The hardest wood commonly used for kitchen cabinets is generally considered to be hickory. Hickory is a dense and durable hardwood with a Janka hardness rating of around 1,820 lbf (pounds-force) for its hardest species, making it one of the toughest and most resilient woods available for cabinetry.
The Janka hardness rating measures the resistance of a wood sample to wear and denting. A higher Janka rating indicates greater hardness and durability. Hickory's high Janka rating makes it highly resistant to impacts, scratches, and general wear, making it an excellent choice for kitchen cabinets that need to withstand daily use and potential abuse.
However, it's important to note that hickory's strength and hardness can also present challenges during processing and installation. Due to its density, it can be more difficult to work with than other woods, which may require skilled craftsmanship during cabinet fabrication. Additionally, hickory's unique grain patterns and color variations can add character to the cabinets but may not be everyone's preference.
Other hardwoods like hard maple, white oak, and cherry are also popular choices for durable kitchen cabinets, offering a good balance between hardness and aesthetics. When selecting wood for kitchen cabinets, consider not only its hardness but also its appearance, cost, and overall suitability for your kitchen's style and needs.