Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood floors are not only beautiful, they also resist common household allergens. In addition, the smooth surface of
some of the hardest hardwood
floor types (such as Brazilian Cherry) can help accommodate wheelchair movement with little wear and tear. Note that hardwood
flooring may not be suited for
everyone as the slick surface could be dangerous for an unpredictable step.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Easy to maintain
- Hardwood flooring is a natural insulator
Cons
- Can be easily scratched
- Certain hardwood types can warp upon liquid contact or
climate change
- Hardwood flooring can be slippery, providing an unsafe surface for people who use walkers and canes
- Amplifies sound
- Sunlight exposure can cause floors to darken
- May expand or contract with changes in humidity (which can lead to floors cupping
or cracking)
Disability–Friendly Floor Tips – Hardwood Flooring
- Add a hard urethane finish to increase durability
- Clean up spills, dirt and debris immediately
- Protect the subfloor with a moisture barrier or underlayment such as cork or foam rubber
- Help manage allergies and respiratory problems by choosing hardwood flooring and adhesives containing little to no
VOCs*
- Use flat, non–slip rugs or mats in high–traffic areas to minimize damage.
Note: Rugs
and mats with rubber backings may discolor
hardwood flooring.
- Avoid putting hardwood flooring in areas where water or other liquids may spill (example: bathroom, kitchen, laundry
room) as this could void your
floor's warranty
*VOCs are carbon–based, chemical compounds that can be found in
certain floors and flooring materials. VOCs are commonly associated with allergy–like symptoms and are even believed to
increase cancer risk.
