end grain flooring  

This was used alot as...
This was used alot as industrial flooring in the past,its very tough.I am drawn to it in somewhat but it repels me in some way?Anyone know more...?

The
gym in my 'thirties Tudor high school was block; end grain of something like fir, pieces about 3 x 4 or 4 x 5 inches, as I recall. One time the roof leaked or something and a section expanded and rose in a wave; they waited and it dried out and recovered.
A very long-wearing floor, I would think -- and no splinters !

A similar story...
occured here in Milwaukee Wisconsin USA. We have a war memorial/ fine art museum designed in the 50's by Eero Saarinen. The floors are end grain cut off's. From time to time the floors would buckle up in substantially lofty waves - only to dry out and assume their original flat orientation. Oh by the way , there is now a stunning new addition by Santiago Calatrava - Google it and look at some images. You won't regret it!