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Problems With Brazilian Cherry Floors

Jennifer Gittins

According to Marcus Pickett of the Service Magic website, Brazilian cherry is among the most popular of hardwood floors for several reasons. It is twice as strong as oak, which makes it extremely resistant to dents and scratches, so it’s ideal for families with pets or children. Plus, when harvested sustainably, it can be considered an eco-friendly choice of wood flooring. Though there are plenty of benefits to owning Brazilian cherry hardwood floors, there are also some potential issues that may arise with this type of flooring.

Waxy Buildup

Some homeowners note that their Brazilian cherry floors have an unusual waxy, filmy or hazy buildup. This can occur when the floor is not properly maintained or the wrong cleaning products are used. According to The Flooring Lady, the best way to remedy this situation is to use 1 cup of white distilled vinegar diluted with 1 gallon of water.

Scratches, Dents

Though Brazilian cherry is considered to be a good hardwood flooring, some owners still have issues with scratches, dents and scuffs. This could be due to improper sealing, or it could also be due to improper cleaning. Regularly sweeping and cleaning up the floor is important, as dirt can act like sandpaper when continually rubbed back and forth along the floor.

Sunlight Fading

Like any colored flooring, Brazilian cherry can eventually become faded. Fading can be sparse around the floor or it can be concentrated in areas that receive additional or excessive sunlight. Once the wood has been bleached, a professional will be needed to even out the color, as the wood will need to be stripped and refinished. However, homeowners can prevent this by covering the area with a heavy-duty rug or using heavy curtains to prevent the sunlight from fully penetrating the area.

Water Damage

Some homeowners have issues with water damage because they install their Brazilian cherry wood floors in their kitchens or bathrooms. Wood floors of any type tend to absorb moisture rather well, so they should not be used in these rooms. Appliances like dishwashers or laundry room washers and dryers can produce heat and moisture that can cause the floors to swell and buckle over time.