Glossary of Important Terms Related to your Hardwood Floor:
Average Length: Total length in linear feet within a bundle of flooring divided by the number of pieces. Typically, a higher grade has a longer average length while lower grades are shorter.
Grade(s) of Brazilian Wood Species: A system used to categorize specific characteristics of imported wood species. This is NOT the same grade system used for Oak. Brazilian grades are based on color variations, as well as grain patterns and overall visual consistency. The grading system reflects more the European system, offering a first, second and third grade. The first grade does not permit defects and has an average length of 3.0 to 3.5 foot minimum. There is also some more consistency in the appearance. The second grade allows more color variation and minor defects. The averages length may be as low as 2.5 feet. Third grades are more "Character" grades allowing minor defects and discoloration as well as an average length of 2.5 feet.
Janka Scale: A reference scale used to rate the hardness of a wood species. The hardness indicates the ability to resist wear, denting, and surface scratches. (Red oak has a Janka Scale rating of 1260 lbs/sq".)
Stability: Stability refers to the reaction of a wood species to changes in humidity and temperature (climate). A lower stability increases the chance of movement within the wood floor, example: shrinkage and swelling.