How Durable Is Hardwood Flooring? Key Factors Explained
When it comes to hardwood flooring, durability is the result of several factors working together. One of the most common questions we hear is about finish quality and how it affects long-term performance, so let’s break it down.
Our Finishes: Built for Beauty and Strength
Every ADM engineered hardwood floor receives 6–9 coats of our trusted UV-cured lacquer, depending on the color.
- Some tones perform best with a slightly thinner lacquer build to enhance clarity and depth.
- Others require a fuller lacquer layer for added protection.
Regardless of the number of coats, the finish system itself never changes. We use the same high-grade, time-tested lacquer known for its durability, clarity, and versatility across all collections.
Durability Is More Than Just the Finish
A floor’s overall durability comes from two main components:
- Surface Durability
This includes both the wood’s texture and the lacquer coating. The advantage here: surface durability is fully controlled during manufacturing, ensuring consistent performance from the moment your floor is produced. - Wood Density
Density – measured by the Janka hardness scale – indicates how tightly the wood fibers are packed. Our most commonly used species, European White Oak, scores 1,360 lbf, making it a strong, stable, and highly reliable choice for residential spaces.
Why Some Online Reviews Seem Conflicting
Many mixed reviews online relate more to wood density than to finish quality. Deep indentations or scratches typically occur when a hard object makes forceful contact with the surface.
While white oak is durable, no natural wood species is completely resistant to indentation. This applies across the entire hardwood flooring industry, not just to ADM products.
You can minimize wear and surface damage by following a few simple care practices:
- Add felt or rubber pads to furniture legs
- Avoid dragging heavy items
- Keep debris off the floor
- Use rugs in high-traffic areas
About Dirt in Wire-Brushed Textures
Another common concern is debris collecting in textured or wire-brushed surfaces. This usually happens when dirt is tracked in from outside, when dirty mop water is used, or when shoes are worn indoors.
To reduce buildup, try:
- Choosing a smoother texture if you prefer low-maintenance surfaces
- Opting for colors that naturally conceal minor debris
- Cleaning with clean water (changing it out frequently)
- Reducing indoor shoe traffic
We’re here to ensure your floors stay beautiful for years to come. Every color and finish performs differently in real-world conditions. Let our team help you find the perfect floor and care advice for your needs. Find more care instructions here.