When you think about hardwood floors, you probably wonder, “Is it just an umbrella term for any wood that comes from trees, or is a specific wood used for home flooring?”
As it turns out, not all trees offer wood that’s strong enough for long-term use in interior design. Instead, hundreds of different tree species—both foreign and domestic—are specifically grown and harvested for hardwood flooring applications.
The Origins of Wood for Flooring
In the United States, there are around 20 tree species that offer quality wood for flooring purposes. Mostly found on the Eastern side of the country, domestic hardwood is often sourced from oak trees. As for exotic wood, the industry typically trades in woods like teak, rosewood, and mahogany as well as maple.
Combating Deforestation in the Hardwood Floor Industry
There’s been a lot of discussion around deforestation in the past decade or so—and rightfully so. However, the lumber industry has been doing its part by harvesting trees and then replanting them, so they can get the stock they need without harming the environment.
In fact, according to a report by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the net growth of hardwood at present is actually greater than average demand. Even though the trees we obtain hardwood from take 40–60 years to mature, the preemptive measures taken by the lumber industry mean that some trees won’t need to be chopped for almost a century!
And while external factors may affect this prediction, as of yet, there’s no real concern regarding timber in the United States.
Rules Regarding Hardwood Care
Keep in mind that wood itself is an organic compound that lives and breathes at one point.
As such, when treating any wood product (such as hardwood) in your home, it’s important to take proper care of it. For example, it’s important to use cleaning products that are specifically designed for hardwood floors, and utilize protectors that keep your furniture legs safe from bumps and scratches.
Products such as the Bona Hardwood Floor Spray Mop would be perfect for such purposes. With its easily refillable cartridge and special original formula for hardwood floors, you can clear out any dust and debris from your floors to keep them shiny and safe from scratches.
Following basic routine maintenance tricks, like picking up your furniture instead of dragging it and giving it a deep clean and refinishing it every 3–5 years will not only make your hardwood look good, but it’ll also preserve its quality for a lifetime.
Interested in Learning about Hardwood Floors?
From information on custom wood flooring for kitchens to how you should clean hardwood floors, Oak & Broad offers insight and quality products so you can add hardwood flooring to your home where needed.
Start your consultation today to know more about our hardwood flooring options!