Some of the species used have changed over the years and now include unusual and exotic types such as:
Merbau - comes from the heart of the far east and is an extremely hard timber. Reddish brown when new the floor develops a lush mellow patina over time.
Doussie - is a tropical wood, it is golden brown with a somewhat reddish hue that deepens and becomes more even as time goes by. It has a good grain pattern. Doussies distinctive style pattern is an alternative for style conscious interior designers.
Beech - is a popular flooring material and has been for centuries. It creates a uniform atmosphere of restrained elegance and timeless beauty. Relatively easy to find and cheaper than the more exotic wood flooring on offer.
Maple - comes from the rugged forests of Canada and the plant is also a provider of the very popular maple syrup found in our supermarkets. Maple wood flooring imparts a velvety softness, yet with a touch of temperament provided by the grains reddish stripes. It is extremely hard and wear resistant.
If you are thinking of purchasing wood for your home or office try to take note of the so-called brinell hardness scale, which is a scale to decide the wood types ability to withstand impacts and scratches. Try to ask about this the next time you go shopping.