Brazilian Cherry Hardwood Floors

If you're looking to elevate your home's style and durability, Brazilian cherry hardwood floors might just be the perfect choice. Known for their rich reddish-brown hues and striking grain patterns, these floors add elegance to any space. Beyond aesthetics, Brazilian cherry is incredibly resilient, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.

However, investing in Brazilian cherry comes with a price. On average, you can expect to pay between $5 to $10 per square foot, depending on quality and installation. While it’s a bit more expensive than other hardwood options, the long-lasting beauty and strength make it a worthwhile investment for your home. Explore how Brazilian cherry can transform your living spaces while adding value to your property.

Overview of Brazilian Cherry Hardwood Floors

Brazilian Cherry, known as Jatoba, is a hardwood originating from Brazil's rainforests. It's classified as a legume, specifically Hymenaea courbaril.

Species and Origin

Brazilian Cherry isn't related to the cherry family. This unique wood species thrives in tropical environments, contributing to its distinctive characteristics.

Hardness and Durability

Brazilian Cherry boasts exceptional hardness, with a Janka hardness rating of 2350 to 3500. This ensures high durability, making it resistant to scratches, dents, and wear. Additionally, its hardness enhances fire resistance and bug resistance.

Appearance

Brazilian Cherry features a striking red or salmon color with darker streaks. The wood's unfinished state displays a creamy pinkish-red hue, transforming into a rich reddish-brown with streaked tones after staining and finishing.

• Solid Hardwood: Available in sizes like 3.25 inches and 5 inches wide, and 0.75 inches thick, Brazilian Cherry offers various options for installation.
• Engineered Hardwood: This type combines a thin veneer of Brazilian Cherry with plywood for durability and stability, suitable for environments with fluctuating humidity.

Brazilian Cherry hardwood floors enhance homes with beauty and strength, making them an ideal choice for both aesthetic and functional purposes.

Benefits of Brazilian Cherry Hardwood Floors

Brazilian Cherry hardwood floors offer numerous advantages, particularly in durability and aesthetic appeal. Discover what makes this flooring choice exceptional.

Durability and Strength

Brazilian Cherry hardwood boasts remarkable durability and strength, indicated by its impressive Janka hardness rating of 2350 to 3500. This ranking makes it one of the hardest wood types available, ideal for high-traffic areas in homes. Its resistance to scratches, dents, and other damage safeguards your investment. The wood’s natural oils provide added protection against bugs, mites, and spores, potentially alleviating allergy issues. Brazilian Cherry’s high density allows it to endure heavy foot traffic and various environmental conditions, ensuring resistance to fire and pests as well.

Aesthetic Appeal

Brazilian Cherry hardwood flooring is renowned for its rich, deep red hues that deepens over time. This natural color development enhances the elegance of any room, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The wood's unique grain patterns add character and depth, making it a visually striking choice for homeowners.

Installation Process

Installing Brazilian cherry hardwood floors involves careful preparation and precise techniques to ensure a successful outcome. Follow these key steps for a seamless installation process.

Preparation Steps

1. Measurement and Material Calculation:
   Measure the room's length and width to calculate the square footage. Add 10-15% to the total for waste, accommodating for any mistakes or cuts.
2. Acclimation:
   Acclimate the Brazilian cherry hardwood flooring in the installation room for 24 to 48 hours. For optimal results, allow 1-2 weeks for the wood to adjust to the room's temperature and humidity, which prevents warping after installation.
3. Clearing the Room:
   Clear the space of all furniture, fixtures, and baseboards before installation begins. This ensures a clean working environment.
4. Subfloor Preparation:
   Check that the subfloor is smooth, clean, and devoid of nails or tacks. Verify that it's not warped or buckled, as these imperfections can affect the final flooring installation.

1. Laying Felt Paper:
   Lay felt paper across the entire subfloor to serve as an underlayment. This paper helps absorb sound and provides a barrier against moisture.
2. Plank Installation:
   Begin installing the planks from the longest wall of the room, working towards the opposite side. Maintain a consistent expansion gap of roughly 1/4 inch along the walls for proper movement of the wood.
3. Securing the Planks:
   Use a flooring nailer or stapler to secure the Brazilian cherry planks. Ensure proper spacing along the edges and follow manufacturer guidelines for fastener placement.
4. Finishing Touches:
   After all planks are installed, reattach baseboards and any transitions. Clean the floor to remove dust and debris, maintaining the beauty of your new Brazilian cherry hardwood floors.

