Exotic Hardwood Floors

Exotic hardwood floors have been quite popular since many Brazilian hardwoods began reaching our shores in the early 90’s. Prior to those days, True Teak was the prominent source of imported hardwood flooring.

Rain Forest Destruction?

Nowadays ecology and the environment has put a damper on some seeking these exotic beauties. Are today’s exotic hardwood forests being managed properly? There may be organizations claiming such and manufacturers clamoring for that green seal of approval, but our opinion is always skeptical.

After all, placing something of demanding value in the hands of many often results in abuse. Who benefits and who loses? Consumers benefit in that exotic hardwoods offer stunning appearances opposed to standard red oak floors that populate millions of homes in the USA. The environment suffers unless you toss in the fact some of the land where great forests once stood are being cultivated into farming and feeding growing populations.

Feel Comfortable With Rain Forest Management. Ready To Buy?

The most popular exotic today is Brazilian Cherry, grown principally in the western potion of Brazil. Often touted for it’s hardness properties, Brazilian cherry prices are near that of higher end clear graded red and white oak flooring. Depending on grade, some prices can be lower. Others popular exotics choices today include:

• Amendoim
• Australian Cypress
• Brazilian Walnut
• Kempas
• Merbau
• Tigerwood
• Santos Mahogany
• Tiete Rosewood
• Brazilian Teak

Hard Floors Better To Manage and Care For? Exotic Santos Mahogany

Most exotic hardwoods are considered harder in terms of impact resistance than domestic US types. Often people are drawn or sold on their characteristics thinking they become an easier maintenance hardwood.

What Types Can I Buy?

Depending on what method of construction your home is built most exotic hardwoods are sold in their solid form. Some listed above are more difficult to obtain if one is seeking an engineered floor or one that can be floated. For instance Brazilian Walnut, Tiete Rosewood, and Brazilian Teak is the rarest form of engineered, but there are sources than can specialty mill larger orders.

Anything Else We Should Know?

Those seeking to install themselves should be prepared for material that is harder to cut. Standard low powered saws and installation equipment will not work as well as powered and pneumatic. Exotic hardwoods are not as easy to work with as common pine used for building construction. Weight is another example. Take for instance Brazilian Walnut weighing in at 4 pounds per square foot, almost double that of standard pine. If you have a few flights of stairs to lug your flooring up, expect some exercise. One bundle of solid Brazilian Walnut or Brazilian Cherry can weigh in at 60 to 80 pounds.

Find Hardwood Installers Near You

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