American Cherry is prized for its elegance and remarkable color transformation. While it begins as a soft pinkish – tan, it matures into a deep, rich reddish-brown when exposed to natural light. A solid cherry floor is perfect for homeowners who want a smooth, fine-grained surface that brings a sense of traditional luxury and a natural “glow” to any room.
Botanical Name: Prunus serotina
Janka Hardness Scale: 950 lbf (A softer hardwood prized for its texture and luster)
Origin: Sustainably sourced from Eastern North America.
Tree Characteristics: Black Cherry trees are medium-sized hardwoods that live for about 150 to 200 years. They produce the famous dark fruit and a timber that has been the preferred choice of American furniture makers and master craftsmen for centuries.
Photosensitivity: Cherry is a “living” wood. It is highly sensitive to light, which triggers a natural oxidation process. This causes the wood to darken and richen in color significantly during the first year of installation, eventually reaching its iconic deep patina.
Technical Detail |
Manufacturing Standard |
|---|---|
| Product Type | 3/4″ Solid Hardwood |
| Moisture Content | Kiln dried to 6-8% for maximum stability |
| Milling Profile | Tongue & Groove (T&G) and Back |
| End Matching | Precision end-matching available upon request |
| Edge Profile | Choice of Square Edge or Micro-bevek |
| Available Widths | 2 1/4″ to 10″ (Rift & Quartered up to 6″) |
| Available Lengths | 2′-12′ (High percentage of 6′ & longer planks) |
| Available Grades | Select & Character (Rustic) |
| Lead Times | Standard widths ship quickly; Specific tallies available upon request. |
Natural Patina: Cherry is one of the few woods that actually looks better with age. Its transition from a light salmon to a deep, burnished red is a hallmark of authentic solid wood. Fine, Smooth Grain: Unlike the deep textures of Oak, Cherry has a very subtle, satiny grain pattern. It feels incredibly smooth underfoot and provides a “soft” visual that complements both traditional and colonial architectures.
Warmth & Comfort: With a Janka rating of 950, Cherry is our softest species. This makes it very comfortable for barefoot living, providing a warmer feel than denser woods like Hickory.
Superior Finish: Cherry mills exceptionally well, resulting in precise tongue-and-groove fits and a glass-like finish quality once sanded and sealed.