The past few years have seen a significant shift in the extent to which environmental values influence the purchasing decisions of consumers. Environmental impact, sustainability, and social responsibility are now key factors driving the selection of consumer goods. When it comes to major projects like building or renovating your home, the right materials, such as flooring, make all the difference.
Because it covers such a large area, flooring is one of the most significant factors that determine the environmental impact of a home throughout its life cycle. Unlike other types of flooring, hardwood is known for its superior durability and reduced environmental impact. There are many reasons why hardwood floors are the best choice for the environment.
Locally-sourced materials
In Quebec, wood is an abundant local resource, which helps reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions related to its transportation. Many of the wood species used to make hardwood floors, such as maple, birch, and oak, can be found right here at home.
In contrast, exotic materials like bamboo and cork have to travel long distances. The same applies to species like Jatoba, Mahogany, and Tigerwood, which are not found in North American forests.
Wood, a natural and renewable resource
Unlike synthetic materials that require the extraction of non-renewable resources like oil, hardwood flooring is manufactured from a natural, non-polluting, biodegradable, and renewable resource. North American forests are managed responsibly and sustainably to ensure the preservation of the surrounding ecosystem. Modern tree-harvesting techniques do more than ever to protect the soil and ensure the natural regeneration of our forests. These methods ensure that more trees are planted than are cut down. In fact, Canada and the U.S. have strict laws that regulate tree cutting, including acceptable methods, rates, and volumes. (To find out more about forestry laws in Canada: natural-resources.canada)
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At PG Flooring, 95% of our wood is sourced less than 300 km from our facilities. Our wood is sourced exclusively from North American forests, and we are committed to avoiding use of uncertified wood from controversial sources. |
The lowest carbon emissions
When a tree is cut down, the carbon stored in its fibres is retained in the products made from its wood. Because hardwood floors are longer-lasting than other types of flooring, the carbon can remain trapped for several decades, sometimes more than 100 years, before being released back into the atmosphere in the form of CO2. This is just one of the reasons why hardwood floors have the smallest carbon footprint of any type of flooring. (Source: Hardwood Floors Mag)
Manufacturing methods
Another reason for hardwood flooring’s remarkably low carbon footprint is the way in which it is manufactured. Hardwood processing requires minimal water and energy and, unlike the manufacture of synthetic materials, does not involve any chemical processes. Moreover, very little waste is generated as wood chips and sawdust can easily be used to make paper or composite products and can even be converted into fuel to generate clean energy.
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At PG Flooring, we work hard to minimize our carbon footprint. As a result of our efforts, we generate approximately 12,000 carbon credits per year, available for sale. These credits are the result of our numerous environmentally responsible activities that eliminate the need for fossil fuels. |
Durability
No other material can stand the test of time and transcend trends as well as hardwood, which is why experts consider it the most durable type of flooring. With proper maintenance, and the option to sand and refinish, hardwood floors can last over 100 years. Even at the end of their lifespan, hardwood floors can be recycled or repurposed.
Durability comparison chart for different types of flooring
(Source : National Floors Direct)
Air quality
Hardwood floors do not attract or retain dust or allergens, which helps reduce the risk of allergic reactions and other respiratory problems and contributes to a healthier indoor environment. Maintenance is quick and easy using only gentle cleaning products.
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PG Flooring uses products that are safe for both consumers and the environment, and our 100% UV-curable coating is guaranteed to reduce ambient air emissions. The low solvent, formaldehyde, and VOC (volatile organic compound) content of the varnishing products used on our flooring eliminates any risk to human health. |
PG Flooring product certifications
PG Flooring's prefinished solid hardwood floors are Greenguard Gold certified, meaning they meet GREENGUARD standards for low chemical emissions into indoor air during product usage. In addition, PG Flooring's chain of custody has earned it FSC® certification, which means that most of our wood species are available as FSC®-certified flooring.
Wood floors add a timeless aesthetic and are a sustainable, environmentally friendly option for homeowners and building contractors committed to environmental responsibility.
If you have any questions about our products or need help choosing the right type of flooring, we invite you to contact a PG Flooring retailer near you.
