Brazilian cherry flooring, also known as Jatoba, is one of the more common exotic species available domestically. The tree for this flooring grows in South and Central America, but the tree itself does not produce cherries and is not related to the domestic cherry tree. While "Brazilian cherry" or "Jatoba" are used domestically to sell this flooring, other names, such as "Brazilian copal," "South American locust," and "stinking toe," are used. The latter of these three comes from the odor of the tree's pulp.
The durability and density are an advantage for this flooring. The wood has a rating of 2350lbf on the Janka scale - a number higher than that of all domestic species. The appearance of the wood, however, makes it one of the most distinct. Brazilian cherry has a tan-to-pink patina accented by darker red stripes. The wood is fine-grained and stain resistant and feels heavier than most.
Because of the density, Brazilian cherry flooring requires a different approach to installation. Bringing the wood inside before adding it is recommended, as the wood can adjust to the temperature of your home or building. Once you need to install it, all planks need to line up and must be installed perpendicular to all floor joints.
After the wood has been installed, Brazilian cherry flooring needs to be cleaned regularly. Sweeping and vacuuming any dirt and dust every day is recommended, while the surface should be cleaned once a week. The solution for cleaning should use as little moisture as possible, and the floor should air dry afterwards. The cleaning solution used, however, shouldn't contain wax, vinegar, or acid.
Because Brazilian cherry flooring is one of the more common exotic species sold by retailers, the wood is offered in unfinished, prefinished, and engineered options. Engineered hardwood, in general, lasts longer in homes with a radiating heat source. Prefinished and unfinished woods, on the other hand, vary with need. If an entire floor needs new Brazilian cherry flooring, prefinished will make installation go quicker. If you're trying to match new flooring to existing hardwood, unfinished is a better choice.
