Where Most Hardwood Flooring Comes From

These days, many home builders are looking for "green", or environmentally friendly, building options.  When it comes to these options, many people think of stone, or of woods such as bamboo and cork that are harvested solely from still living plants.  One fact that many home builders and remodelers overlook is that the current reforestation policies of most lumber and harvesting companies make hardwood a very viable and "green" choice of flooring as well.

Most hardwood flooring is harvested in North America.  While there are few companies who clear-cut areas without replanting, most reputable suppliers have policies in place that ensure they plant far more trees than they cut down.  This creates a very sustainable cycle, as there are always plenty of healthy trees.  These companies use a wide area of trees for creating flooring materials so that there are always far more acres of trees than areas of cleared forest.  It also ensures that for every year trees are cut down, a new field of trees reaches adulthood so that plants and animals have the ecosystem they need to survive undisturbed in their natural habitat.

Exotic hardwood suppliers work hard to make the same promise.  Even woods that come from the Brazilian rain forest are harvested under strict regulations that monitor deforestation and ensure that there is more planting than cutting down of trees.  This helps to actually improve the life span of the rain forests and provides a great benefit to the endangered animals that inhabit them.  In addition, older trees that would be more susceptible to damage are the first to be cut and used for flooring, ensuring the survival of younger and healthier trees.

In short, buying hardwood flooring from a reputable supplier is a contribution toward a "greener" planet.  These companies work hard to balance the needs of families with the needs of our planet, and are met with great success.  It is highly recommended that home builders choose "green" options whenever possible, and hardwood floors are a very excellent choice.