Exploring the World of Brazilian Cherry Wood Flooring
Welcome to the fascinating world of Brazilian cherry wood flooring! In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the various aspects of this beautiful and durable hardwood material. Whether you are a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a homeowner looking to upgrade your floors, Brazilian cherry wood offers a stunning option that is sure to enhance the beauty of your living space.
The Allure of Brazilian Cherry Wood
First and foremost, it is important to note that Brazilian cherry wood is not actually derived from the cherry tree family. Instead, it belongs to the legume species known as Hymenaea courbaril. This exotic hardwood is also referred to as jatoba, locust, or courbaril. Originating from the lush rainforests of Brazil, Brazilian cherry trees can reach impressive heights of 100 to 130 feet.
The common name “Brazilian cherry” is a clever marketing tactic that highlights the wood’s rich, fiery red hues. While its popularity may have waned over time, Brazilian cherry remains a sought-after choice for flooring due to its exceptional strength and durability. In fact, with a Janka hardwood rating of 2350 (compared to white oak’s rating of 1360), Brazilian cherry is renowned for its resilience and longevity.
Characteristics of Brazilian Cherry Wood
- Brazilian cherry wood is known for its striking red or salmon-colored appearance, often featuring darker streaks that add to its visual appeal.
- Solid Brazilian cherry hardwood planks are challenging to install and are best left to professionals. However, engineered wood options provide a more accessible alternative for DIY enthusiasts.
- This hardwood material accepts stains and finishes exceptionally well, making it a popular choice for flooring projects.
- Despite concerns about its sustainability due to deforestation in the Amazon, Brazilian cherry remains a viable option for homeowners seeking a robust and visually captivating flooring solution.
Types of Brazilian Cherry Wood Flooring
Solid Hardwood Flooring
- Solid Brazilian cherry hardwood flooring is available in standard sizes, offering exceptional value and durability.
- For those seeking wider planks, there are options for wide-plank Brazilian cherry hardwood as well.
Laminate Flooring
- Brazilian cherry laminate flooring provides a cost-effective alternative to real wood, featuring a convincing photographic rendition that mimics the appearance of Brazilian cherry.
- While laminate flooring may lack the solidity of real wood, it remains a budget-friendly option for homeowners.
Engineered Wood Flooring
- Engineered Brazilian cherry wood flooring combines the affordability of laminate with the authenticity of real wood.
- By using a thin veneer of real wood applied to a stable plywood base, engineered wood flooring offers a sustainable and easy-to-install option for flooring projects.
Prefinished Flooring
- Prefinished Brazilian cherry flooring provides convenience and a uniform finish for your flooring project.
- While prefinished flooring may be more susceptible to damage during installation, the overall result is a professionally finished look.
Exploring Brazilian Cherry Wood Brands
Bellawood
- Bellawood, a popular brand from Lumber Liquidators, offers a range of Brazilian cherry flooring options.
- While the quality of this brand may vary, Bellawood presents an affordable choice for hardwood flooring enthusiasts.
Unfinished Flooring
- Brazilian cherry wood undergoes a dramatic transformation during the finishing process, transitioning from a pinkish-red hue to a rich reddish-brown with streaked tones.
- Unfinished flooring allows for customization and a personalized touch to your flooring project.
Handscraped Flooring
- Handscraped Brazilian cherry flooring replicates the antique look of hand-scraped hardwood, featuring textured ridges that add character to the flooring.
- This unique flooring option offers a rustic charm that is perfect for traditional and farmhouse-style interiors.
Vinyl Flooring
- Vinyl flooring options include standard and luxury vinyl that replicate the appearance of Brazilian cherry hardwood.
- Vinyl flooring offers versatility and durability, making it a practical choice for high-traffic areas in your home.
Price Considerations and Market Trends
In recent years, the Amazon hardwood market has experienced significant growth, leading to lower prices for Brazilian cherry flooring. The pricing ranges for Brazilian cherry wood flooring include:
- Standard vinyl flooring: Most affordable
- Luxury vinyl flooring: Moderate pricing
- Laminate flooring: Budget-friendly option
- Engineered wood flooring: Slightly more expensive
- Prefinished solid hardwood flooring: Varies based on market conditions
It is important to research and compare prices to find the best option that fits your budget and preferences. With a wide range of choices available, Brazilian cherry wood flooring offers a luxurious and sustainable solution for your home.
In conclusion, Brazilian cherry wood flooring is a timeless and elegant choice that adds warmth and sophistication to any space. From solid hardwood to engineered options, there are versatile solutions to suit every style and budget. By exploring the characteristics and brands of Brazilian cherry wood flooring, you can make an informed decision that enhances the beauty and value of your home. Happy renovating!
