What's the strongest, hardest, most durable wood out there?

When homeowners are looking for a wood that excels when it comes to the durability they will first want to turn to the wood's rating on the Janka Scale. The Janka Scale is used to measure the hardness of both domestic and exotic kinds of wood. The scale rates wood according to the amount of force that is needed to sink a 0.444" steel ball into the wood for at least half its diameter. Needless to say, those woods which score highly on the Janka Scale are particularly sought after when it comes to industrial and domestic use for the manufacture of furniture or flooring (for instance). The chances are that is you have domestic furnishings that score highly on this scale you will have made an investment that will last for generations. 

When it comes to sheer toughness there is one wood that stands head and shoulders above the competition - and this is Australian Buloke. This wood has a Janka hardness of 5,060 pounds per foot. The wood is commercially grown and is used for the manufacture of furniture and in the construction of homes. 

South America is home to one of the hardest woods in the world - Schinopsis Brasiliensis. This wood is harvested from a member of the Cashew family and is found primarily in Argentina and Paraguay. It is used extensively in construction. Another wood from South America that scores highly on the Janka scale is Schinopsis Balansae. 

When it comes to both construction and the manufacture of furniture Lignum vitae, can be found in the Caribbean and on the North coast of South America. This wood has been extensively exported to Europe for around 1500 years and commands extremely high prices. It is extensively used in the manufacture of cabinets, bed bases, and assorted other furniture items. Its toughness and resilience make it particularly suited for outdoor furniture. 

Snakewood is another popular choice for those looking for a wood that is incredibly durable and is almost impervious to insect damage. the wood is sourced from the coastal areas of South America and is so named due to its pattern. Coloration is red-brown with contrasting black or darker brown areas. It is a tremendously attractive wood that only gains is luster as it ages. Wood Whiz has more information regarding it. It has a multitude of uses - however, as far as furniture is concerned it is used in the manufacture of cabinets and seating for high-end use.

For those in the United States in search of a wood that is hard and incredibly durable the first choice must be Hickory. The attractive pale white coloration of this North American hardwood makes it a wonderful choice for this is search of either flooring material and high-end furniture. Colors vary from pale to reddish-brown and the wood is perfect for the manufacture of kitchen cabinets. It stains easily and can, therefore, fit the requirements of a number of decor styles.

Wood is among the most versatile and attractive materials when it comes to diverse uses from construction to furniture manufacture. Whether the homeowner chooses to import hardwoods from around the world - or stick to domestic varieties the choice of durable and long-lasting material is almost endless.

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