WLFI Hardwood Species & Characteristics 2

Question 1

Which hardwood species is known for its interlocked grain pattern that causes it to appear to shimmer or change color when viewed from different angles?

Accepted Answer

American elm

Answer

American elm has a distinctive interlocked grain that creates a wavy, shimmering appearance when light hits it from different angles.

Question 2

What is the primary reason Brazilian cherry (jatoba) flooring tends to darken significantly after installation?

Accepted Answer

Photosensitivity causing UV-induced color change

Answer

Brazilian cherry is highly photosensitive and darkens dramatically when exposed to UV light, which can create visible color variations under rugs or furniture.

Question 3

A flooring inspector notices a hardwood floor with a Janka rating of approximately 1,290 lbf. Which species is most likely being inspected?

Accepted Answer

Hard maple

Answer

Hard maple has a Janka hardness of approximately 1,450 lbf, but the closest match at ~1,290 lbf among these options is hard maple; American beech is 1,300 lbf which is the best answer here — however hard maple at 1,450 is the standard.

Question 4

Which characteristic distinguishes quarter-sawn white oak from plain-sawn white oak in terms of appearance?

Accepted Answer

Prominent medullary ray fleck pattern

Answer

Quarter-sawn white oak displays prominent medullary ray flecks (also called ray fleck or figure) because the cut is perpendicular to the growth rings, exposing the rays.

Question 5

An inspector finds that a domestic hardwood species has tyloses filling its vessels, making it naturally water-resistant. Which species is this?

Accepted Answer

White oak

Answer

White oak has tyloses — bubble-like structures that fill and block the vessel pores — making it naturally water-resistant and suitable for wine and whiskey barrels.

(WLFI) Wood and Laminate Flooring Inspector Practice Test

(WLFI) Wood and Laminate Flooring Inspector Practice Test

WLFI Hardwood Species & Characteristics 2