To determine the hardness of Endgrain Flooring products we compare the Compressive Strength Parallel to the Grain Test (Crushing Strength) measured in pounds per inch (PSI) with the Compressive Strength Perpendicular to the Grain Test (Janka Hardness) also measured in PSI. This then allows us to then come up with a mathematical figure called a Janka Rating.
Crushing Strength
Crushing Strength is the short term used for the Compressive Strength Parallel to the Grain Test. It is usually measured in pounds per inch. It is the ultimate strength attained under a compressing load applied parallel to the Grain to indicate the relative suitability of a species where the weight is being applied through the ends of the timber log. The measurement given is at the point before the timber fibres become damaged.
Janka Hardness
This is the ultimate strength attained under a compressing load applied across the grain to indicate the relative suitability of a species where the weight is being applied through the edge or side of the timber log/beam. The measurement given is at the point before the timber fibres become damaged. Janka Hardness is the short term for the Compressive Strength Perpendicular to the Grain Test. It is too measured in pounds per inch and is the standard test that we rely on the measured the hardness of standard edge grain solid timber flooring.
So how hard is Endgrain Flooring? Well we did some research and this is what we found:
| Species | Janka Rating (kN) | Compressive Strength Perpendicular to Grain (PSI) | Compressive Strength Parallel to Grain (PSI) |
| American White Ash | 5.8 | 1,320 | 7,410 |
| Victorian Ash | 4.9 | 1,100 | 9,140 |
We can then use this to calculate how hard Engrain Flooring by converting these figures from PSI into kN. This will then give you a good picture of how hard Endgrain Flooring is.
| Species | Compressive Strength Parallel to Grain (PSI) | Janka Rating (kN) of Endgrain
(converting PSI to kN) |
| American White Ash | 7,410 | 32.9 |
| Victorian ash | 9,140 | 40.6 |
For more information or technical advice on Endgrain Flooring, call the Endgrain Flooring specialist at HCT Floors today!
