Allergies

In trying to pin point why hardwood floors have made a great comeback, all one has to do is look within their own home. Carpeting contains an enormous amount of nasty stuff including dust mites that cause the simplest forms of allergies. You may think by calling in the steam vacuum guys the problems will disappear. Unfortunately they are often ground deeper into the bottom of the carpet. After time they fall through carpet and padding and become trapped.

Odors

Carpeting often traps unusual odors that even the best cleaning cannot remove. If you’re fond of dogs and cats, pet hair is not a problem with hardwood floors as they are easier to clean .

Natural And Not Synthetic

Hardwood floors are natural and more eco friendly compared to carpeting that utilizes petroleum based products. Moreover, dust mites cannot survive on hardwood floors, but they populate carpet by the droves. Not only does newer carpet turn off many sensitive to allergies, but some that are severely sensitive cannot live with it.

Hardwood Finishes

For those that may be chemically sensitive, new pre-finished floors will off gas to an extent but will dissipate quickly. Some Chinese imports may take longer. Conversely, unfinished floors that have been finished will also have lingering effects but will be more noticeable if oil based types are used.

Appearances

Hardwood floors also have their own unique beauty. Besides being beautiful and hard-wearing, hardwood floors are environmentally friendly as well. Solid 3/4″ hardwood floors will last a lifetime if proper care is applied. Not one single piece among a few possible thousand (depending on the layout) will be the same.

Hardwood Sells Homes

A sizable portion of the renewed interest has to do with increasing a homes value, which in many cases it will, but depends on other factors as well. Being in the right neighborhood certainly helps resale value. However if you’re on the wrong side of town expect your new investment to be enjoyed by yourself only, but adding hardwood floors to the home has proven effective in selling a home faster.

Rental Properties

Hardwood floors are a great choice for rental properties. You don’t have to choose the expensive stuff, just something that will serve it’s purpose and last. Prefinished cabin grade hardwoods are ideal. They don’t carry a warranty, but is your tenant going to be concerned with a few flaws here and there? Ask yourself about a potential renter; will they be more impressed with a hardwood floor or new carpet?