Log Cabins are no longer typical. Wood flooring has taken on a shape of its own with radiant heat and cork materials. Timber and Engineered Wood have taken technological turns. Wood furniture in general is now politically correct as something hypo-allergenic. Wood in all forms is taking on a whole new shape in the 21st century.
On the market today we are finding new wood products emerging that cut across the industry gamut. Wood floors are bought because they are hypo-allergenic, and that they look pretty. But consumers, and many professionals, are not being educated enough with the rise of new technology applied in the timber and wood industry. Wood floors have become one of the most medically helpful flooring options available. The senior producer for this program said, “My wife and I personally changed our carpeted home into a wood floor home to reduce dust and to help in our allergy related symptoms. Since that has occurred, installing the wood floor is one of the best moves we’ve made.”
Scientific evidence indicates that [wood floors] use less energy and water to produce than other flooring alternatives, which is helpful to our natural resources, and that they come from a renewable sources – trees. Add to this that wood floors are medically helpful for people with allergies. According to an EPA study, wood floors do not harbor allergens, microorganisms or harmful pesticides that can be tracked in from outdoors. In addition, dust, mold and animal dander contamination is minimal in homes with wood floors. Based on these EPA findings, wood floors promote a healthier living, and work, atmosphere. Bill Clossin, VP of marketing at Harris Tarkett, a manufacturer of hardwood flooring, said, “There are lots of reasons why homeowners are choosing hardwood floors over other options. But there's no doubt that the search for indoor air quality is at the top of the list.”
Wood Works, as part of the National Architectural Report, was developed to explore these latest trends, innovations and new technologies in the woodworking and timber industry. The series will also be featuring a variety of new products, services and organizations that make an impact on consumers and business professionals to promote education on key issues for consumer forest products, logging and woodworking equipment, building technology, milling, and the skill professionals demonstrates behind these industries.