Maintenance Tips

Maintaining Brazilian cherry hardwood floors ensures their longevity and beauty. Implementing proper care strategies protects your investment and keeps your floors looking stunning.

Cleaning Guidelines

• Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations for cleaning your wood floor. Knowing the type of finish on your floor is crucial for selecting the appropriate cleaning solution.
• Sweep or vacuum your floor regularly to remove dust, dirt, and debris. Use a soft-bristled broom, a dust mop, or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to prevent scratches.
• Damp mop with a manufacturer-approved cleaner every few weeks. Ensure the mop is well-wrung to avoid excess moisture, which can damage the wood.
• Never use vinegar or ammonia-based solutions, as they can dull the finish and damage the wood surface.

• Use protective pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches. Opt for plastic or fabric-faced glides that absorb weight and reduce friction.
• Place mats and throw rugs at doorways and high-traffic areas to minimize wear. These items trap grit, dirt, and sand, preventing them from scratching your floors.
• When moving heavy furniture, protect your flooring. Slip a piece of cloth or a covering over each leg, or use a heavy sock or half of a milk carton to avoid direct contact with the Wood.

Cost Considerations

When installing Brazilian Cherry hardwood floors, several cost factors require your attention.

Materials Cost

Brazilian Cherry hardwood stands out as an exotic wood. This classification generally increases its price compared to domestic hardwood species. The material cost for Brazilian Cherry hardwood floors ranges from $9 to $13 per square foot.

Labor Cost

Labor costs play a substantial role in the overall expense. Installation labor for Brazilian Cherry hardwood floors typically ranges from $4 to $8 per square foot. The complexity of the installation and local labor rates heavily influence these figures. Labor expenses can account for 50% to 70% of the total cost.

Total Installed Cost

Considering both materials and labor, the total cost for Brazilian Cherry hardwood floors ranges from $13 to $20 per square foot. These figures encompass the significant investment required for both the wood itself and the skilled labor necessary for installation.

Conclusion

Investing in Brazilian cherry hardwood floors can transform your space with their stunning beauty and unmatched durability. These floors not only elevate your home’s aesthetic but also stand the test of time, making them a smart choice for any high-traffic area.

With proper installation and maintenance, you’ll enjoy their rich colors and unique grain patterns for years to come. Remember to follow care tips to preserve their elegance and resilience. Ultimately, Brazilian cherry hardwood floors are more than just a flooring option; they’re a long-lasting investment that adds value and character to your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of Brazilian cherry hardwood floors?

Brazilian cherry hardwood floors offer numerous benefits, including exceptional durability and stunning aesthetics. With a Janka hardness rating of 2350 to 3500, they resist scratches and dents, making them ideal for high-traffic areas. Additionally, their rich reddish-brown color and unique grain patterns enhance any home’s elegance, while natural oils provide resistance to bugs and allergens.

How much does Brazilian cherry hardwood flooring cost?

The cost of Brazilian cherry hardwood flooring typically ranges from $5 to $10 per square foot for the material alone. When factoring in labor, the total installation cost can be between $13 and $20 per square foot. These prices reflect its classification as an exotic wood, contributing to its value.

What is the installation process for Brazilian cherry flooring?

Installing Brazilian cherry flooring involves several key steps: measure the area and calculate your material needs, acclimate the wood, clear the installation space, and prepare the subfloor. Use felt paper as an underlayment, secure planks with a flooring nailer, and ensure proper expansion gaps. Following these steps helps achieve a successful installation.

How do I maintain Brazilian cherry hardwood floors?

To maintain Brazilian cherry hardwood floors, follow the manufacturer's cleaning guidelines. Regularly sweep or vacuum to remove debris and damp mop with a suitable cleaner. Avoid vinegar or ammonia-based products, which can damage the finish. Use protective pads under furniture and place mats in heavy traffic areas to prevent scratches.

Where does Brazilian cherry wood come from?

Brazilian cherry wood, also known as Jatoba, originates from the rainforests of Brazil. It is classified as a legume and is not related to the cherry family. This tropical wood thrives in warm environments, contributing to its unique characteristics, including rich color and robust durability.