$11 per sq ft
Why Buy Red Oak?
Red oak is the most commonly used hardwood in the U.S. and for good reason. It strikes a balance between affordability, durability, and aesthetic versatility. Its prominent grain hides scratches and dents well, making it great for high-traffic areas like living rooms and hallways.
Ideal For: Traditional homes, busy households, and DIYers.
2. White Oak – Durable with a Modern Touch
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Janka Hardness Rating: 1360
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Color: Light brown to gray tones
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Price Range: $6–$12 per sq ft
Why Buy White Oak?
White oak is slightly harder than red oak and offers a more contemporary, neutral look. It’s also naturally water-resistant due to its closed grain, making it an excellent choice for kitchens or entryways.
Ideal For: Modern interiors, minimalists, and homes where water resistance is a bonus.
3. Maple – Sleek and Durable
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Janka Hardness Rating: 1450
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Color: Pale cream to light reddish-brown
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Price Range: $6–$14 per sq ft
Why Buy Maple?
Maple is extremely hard and resists wear, making it a favorite in sports courts—and homes with kids and pets. Its smooth, understated grain gives it a clean, refined look.
Ideal For: Contemporary spaces, high-traffic areas, and those seeking a clean aesthetic.
4. Hickory – Tough and Rustic
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Janka Hardness Rating: 1820
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Color: Varied tones of light cream to rich brown
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Price Range: $4–$7 per sq ft
Why Buy Hickory?
Hickory is one of the hardest domestic woods, known for its strength and bold grain pattern. Its natural color variation adds rustic charm and personality to any room.
Ideal For: Farmhouse-style homes, families with pets, and areas that take a beating.
5. Cherry – Warm and Elegant
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Janka Hardness Rating: 950
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Color: Rich reddish-brown that darkens over time
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Price Range: $7–$15 per sq ft
Why Buy Cherry?
Cherry wood is softer than some hardwoods, but its rich, warm tones bring a luxurious feel to any space. It develops a beautiful patina as it ages, making it better with time.
Ideal For: Bedrooms, formal living rooms, and elegant interiors.
6. Walnut – Rich, Dark Luxury
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Janka Hardness Rating: 1010
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Color: Deep chocolate brown
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Price Range: $8–$15 per sq ft
Why Buy Walnut?
Walnut is prized for its sophisticated dark hues and straight grain. Though softer than some other options, it’s perfect for spaces where visual impact matters most.
Ideal For: High-end living rooms, libraries, and stylish apartments.
7. Ash – Light and Lively
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Janka Hardness Rating: 1320
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Color: Pale beige to light brown
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Price Range: $6–$13 per sq ft
Why Buy Ash?
Ash is resilient and flexible, with a similar grain to oak but a brighter tone. It’s also excellent for absorbing shock, which is why it’s used in tools and baseball bats.
Ideal For: Bright, Scandinavian-style interiors and active households.
8. Bamboo – Eco-Friendly and Ultra-Strong
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Janka Hardness Rating: 3000+ (strand-woven)
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Color: Varies by processing
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Price Range: $5–$12 per sq ft
Why Buy Bamboo?
Though technically a grass, bamboo behaves like a hardwood. It’s incredibly sustainable and durable, especially the strand-woven variety, which outperforms most traditional hardwoods.
Ideal For: Eco-conscious homeowners, modern design lovers, and allergy sufferers.
Factors to Consider Before You Buy
- Hardness (Durability): Use the Janka scale to choose the right durability level for your lifestyle.
- Color and Grain: Lighter woods brighten spaces; darker tones add warmth and luxury.
- Cost: Include not just the material price but also installation and maintenance.
- Maintenance: Softer woods like cherry require more upkeep than hickory or maple.
- Sustainability: Look for FSC-certified options or reclaimed woods if eco-friendliness matters.
What’s the Finest Hardwood for You?
The “finest” hardwood isn’t just the hardest or the most expensive—it’s the one that aligns with your lifestyle, aesthetic, and budget.
- Want timeless and durable? Go with white oak or maple.
- Prefer rich, elegant interiors? Cherry or walnut is your best bet.
- Need something pet- and kid-proof? Hickory is your hero.
- Looking for green alternatives? Try bamboo or reclaimed wood from brands like K.D. Woods.
Whatever your choice, investing in quality hardwood flooring can transform your space—and add lasting value to your home.
Parting Notes for the Finest Hardwood
So, there we have it, folks! We don’t have a top contender because there’s a buyer for every type of hardwood option out there.
If you’re looking to make your search less overwhelming, head on over to Floorika Fine Hardwood. We’ve got plenty of hardwood floors and hardwood floor refinishing options to choose from. Get in touch with us today, and we’ll help you make the best decision for your home for years to come!
