Article Number : 2349 |
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| Date | 8/28/2007 11:08:31 AM |
| Written By | LGM & Associates Technical Flooring Services |
| View this article at: | //floorbiz.com/BizResources/NPViewArticle.asp?ArticleID=2349 |
| Abstract | For more than a decade, hardwood flooring has been one of the more popular decorating products for new homebuyers as well as those remodeling their existing abodes... |
| Article | For more than a decade, hardwood flooring has been one of the more popular decorating products for new homebuyers as well as those remodeling their existing abodes. Whether it is an upgrade from what the builder initially offered or a replacement of an existing floor, wood flooring has continued to be a mainstay for consumers and designers even during tough economic times. In fact, during what has been considered one of the toughest economic periods in decades for the flooring industry, sales of wood floors remained a bright spot as it is one of the few categories that continues to grow. Whether it is the vast amount of new and exotic species from which to select to new styling options that allow consumers to bring the outdoors in, or from the numerous technological advances that have made it a durable, easy-to-maintain product, there are numerous reasons as to why wood remains one of the most popular options when it comes time to choosing a floor. The Internet, cable TV and satellite radio, to name a few, have helped make the world a smaller place as consumers now have access to goods from all corners of the globe. The same is true with wood floors. There was once a time when all the homeowner could get was plain, solid oak floors. Well, about the only resemblance today’s hardwood floors have to those of your grandparents are that you can walk on them. Whether it is a far-off exotic species from a remote jungle in Africa or from the less traveled regions in Eastern Europe, South America and Australia, specialty flooring retailers now offer consumers a wide assortment of options from which to choose. Beyond the exotic look, one step into a dealer’s wood section can take you back to a simpler time in American history, a time when the outdoor’s way of life was part of the interior of the home. Flooring featuring a worn or distressed feel to the surface, the rustic look is among the most popular types of floors being asked for by designers, builders and everyday customers. And, it is not just in America’s heartland, the rustic scene has gained prominence throughout the country. Technological advances at the manufacturing level have allowed the industry to offer a greater variety of decorating options, many of which match the design trends of other interior furnishings. For example, the smooth, polished look of cabinets and office furniture can now be had on the floor as well. Also, the overall width of each wood plank has grown to better resemble a true piece of wood. Sure, the thin, 21/4-inch strips are still available, but consumers are no longer locked into it. Today’s planks can now be as wide as 7 inches, with the most fashionable right now being just over 5 inches. Speaking of being locked in, one of the newest trends in wood flooring is the mechanical locking systems like those employed on laminate floors. With these easy-to-install glue-free mechanisms, purchasers can start enjoying their new wood floors immediately after installation. Technology has also allowed it so that redecorators, designers and builders can offer custom wood jobs, giving the end user a distinct and different floor from everyone else on the block. From specialized hand scraping to borders, medallions, faux finishes, the design possibilities are almost endless. Along with all the decorating reasons to owning a wood floor, it has been noted by real estate experts and realtors around the country that these floors help to increase the overall selling value of a house. Well maintained wood floors can easily increase the selling price of a home by 5% or more. The reason? Wood is looked upon as a luxury item so the addition of hardwood floors adds an aura of elegance to one’s home. There is little argument among scholars that throughout history wood has been used to create a feeling of richness wherever it is used. So, whether your consumer is buying a new home, redecorating an existing house or sprucing it up to sell, you can’t go wrong selling her a hardwood floor. |