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Brazilian Cherry Flooring in Bellevue, WA: 5 Things to Know (Cost, Color, Care)

Brazilian Cherry flooring, also known as Jatoba, is a popular hardwood flooring choice for homeowners in Bellevue, WA, and beyond. Known for its durability, stunning appearance, and unique characteristics, Brazilian Cherry flooring can be a fantastic addition to any home. Here are five essential things to know about this beautiful flooring option:

5 Things to Know About Brazilian Cherry Flooring in Bellevue, WA

Brazilian Cherry flooring, also known as Jatoba, is a popular hardwood flooring choice for homeowners in Bellevue, WA, and beyond. Known for its durability, stunning appearance, and unique characteristics, Brazilian Cherry flooring can be a fantastic addition to any home. Here are five essential things to know about this beautiful flooring option:

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Thinking about bringing Brazilian Cherry (Jatoba) hardwood flooring into your Bellevue home? You’re not alone. Homeowners love its rich red tones, durability, and high-end look. But before you decide, you probably have questions:

  • Does it get darker over time?
  • Is it hard to maintain?
  • What does it cost in Bellevue?
  • Will it go out of style?

We’ve pulled together answers to the most common questions people ask on Google, Reddit, Yelp, and local forums — all in one place.

Brazilian Cherry near me Bellevue, wa

What Is Brazilian Cherry & Why People Love It

  • Exotic hardwood with deep red to reddish-brown color.
  • Extremely hard — Janka rating 2,300–2,800, much tougher than oak or maple.
  • Ages beautifully — starts lighter, then darkens with sun exposure.
  • Adds instant warmth, elegance, and value to your home.

It’s a favorite for Bellevue homeowners who want something that looks bold and lasts decades.

FAQs About Brazilian Cherry Flooring

Will Brazilian Cherry darken unevenly under rugs or windows?
Yes. Sunlight darkens the wood. Rugs block light, so you’ll see lighter spots if rugs stay in one place too long. Rotate rugs early and consider UV-blocking film or curtains.
Does it show dust and scratches easily?
Yes — darker woods show dust, pet hair, and smudges faster. A weekly sweep or vacuum is usually enough. Scratches are less common because of its hardness, but satin finishes help hide them.
Is it very expensive to install & maintain?
Upfront, it costs more than oak or maple. But it lasts longer, can be refinished multiple times, and doesn’t dent as easily. Maintenance is just sweeping, mopping with wood-safe cleaner, and refinishing every 7–10 years.
Is Brazilian Cherry going out of style?
Design trends come and go, but Brazilian Cherry’s deep, warm tones are timeless. In Bellevue, buyers still see it as a premium upgrade.
Can it be refinished?
Yes! It sands well and can be restained lighter, darker, or even more matte/glossy.
Is it safe in Bellevue’s climate?
Yes, as long as you maintain indoor humidity between 35–55%. It’s not recommended for bathrooms or laundry rooms, but great in living areas, stairs, and bedrooms.

Pros & Cons of Brazilian Cherry Flooring

Pros

  • Durable, long-lasting, exotic look
  • Adds strong resale value
  • Great for high-traffic areas and pets
  • Deepens into a rich, warm tone over time

Cons

  • Darkens unevenly with sunlight
  • Dark tones show dust and pet hair quickly
  • Harder to cut/install (needs experienced installers)
  • Higher upfront cost

Rich Color and Unique Grain Patterns

One of the most notable features of Brazilian Cherry flooring is its vibrant, reddish-brown color. The wood can range from lighter shades of orange-brown to deep, rich red tones. This warm, exotic coloration can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room. Additionally, Brazilian Cherry features unique and varied grain patterns, which can create an eye-catching visual effect.

Brazilian Cherry refinishing near me Bellevue, WA

Natural Color Change Over Time

Brazilian Cherry is known for its tendency to darken and develop a richer color over time when exposed to sunlight. This natural color change can add character to your floor and enhance its appearance. However, it's essential to be aware of this characteristic to prevent uneven coloration due to furniture placement or rugs. Rotating or rearranging these items periodically can help ensure a more uniform color development.

Care & Maintenance

  • Sweep or vacuum weekly
  • Use hardwood-safe cleaner, not harsh soap
  • Felt pads on furniture, rugs near entries
  • Refinish every few years when surface dulls
  • Clean spills quickly — avoid standing water

Brazilian Cherry showroom Bellevue, wa

Potential Price and Environmental Considerations

Brazilian Cherry flooring can be more expensive than some domestic hardwood options due to its exotic nature and import costs. It's essential to factor this into your budget when considering this flooring choice. Additionally, it's crucial to purchase Brazilian Cherry flooring from a reputable supplier that sources wood from sustainably managed forests to ensure an environmentally responsible choice.

Cost of Brazilian Cherry Flooring in Bellevue

Here’s what you can expect locally for material + labor:

Material

  • Unfinished solid: $5.00–$6.50 per sq ft
  • Prefinished solid or engineered: $7.00–$9.00+ per sq ft

Installation / Labor

  • Basic install: $3.25–$5.25 per sq ft
  • Complex jobs: more (stairs, large layouts, custom work)

Total Installed Price

Most Bellevue homeowners spend $12–$20 per sq ft for a quality installation. Premium upgrades (wide planks, special finishes, custom staining) can reach $25–$30+ per sq ft.

💡 Example: A 300 sq ft living room costs around $3,600–$6,000 all-in.

Is Brazilian Cherry a Good Choice for Bellevue Homes?

Yes, if you want:

  • A premium floor that lasts decades
  • A warm, elegant look that adds value
  • Strong durability for pets, kids, or high traffic

It may not be the best fit if:

  • You prefer very light/neutral tones
  • Your budget is tight
  • You don’t want to manage sun exposure/darkening

Free In-Home Estimate for Brazilian Cherry Floors

Serving Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland, Seattle & the Eastside. See samples in your home, compare finish options, and get a clear quote.

📞 Call us today: (425) 595-1079
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Conclusion

Brazilian Cherry flooring is stunning, durable, and a smart investment for many Bellevue homeowners. With the right care, it can last 50+ years. Just remember: expect some darkening, plan your rug placement, and hire pros with exotic hardwood experience.

If you’re ready to see how Brazilian Cherry could look in your home, schedule your free in-home estimate today.

Oleg Chaikovskyi headshot
Oleg Chaikovskyi
Owner of OC Flooring
Bellevue, WA

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