Janka Hardwood Rating System for Amish Furniture

Wood Hardness Scale for Countryside Offerings

Countryside Amish Furniture uses only the finest American hardwoods. If you're unsure about which real wood is right for your home, consider the wood species hardness. Generally, the harder the wood the less prone it is to wear and abrasion such as dings and scratches. 

While all wood products are known for their natural character and beauty, it is important to consider the level of durability by understanding the difference between various wood types. Because hardness is an important factor, and hardness varies for each species, the Janka Scale of Hardness is an excellent tool to help customers identify their appropriate wood selection.

The Janka Rating is the most commonly used test to access the relative hardness of wood. The higher the number on the scale, the harder the wood. The Janka test measures the amount of force required to embed a 0.444" steel ball into the wood to half of the ball’s diameter. In other words, the hardness rating is the wood’s resistance to indentation under a controlled force during testing.

Red Oak with an average Janka rating of 1290 is the industry benchmark for comparing the relative hardness of different wood species. This was chosen as the median standard because it is one of the most readily available hardwoods and a common choice for many homeowners.

Hickory tops our list as the hardest wood with a Janka rating of 1820, followed by Maple at 1450, and Quartersawn White Oak at 1360. Pine was included in the graph as a reference point, which falls noticeably below our offered hardwoods. 

So which wood should you choose for your Amish handcrafted furniture? Unfortunately, that part is up to you! While Hickory is extremely durable, the upscale look of Maple makes it a favorite in contemporary design. On the other hand, Oak offers a traditional style and a lot of charmed character. The reddish glow of Cherry deepens beautifully as it ages, and Quartersawn White Oak makes a beautiful Arts and Crafts or Mission piece of furniture.

After selecting the wood species that works for you, let Countryside create the beautiful Amish furniture sure to be around for generations. Get started by browsing our solid wood offerings.

*Janka ratings are not absolute and are best used to understand which woods are harder than others. Accordingly, our figures may differ from other Janka ratings.

Bailiegh Basham is Lead Sales & Marketing Strategist at Countryside Amish Furniture. She's been a team member since 2014. Bailiegh is deeply passionate about furniture design and home decor.