When it comes time to replace or upgrade flooring, most people will choose hardwood floors. Especially in areas with a warmer climate, ceramic tile is becoming more and more popular, but there is just something about maple, walnut or oak flooring that appeals to people almost universally.
One of the reasons to choose oak, in particular, is because it falls mid-way on the Janka Rating Scale, which lists different varieties of wood based on how hard or dense they are. Businesses or other locations that get a tremendous amount of traffic or a high level of abuse may wish to look to the more dense offerings, but for home installations, oak is more than sufficiently durable. The trade off for choosing increased hardness is that the grain pattern is lost. Oak, on the other hand, is prized for its prominently displayed grain that really comes to life after staining. It goes without saying, obviously, that too soft a wood would not be a good choice for flooring, no matter the location.
Appearance and durability are definitely prime motivators when it comes to flooring, however, for many, there is another reason to choose hardwood that is every bit as important. These homeowners are removing all of the carpeting from their homes and installing wood or tile due to the research and studies that have documented the resulting health advantages for people with any sort of breathing issue.
Asthma affects almost 20 million Americans. Those suffering with this chronic lung disease are susceptible to a broad range of environmental and seasonal triggers which can bring on attacks of not being able to breathe. Untreated, it is possible for an asthma attack to lead to death. Many common allergens are found in almost every home. They include dust mites, pollen, mold, insect dropping and pet dander. It is very important to keep the area as clean and free of these particles as possible. However, it is nearly impossible to remove them from carpeting and, consequently, many have realized their best recourse is to remove the carpet.
The good news is that making the choice to install your new oak or walnut flooring is one that you can feel good about on all levels. Not only have you significantly added value to your home, which will make a huge difference should you ever decide to sell, but you have also made a positive step toward protecting the health of your family.