Introduction
Brazilian Teak, also known as Cumaru, is one of the densest and most durable flooring materials available in the world. Boasting a rich palette of golden-brown to deep reddish-brown tones, our Brazilian Teak Solid Hardwood Flooring provides a high-end, exotic aesthetic coupled with structural performance that far exceeds domestic hardwoods like Oak or Maple.
Sourced from the lush regions of South America, Cumaru is naturally resistant to termites, decay, and heavy foot traffic. Its tight grain and natural oils make it an ideal investment for luxury residential estates and high-traffic commercial spaces where longevity is the primary requirement.
Technical Specifications: The Strength of Cumaru
When comparing Brazilian Teak to other species, the technical data highlights its physical superiority:
|
Feature |
Specification |
|
Species |
Dipteryx odorata (Cumaru) |
|
Janka Hardness |
3,540 lbf (Approx. 270% harder than Red Oak) |
|
Construction |
3/4" Solid Hardwood |
|
Finish Options |
Prefinished (Aluminum Oxide) or Unfinished |
|
Profile |
Tongue & Groove with Micro-Beveled Edges |
|
Stability |
Excellent; highly resistant to indentation |
Key Advantages of Brazilian Teak Flooring
Unmatched Surface Hardness
With a Janka rating of over 3,500, Brazilian Teak is nearly impossible to dent. It is the definitive flooring choice for households with large pets, high-heeled traffic, or children. While other floors show "wear paths" over time, Cumaru maintains its structural integrity for decades.
Natural Class A Fire Rating
Due to its extreme density and moisture content, Brazilian Teak naturally possesses a high resistance to fire. In many jurisdictions, it carries a Class A Fire Rating, the same rating given to steel and concrete, making it a safer choice for high-end interior construction.
Exotic Color Variation
One of the most sought-after traits of Brazilian Teak is its natural color "shading." Boards range from light honey tan to deep mahogany brown. This natural variegation creates a sophisticated, "organic" look that hides dust and small debris better than monochromatic stained floors.
Lifetime Value
While the initial installation of solid Brazilian Teak requires professional expertise, its lifespan is measured in generations. A 3/4" solid plank can be sanded and refinished multiple times, though its natural hardness means you will likely never need to do so.
Primary Applications
Luxury Residential Living
Creating a grand, warm atmosphere in Great Rooms and Master Suites.
01
Commercial Showrooms
Providing a durable yet elegant surface for high-end retail and gallery spaces.
02
Modern Kitchens
Utilizing its natural resistance to moisture and dropped objects.
03
High-Traffic Hallways
Ensuring the floor looks "new" even after years of heavy use.
04
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is Brazilian Teak the same as Burmese Teak?
A: No. While they share a trade name due to similar colors, Brazilian Teak (Cumaru) is much harder and denser than Burmese Teak. Burmese Teak is preferred for marine decking because of its stability, while Brazilian Teak is preferred for indoor flooring because of its extreme scratch resistance.
Q: Does Brazilian Teak change color after installation?
A: Yes. Like most exotic hardwoods, Cumaru is photosensitive. When first installed, the color variations are distinct; over several months of exposure to natural light, the tones will "level out" into a richer, more uniform deep brown.
Q: What type of saw blades are needed for installation?
A: Because of its 3,540 Janka hardness, Cumaru is very tough on tools. We strongly recommend using high-quality carbide-tipped blades and pre-drilling every hole for fasteners to prevent the wood from splitting or breaking your drill bits.
Q: Can I install solid Brazilian Teak over radiant heat?
A: We generally do not recommend solid 3/4" Cumaru for radiant heat systems due to its high density. For projects with radiant heat, please inquire about our Engineered Brazilian Teak options, which offer better stability under direct heat cycles.
Q: How do I maintain the shine of my Cumaru floor?
A: For prefinished floors, avoid wax or oil-based soaps. Simply use a damp (not wet) microfiber mop with a pH-neutral hardwood cleaner. Because the wood is so dense, it does not absorb spills quickly, but they should be wiped up promptly.