It?s no secret that summer can be a struggle for some with the high pollen count and the end of the spring bringing allergy season to an all-time peak. However, Hessler Floor Covering offers many flooring solutions for your home that can reduce the amount of dust and pollen that come in uninvited. ?Be it wood, tile, laminate or alternative flooring options, there are multiple ways to reduce the flow of allergies in your household.
Wood
When it comes to hardwood flooring, there are two great options to reduce allergies. Solid wood is the pricier option of the two, but it tends to be the longest lasting and healthiest option, according to experts. Since wood reacts to moisture and humidity, at the end of its life, it tends to bend and crack. However, most wood floors last a family a lifetime. Wood floors are easy to clean and do not hold onto dirt and pollen like some other flooring options, which makes it the ideal choice for those with heavy allergies. Engineered wood is a less expensive alternative to solid wood, but serves similar purposes, in terms of protecting against allergies. An added advantage is that it tends to be less prone to expansion from heat and pressure, which can make it a more attractive option to some buyers.
Laminate
Laminate flooring has become a popular option for those who are not willing to pay the high prices of real wood, but still need the benefits of flooring that does not collect dust and allergens. Laminate is easy to clean, and its smooth surface does not allow for the collection of dust mites. ?However, be cautious when choosing a laminate, as some companies use formaldehyde as a binder, which happens to be a strong trigger for asthma.
To ensure your flooring is free of these potential allergy dangers, talk to a Hessler Floor Covering expert to learn more.
Tile
Ceramic tile is a great option for those with allergies, because you can easily clean it and the slickness of the tile does not let much dust accumulate. However, tile has a chilly effect so people are tempted to lay down rugs to fix the problem, and those rugs gather pollen and dust and enhance the opportunity for allergies. Another slight problem with tile is slip resistance, especially in parts of the home like the kitchen and bathroom. For these tricky areas, one should choose smaller tile with more grout lines to help build resistance. Tile is also a less expensive option for the home, compared to other flooring options. Another product to consider is natural stone, which is remarkably durable and easy to clean and shares similar qualities to tile, in terms of allergy protection. Before purchasing this type of product, be sure that your home?s structure can support the additional weight.
Steer Clear of the Carpet
In general, hard surface flooring is best for those with allergies or asthma, because it is easily cleanable and does not attract dust mites or mold. However, those with allergies should generally steer clear of carpet flooring. Carpet is known by experts to collect dust and pollen and other allergens that tend to harbor in the carpet and sometimes become difficult to clean out. Additionally, synthetic carpets emit VOCs, which are volatile organic compounds that can trigger irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, as well as asthma. Although carpet has many inviting qualities, it is not intended for those who wish to live in a sniffle-free life.
Allergy season doesn?t have to ruin your floors or deprive you of the aesthetic features you desire. By researching materials that are best for your home and your allergies, you can have the floors you truly want. ?Hessler Floor Covering offers a vast selection of flooring options in a variety of brands, to meet the needs of most homeowners. Visit our website at HesslerFloors.com to schedule a free estimate. ?
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