How Wood Flooring Helps Asthma and Allergy Sufferers: Unveiling Health Benefits

Posted on May 11, 2023

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The Asthmatic’s Ally: How Wood Flooring Helps Asthma & Allergy Sufferers

Asthma and allergies have been the bane of many people’s lives, dictating the activities they engage in, the places they visit, and even the homes they live in. The latter is particularly significant, as it’s estimated that we spend approximately 90% of our time indoors, making our home environment crucial to our overall health. One often overlooked aspect of this environment is the flooring. While it might seem like a minor detail, the type of flooring you choose can play a significant role in managing allergies and asthma. Among the many options available, Wood Flooring stands out for its unparalleled benefits for those suffering from these conditions. Wood Flooring and Asthma

Benefits of Wood Flooring for Asthma and Allergy Sufferers

Reduced Allergens

One of the primary benefits of wood flooring is its ability to minimise allergens. Carpets, for instance, can trap dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and other allergens in their fibres, making it nearly impossible to remove them entirely, even with regular vacuuming. Over time, these allergens accumulate and are released into the air every time the carpet is walked on, leading to allergic reactions and asthma attacks. In contrast, wood flooring doesn’t provide a hiding place for these allergens. It has a smooth, hard surface where dust and other particles cannot easily settle. Regular sweeping or vacuuming can easily remove any allergens that happen to land on the floor. This significantly reduces the number of allergens in your indoor environment, alleviating allergy symptoms and asthma attacks.

No volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

VOCs are gases emitted from certain solids or liquids, including many types of synthetic flooring. Exposure to VOCs can result in eye, nose, and throat irritation, shortness of breath, headaches, fatigue, nausea, dizziness, and skin problems. Moreover, some VOCs are suspected or known to cause cancer in humans. Wood flooring, on the other hand, is a natural product and doesn’t emit VOCs when installed correctly. This makes it a safer choice for asthma and allergy sufferers who might react to the chemicals released by other types of flooring.

Mould and mildew resistance

Mould and mildew growth is a common issue in homes, and it’s a significant trigger for allergies and asthma. These fungi thrive in damp and humid environments, and some flooring types, especially carpets, can trap moisture, providing an ideal breeding ground for mold and mildew. Wood flooring is less prone to this issue. Though it can absorb moisture, proper installation and maintenance can prevent this, making it a more resistant option against mold and mildew. It’s crucial, however, to promptly clean up any liquid spills on your wood floor to prevent water damage and potential mold growth.

Improved Air Quality

Wood floors contribute to healthier indoor air quality. Since they don’t trap dust and allergens and don’t emit VOCs, the air in your home stays cleaner. Furthermore, studies have found that wood panels can even improve air quality by moderating humidity levels. Wood naturally absorbs and releases moisture, adjusting to the room’s conditions, thus helping maintain a comfortable and healthy indoor environment.

Choosing and Maintaining Your Wood Flooring

Choosing Your Wood Flooring

When choosing your wood flooring, consider factors such as the wood species, the finish, and the installation process. Some wood species are harder and more durable than others. For instance, oak, maple, and cherry are popular choices for their durability. The finish is also essential. Prefinished wood flooring is a good choice because it undergoes a rigorous factory finishing process that often includes several coats of a high-tech finish. This creates a highly durable surface that is more resistant to stains, spills, and wear, reducing the possibility of allergens settling in any scratches or grooves. The installation process should be performed by professionals to ensure proper fitting and sealing. This is crucial to preventing moisture buildup, which could lead to mould growth. Parquet, sanded, gap filled with resin and sealed with 4 coats of matt natural seal.

Parquet, sanded, gap filled with resin and sealed with 4 coats of matt natural seal.

Sanded, stained and sealed pine 5.8'' boards

Maintaining your wood flooring

Maintenance is an essential part of keeping your wood flooring allergy-friendly. Regular sweeping or vacuuming can help remove dust and allergens. Be sure to use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to ensure the allergens aren’t released back into the air. Mopping should be done with care. Avoid using too much water, which can seep into the wood and cause damage. Instead, use a damp mop and a cleaner specifically designed for wood floors. Spills should be wiped up promptly to prevent moisture from seeping into the wood. It’s also recommended to use mats or rugs at entryways to minimise the amount of dirt and dust brought in by shoes. Periodic professional cleaning may also be beneficial. Professionals have the tools and expertise to thoroughly clean your wood floor without causing damage. In addition, your wood floor may need to be refinished periodically. This involves sanding down the surface and applying a new finish. Refinishing can help restore your floor’s beauty and durability, as well as its allergy-friendly properties. Maintaining your wood flooring

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Conclusion

Living with asthma or allergies is not easy, but choosing the right home environment can significantly alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. Wood flooring is an excellent choice for those seeking to create a healthier, more comfortable home. It offers numerous benefits, including reduced allergens, no VOC emissions, resistance to mould and mildew, and improved air quality. While wood flooring requires some maintenance to keep it in good condition and preserve its health benefits, the effort is well worth it. So whether you’re building a new home or renovating an existing one, consider choosing wood flooring. It’s not just a matter of aesthetics or durability; it’s a significant step towards better health. Remember, every step you take on your wood floor is a step away from allergens and asthma triggers. This makes wood flooring not just a choice for your home but a choice for healthier living. Ultimately, managing asthma and allergies requires a comprehensive approach that goes beyond just the type of flooring you choose. It involves managing your overall exposure to allergens, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and following your healthcare provider’s advice. But with wood flooring, you have a strong ally in your corner, working silently but effectively to help you breathe easier and live better.