Hardwood flooring is easily the king of floor coverings. Other flooring materials simply cannot compete with the warm glow, elegance, and durability of wood. While there are many domestic species that off these desirable qualities, even they cannot compete with exotic wood species based on the same criteria. So, Dragon Scale Flooring thought it would be a good idea to introduce our clients to the exciting world of exotic hardwood flooring with this quick, comprehensive guide to three of the most popular exotic species available.
Jatoba (Brazilian Hardwood)
Jatoba is the America's popular wood flooring import from Brazil. That's saying a lot, considering the sheer volume of hardwood that gets shipped between the 2 nations annually!
This wood is prized for its rich, reddish-brown color, and its ability to change color with exposure to light. This process takes the strikingly grained wood from a tan or salmon color, to its characteristic deep reddish-brown color over time. It is also one of the hardest woods available on the market, coming in at a whopping 182% of the hardness of the famously durable Red Oak!
Cabreuva (Santos Mahogany)
This is thought to be the second most popular exotic hardwood species out of Brazil, thanks to its rich, deep mahogany color and minimal deviation in color and grain. You know what you are getting with Santos Mahogany!
This wood varies between orange-brown with yellowish accents, to a purplish brown or even deep, dark red. Like Jatoba, this wood is extremely hard, about 175% as hard as Red Oak.
Brazilian Koa (Tigerwood)
This extremely exciting species is prized for its dark brownish striping, that accents the generally orange/reddish-brown majority of the wood. These stripes can vary from wispy lines to bold, brushstroke-like splashes of vibrant color. Like most Brazilian exotic species, this wood is extremely hard, boasting 170% the hardness of Red Oak.
Thinking About Exotic Hardwood for your Home?
If you'd like your floors to stand out from the average domestic hardwood floor, and you think exotic is the way to go, Dragon Scale Flooring would love to help you find the species that will compliment your home best. We have a wide selection of exotic wood flooring to choose from, and our staff of courteous, knowledgeable flooring experts is always on hand to help you choose the best fit for your decor and budget.
Call, email, or stop by our showroom in Laurel, MD, to have a look around and to arrange for your free consultation and estimate!