Consumers are much more diligent in researching the goods and services that we buy. Making environmentally conscious choices means that we have to understand how each product came to be, where it came from, and how it impacts the planet. Hardwood floors are the most eco-conscious type of flooring, but some wood is better than others. Even within the same category, there are types of wood that will have a lesser impact on the environment than others. Let’s look at good consumer practices when it comes to choosing solid hardwood floors.
Choosing the most eco-conscious wood
Although wood is a renewable resource, there is a big difference between replacing one tree and replacing an entire forest. A forest has a unique ecosystem that is hard to replace, even if you are replanting trees. A forest takes a long time to grow, so we have to be careful when we choose the wood we use for flooring. In terms of longevity, solid wood flooring is the ultimate choice. However, solid wood is often sourced from old growth trees that take a very long time to regrow.
Solid wood flooring
Illegal logging of wood is one of the biggest crimes across the globe, so you need to be extra vigilant when you look at solid wood flooring. Don’t just look at the aesthetics and the cost, but dig a little deeper to fully understand the impact of your choice.
- Conservation status – make sure that the species you choose is not endangered. You want to be especially careful with exotic and imported species.
- How far did it travel – exotic species have a lot of appeal to consumers, but they can be hard on the environment. The further a species has to travel, the bigger the carbon footprint. It is also harder to trust certifications and handling of the wood when you are dealing with imported species.
- Sustainably sourced – check that the wood is being sustainably sourced. Choosing local species from local lumber yards will make it easier and more manageable to check the certifications and make sure that the wood is being harvested responsibly.
To talk to an expert about your hardwood flooring project, schedule a free consultation at our showrooms.