Hello, I am looking to have Brazilian Cherry hardwood floors refinished at our new home and have a couple questions and would really appreciate any advice.

1) Do you recommend an oil or water-based finish? Will the floor darken over time with water-based? I have read that water-based will prevent darkening? I have also read conflicting reviews on whether to use oil vs. water for exotic woods such as brazilian cherry with many people recommending a water-based solution.

2) I want to preserve the natural color of the brazilian cherry floor. In this case, should I have it varnished or stained?

Thanks for your help, much appreciated.

It's Your choice. I've done both (oil/water) . . . yes water will be initially lighter.
The natural aging of this wood, can't be stopped, slowed, maybe. You've go to appreciate this wood for what it is, Dark.
My choice has been oil-modified urethane.
Dan

staining the floor helps ..but the stain need to have some pigment.

try something like a golden oak or similar...stain the floor it will keep it close to natural color then apply finish of choice..

Thanks for your responses, I appreciate it. I have two last follow-up questions:

1) What type of sheen do you recommend on brazilian cherry hardwood floors: matte, satin or semi gloss? The hardwood floors will be fairly high traffic areas (living room, kitchen, dining room).

2) Also, have you all heard of the finish Synteko and if so, do you recommend it?

Thanks again for your advice.