As a homeowner, you will most likely need to replace flooring at one point in time. Age and basic wear and tear can all wreak havoc on the floors of each room in your house. Unfortunately, selecting the best option for your home can be difficult due to the various options on the market. Considering an estimated 54 percent of buyers will pay more for a home with hardwoods, this flooring option is a smart investment. Most people understand the benefits of this attractive and durable flooring, but others may believe myths that shed a negative light on wood floors. With this guide, you will learn the truth behind a few common myths.
Children and Pets Will Ruin Wood Floors
One of the most common misconceptions people believe is that hardwood floors are not suitable for homes with children and pets. From excessive running and playing to spilling food and drink to your dog or cat's nails scratching the wood, it is easy to see why many homeowners are concerned about their children and pets. However, hardwood floors are designed to withstand these basic issues that you may face every day.
It is important to note that certain species of wood are more durable than others, so you should take that into consideration when choosing wood for your home if you have children and pets.
Walnut is one of the strongest and less prone to wear and tear while an exotic mahogany or cherry are less durable.
The type of finish on the floors will also play a big role in durability. A thicker finish is capable of sealing the wood, reducing the risk of scratches, dents, and dings.
Wood Floors Negatively Affect the Environment
Many people believe hardwood floors harm the environment, but this is also a myth that needs to be addressed. Wood is actually one of the most eco-friendly options you can use as flooring in your home.
Today, more and more manufacturers are harvesting wood in sustainable ways. Harvesting does not impact the environment in large ways, since trees are a renewable natural resource. Most people are surprised to learn that for every cubic foot of trees harvested, an estimated 1.66 trees are regrown. This reduces any negative impact on the environment.
The average lifespan of hardwood floors is also a factor to consider when researching how eco-friendly this flooring option can be. Since they can last 100 years or more, wood floors will not need to be replaced often. This reduces waste in local landfills, which benefits the environment tremendously.
Wood Floors Are Not Ideal for Kitchens
Moisture can wreak havoc on wood, so it is easy to see why so many homeowners believe hardwoods cannot be used in the kitchen. Fortunately, you can install hardwood floors in your kitchen and enjoy them for many years to come.
If an excessive amount of moisture spills onto the hardwoods in your kitchen, the floors may cup or warp slightly. The best way to prevent this is to reduce the risk of spills on the floor. Clean up any liquid that is spilled immediately. You should also place rugs or mats near areas where spills are most likely, such as in front of the stove, oven, and sink.
Your kitchen is also one of the busiest rooms of the house, so you may think there is too much risk of damage if you install wood floors in this room. Thankfully, that is also not true, since installing the most durable wood with the best sealant possible will protect the floors in a high-traffic area such as the kitchen.
Hardwood floors offer numerous benefits that you should take advantage of. By understanding the truths behind these common myths, you will finally be able to realize the benefits of hardwood flooring.
Share4 August 2017
Do you like your existing flooring? It isn't always easy to find floors that you love, which is why so many manufacturers create such an incredible variety of different products. However, if you know what you are looking for, choosing the right flooring doesn't have to feel like an impossible feat. I wanted to create a blog all about finding the right flooring to make things easier for homeowners across the world. Check out this blog to learn more about different products, manufacturers, installation methods, and styles. After all, you never know when you will need to find a new floor for your place.
