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Barnum Floors
9460 Swanson Blvd.
Des Moines, IA 50325
Phone: 515-270-2211 |
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Man’s
relationship with trees can
produce a Zen like feeling with many people. The very trees that supply us
with shelter, shade and beauty while living, continue to provide for us after
harvest by way of homes, furniture & warmth. In many people’s eyes, trees
never fully die. Within each piece of hardwood, we can see the successes and
struggles of each tree. We can witness the dry years when virtually no growth
appears and the years where rain was abundant. The knots show us where
branches previously flourished while the mineral color within each piece can
identify which part of the country or continent the tree originated. |
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There are very few flooring
materials that have stood the test of time as long as wood. Wood floors that
are properly cared for can last for hundreds of years as witnessed in Asia and
Europe. While natural stone and granite are also extremely durable, they do
not provide the warmth and relaxed feel associated with hardwood.
Most all homes built up to
1958-1964 have hardwood throughout areas of the home. Prior to this time, it
was difficult to obtain a home mortgage without hardwood flooring due to the
structural benefits wood produced. By the early 60’s, plywood was approved as
an alternative to hardwood and builders were quick to eliminate the extra cost
of installing solid wood floors. By 1981 hardwood flooring represented only 3%
of the total flooring market.
During the late 1980’s several
factors helped change this trend:
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Strong desire to build
quality back into homes. The home of the 70’s, while comfortable and
convenient, was very mediocre, incorporating mass produced building
materials.
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Technological advances in both
sanding equipment and floor finishes.
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Increase in breathing related
health issues among both adults and children. While carpet was about 30% the
cost of hardwood, studies found that carpet was also the breeding ground for
mold & dust mites, while trapping in pollen and pet dander.
So, why wood?
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Longevity – Solid wood floors
last for hundreds of years. Over the centuries, wood has proven itself to be
a durable floor choice. Newer synthetic materials have been unable to stand
the test of time.
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Increased Home Value – Hardwood
floors add real value to the home, as well as structural stability. Solid
wood is a permanent flooring solution rather than a simple floor covering.
Potential home buyers desire hardwood in homes because of the durability &
aesthetic value.
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Coziness & Warmth – Wood is
naturally warm, holds the surrounding temperature and is an excellent
insulator. There are thousands of air channels within each piece of hardwood
which hold in the surrounding heat.
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Hypoallergenic – For
people with environmental allergies, hardwood is a must. Unlike carpet, wood
does not harbor mildew, mites & pet hair.
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Easy to Clean – Sweep, mop a
little and you have a spotless floor. While hardwood floors are easy to
repair, if you do get a gouge or a scratch in the floor, it often adds to
the character. Modern polyurethane finishes eliminate the need for waxing &
hand buffing.
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