|
Because wood is the only sustainable, renewable flooring material, it simply makes good environmental sense to use it. Of course it's best to use common hardwoods or plantation grown exotic hardwoods. And, as with any remodeling project, you should do all you can to reduce waste during the installation process.
Vinyl, tile and other plastic floor coverings are often held to the sub-floor with toxic glues and mastics. The same is true for many types of carpet. You'll do yourself and the earth a favor if you forego these harmful adhesives in favor of a natural wood floor, which is either nailed or allowed to float on the sub-flooring.
Factory finished wood floors are the most durable because an aluminum silica is suspended in the finish to maximize abrasion resistance. Many factory finishes are water based to help the environment, while solvent-based finishes are applied under tight environmental controls.
Use water-based finishes when finishing or refinishing any wood floor. In addition to being less toxic, the floor will dry more quickly, with less yellowing.
|
