10 Tips for Choosing Sustainable and Durable Parquet Flooring
At the European Parquet Federation (FEP), we know that choosing a parquet floor is not a trivial matter. Parquet floors are a long-term investment, especially if you opt for sustainable and durable options. In this article, we proudly share our 10 tips for choosing sustainable and durable parquet. These tips not only help you in choosing the right floor but also ensure that you make ecologically responsible decisions. Let's dive in!
1. Choose Sustainable Wood
When you are looking for sustainable parquet floors, it's important to first consider the origin of the wood. Does the wood come from legal sources and from responsibly managed forests with certifications such as FSC or PEFC? These certifications ensure that the wood is harvested in an environmentally friendly and socially responsible manner.
2. Pay Attention to the Thickness
Did you know that the thickness of wood flooring affects its lifespan and durability? By definition, parquet has a minimum top layer of 2.5 mm, so you can sand and refinish the floor at least 2 times. This extends the life of your floor and makes it much more sustainable.
3. Investigate Finishing Options
The finish of your parquet affects not just the appearance, but also the durability. Oil, varnish, or hard wax oil, what do you choose? Opt for finishes with low VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) for a more environmentally friendly home.
4. Look at the Correct Installation Method
Floating, glued down, or nailed? The installation method can also affect the durability and resilience of your parquet flooring. For instance, floating floors are easier to remove and reuse while glued down installation improves the sanding possibilities (onsite renovation).
5. Ask about the Origin of the Floor
At FEP, we encourage transparency about the origins of parquet flooring. Always ask about the source of the materials and the production conditions when making a purchase.
6. Consider the Color and Texture
Aesthetics naturally also play a role. Neutral shades and natural finishes suit more interior styles and often have a longer lifespan in terms of fashion trends. But do not forget that you can always renovate and change the style of your parquet!
7. Check the Warranty Conditions
A good parquet floor comes with a solid warranty. This not only provides peace of mind, but also an indication of the resilience and durability of the product.
8. Take Maintenance into Account
Consider how easy the floor is to maintain. Opt for a floor that is resistant to wear.
9. Environmentally Friendly Production Processes
Inquire about the production processes of the parquet floor. Companies that use environmentally friendly methods, such as recycling waste products, contribute to a more sustainable world.
10. Reliable Suppliers
Finally, opt for reliable suppliers with a good reputation in the field of sustainability and quality. At FEP, we only unite the best European parquet manufacturers that meet the highest standards.
Our Mission at FEP
As the overarching organization that unites European parquet manufacturers, national parquet federations, and industry suppliers, FEP is committed to sustainability. We promote the use of wood as an environmentally friendly and renewable material. Our members offer various types of parquet flooring that meet high standards and provide aesthetic flexibility for both modern and traditional interiors.
Contact information
Do you have any question or would you like more information about sustainable and durable parquet flooring? Please contact us:
- Email: info@parquet.net
- Address: SQ Europe - Square de Meeûs, 35 - BE-1000 Brussels
- Website: parquet.net
With these 10 tips for choosing sustainable and durable parquet, we hope to help you make a well-informed choice. At FEP, we are committed to promoting high-quality European parquet flooring worldwide. Let's build a more sustainable future together!