Walnut flooring has a wonderfully unique character and richness to it. It has a dark chocolate coloring that is a beautiful addition to any home whether it is left in its natural color or stained. The grain of walnut hardwood flooring is primarily straight, but can also present a swirling pattern. Walnut is one species of real wood flooring that gives an elegant look to any home.

The Janka scales measures the hardness of a wood with higher numbers indicating that a particular species is more resistance to wear. The Janka rating for Ipe Brazilian walnut is 3,684. North American walnut, also known as Black Walnut, has a Janka rating of 1,010.

Selecting Walnut Flooring

When selecting walnut flooring, consider the location where it will be installed. In a high traffic area, or an area with a lot of heavy furniture, you will want to get one of the harder species in order to ensure it’s durability. In low traffic areas, or areas with light furniture, you can opt for one of the softer varieties. For reference, oak wood, which is commonly used for wood flooring, has a Janka rating of 1,290 to 1,360 (depending on the variety).

If you do opt for one of the softer varieties in a high traffic area, consider using area rugs to protect your investment.

As with all real wood flooring, walnut hardwood flooring will vary greatly in price, so it will be in your best interest to shop around for the best deals.

A Quick Look at Walnut Flooring

• Rich chocolate color
• Mostly straight grain, but may have swirling patterns as well
• Available in Brazilian Walnut, Carribean Walnut, Peruvian Walnut and North American Walnut species
• Janka rating from 1,010 to 3,684 depending on species