Mesquite

Handloggers’ Opinion
Mesquite is perfect for a southwest feel full of high desert, sunset ambience. We do not sell much of it (probably because it is not well known on the west coast) but the few floors we have sold are absolutely gorgeous!
Appearance
Color: Light brown to dark reddish brown.
Grain: High in character, with ingrown bark and mineral streaks. Most commonly used in flooring as end-grain block, which has small irregular cracks radiating across the grain.
Variations within species and grades: One grade; moderate color variations.
Properties
Hardness/Janka: 2345; 82% harder than Northern red oak.
Dimensional Stability: Excellent (change coefficient .00129; 65% more stable than red oak).
Durability: Dense and very strong. End-grain cut has excellent resistance to abrasion and shock.
Workability
Sawing/Machining: Very good machining qualities.
Sanding: Plainsawn can be sanded to a smooth surface; end-grain requires #16 grit sandpaper to flatten.
Nailing: Good holding ability, but splits easily.
Finishing: No known problems.
Comments: End-grain block usage results in a hard, high-wear surface. Produces only small size boards.

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"Wood Species Used in Wood Flooring, publication A200, ©1994" provided with permission and courtesy of the National Wood Flooring Association.