What to Expect When Refinishing exotic lumbers
Refinishing exotic lumbers is a unique process because it is an "exotic" species with characteristics very different from domestic woods like Oak. To ensure you are satisfied with your new floors, please review the following natural characteristics and limitations of this lumber. Some examples of exotic lumbers are below.
1. Rapid Color Change (Photosensitivity)
Exotics can be highly sensitive to light. When first sanded, the wood may appear lighter—often a salmon, tan, or orange hue. It will naturally darken to its signature deep reddish-brown (mahogany) over time.
Notice: Areas covered by rugs or furniture will darken slower than exposed areas, which can create "shadows" if items are moved.
2. Natural Silica Deposits - may show up more after refinishing
Brazilian Cherry naturally contains silica (mineral deposits) within the grain. After sanding and applying a finish, these deposits may appear as tiny white or gray specks or "shimmer" in the grain.
Limitation: This is a biological characteristic of the wood species itself and cannot be sanded out or removed.
3. Natural Oil Content and Finish Absorption
Exotic lumbers are naturally oily. These oils can sometimes interfere with how stains and topcoats bond or level out, occasionally leading to slight variations in sheen or drying times.
Limitation: While we use professional-grade sealers designed for exotic woods, the wood may not accept finish 100% evenly.
4. Hardness and Sanding
With a Janka hardness rating of roughly 2350, this wood is significantly harder than Red Oak. This density makes the sanding process more labor-intensive and may result in a different "feel" or texture compared to softer wood species.
Professional Acknowledgment:
By proceeding with the refinishing of Brazilian Cherry, the client acknowledges that the occurrences of silica deposits, uneven finish absorption due to natural oils, and natural color maturation are inherent limitations of the wood species. These are not a result of workmanship or application errors by the refinishing company, but rather the natural biological properties of the lumber.
South American Species
Brazilian Cherry (Jatoba): One of the most popular exotics, it features a deep reddish-brown color that darkens significantly with light exposure.
Tigerwood (Brazilian Koa): Famous for its bold, high-contrast dark stripes against a reddish-orange background.
Brazilian Walnut (Ipe): Exceptionally hard (Janka rating of ~3,680) with deep brown to olive tones, making it ideal for high-traffic or outdoor areas.
Cumaru (Brazilian Teak): Similar to Ipe in density, it offers warm reddish-brown hues and is naturally resistant to decay.
Santos Mahogany: Known for its rich burgundy to dark brown color and a distinctive interlocking grain that can appear striped
African Species
Wenge: A very dark, almost black wood with chocolate-brown streaks and a unique, coarse grain.
Sapele: Part of the mahogany family, it is recognized for its golden to reddish-brown color and frequent directional changes in its grain pattern.
Zebrawood (Zebrano): Features a pale cream background with dark, erratic stripes that resemble a zebra's coat.
Other Notable Exotics
Acacia: Sourced from various tropical regions, it offers a rustic look with swirling grains and colors ranging from light amber to dark mahogany.
Australian Cypress: A highly durable wood with a varied color range (tan to dark brown) and many small, tight knots that provide a distinct "country" aesthetic.
Teak: Prized for its natural oils and high silica content, making it exceptionally resistant to moisture and insects