Believe it or not—wood floors are eco-friendly! We know what you’re thinking. Wood comes from a tree so how is it eco-friendly? Contrary to popular belief, wood flooring is one of the most sustainable options on the market. Are going green by purchasing wood from a “green” provider or is there more to the story?
Today, we are going to dive into what eco-friendly wood flooring really is. It includes the entire lifecycle from responsible sourcing to sustainable finishes and proper disposal. Let us clear things up!
Understanding Sustainable Wood Sourcing
Sustainable wood flooring begins with sourcing. In order to be considered eco-friendly, the wood has to be harvested responsibly and the forest ecosystem has to be protected.
What is sustainable wood sourcing? Well, the wood comes from forests where the trees grow back at a rate that supports long-term health and biodiversity. The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification is one of the most respected standards for sustainable forestry. It certifies the wood comes from forests that meet rigorous environmental and social standards.
FSC-certified wood is harvested using methods that support reforestation, biodiversity and healthy forest ecosystems. It also prevents illegal logging and promotes responsible forest management practices.
The Important Role of Reclaimed Wood
Reclaimed wood is one of the most eco-friendly flooring options available. That’s because it repurposes wood from old buildings, barns and factories. Typically, the wood has to be at least 100 years old to be considered reclaimed wood. This helps save trees and prevents wood from ending up in landfills.
Choosing reclaimed wood has its advantages. First off, it reduces your carbon footprint since it doesn’t require cutting down new trees. It also works better in climates with fluctuating humidity like Denver.
Besides its environmental benefits, reclaimed wood also brings a bit of character into any space. It doesn’t matter whether the wood was salvaged from a barn, factory or old building. Each piece of wood adds natural beauty to your floors.
Impact of Low-VOC Finishes
When shopping around for an eco-friendly wood floor, don’t forget about the finish. Conventional finishes tend to contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that hurt your indoor air quality and the environment.
What are VOCs? They are chemicals released into the air during and following the application of certain finishes. These compounds can cause respiratory issues and contribute to air pollution. Wood flooring with low-VOC finishes provide better indoor air quality and make your home safer for everyone.
Advantages of North American Hardwoods
There are many species of wood. However, North American hardwoods are some of the most sustainable options.
Why are North American hardwoods the most eco-friendly? Their forests are some of the most well-managed and abundant in the world. The U.S. Forest Service suggests there were 199% more hardwood trees in 2007 than 1953.
The other factor that comes into play is the growth-to-removal ratio. For hardwood trees in the U.S., this is 2:1. In other words, two new trees are planted for every one removed. It allows forests to thrive and absorb carbon, contributing to a healthier environment.
Effects of Durability and Longevity
An eco-friendly wood floor goes beyond how the materials are sourced or finished. Durability also matters.
Why are floors that last a long time good for the environment? When floors last, they don’t need to be replaced as often. In turn, they contribute to waste less. Oak and walnut are some of the durable wood species—they are good for your wallet and the planet.
Considerations for End-of-Life Disposal
When your wood floors reach the end of their lifespan, you have to dispose of them. Remember to do so in an environmentally responsible manner.
Wood is biodegradable, not synthetic like vinyl or carpet, which end up in landfills. Recycling or upcycling your wood floor will keep it out of the trash. Additionally, wood flooring can be repurposed into new projects, helping them last even longer.
Shop Eco-Friendly Wood Flooring Today
The term “eco-friendly” goes beyond the wood itself. Sustainable sourcing, reclaimed wood and proper disposal all contribute to the sustainability of wood flooring. At Tongue & Groove, we provide a variety of eco-friendly flooring options. Our wood floors are beautiful and built to last.
Ready to make the eco-friendly choice? Contact us to schedule a consultation or visit our Denver showroom today!
