As time marches on, consumer preferences and environmental concerns lead to changes in every market, and hardwood flooring is no different. Rising consumer preference for wider and longer planks, increased domestic manufacturing and a move to sustainable production are only a few of the major changes to take place in the hardwood industry in recent years. In the Milwaukee, Racine, and Chicago areas, My Affordable Floors is your hardwood flooring expert, and we’re always on top of the newest trends in the industry.
The move in consumer preference from shorter, narrow planks to wider and longer planks is possibly the most significant change in the industry, a change which continues to take the hardwood industry by storm. It came as a surprise to many in the industry, but this new consumer preference has become clear as many homeowners choose long, wide planks for their new hardwood installations. The majority of American hardwood flooring products hitting the market fit into this trend, and continue to gain traction because they look great in the open floor plans currently seen in home design. Less seams in these larger spaces is seen as a more sophisticated, modern design, creating a cleaner and more inviting pattern on the floor.
This move to longer, wider planks has also contributed to a shift from solid to engineered wood, the platform offers more design versatility than solid wood. It is much more difficult and expensive to manufacture wide planks in solid wood, and engineered wood allows cost savings in wider planks while retaining a natural look.
Along with larger and longer sizes comes a consumer preference for more natural, authentic flooring products free from harmful chemicals and emissions, fueling a move to more domestic manufacturing. All the major flooring manufacturers are much more concerned about ensuring that their products meet health standards than even just 5 years ago. The consumer trend here is for locally-sourced, safe, and authentic materials for their homes, and American-made products fit the bill.
At My Affordable Floors, we expect these trends will continue, and we’re prepared to serve our customers’ needs no matter what the newest trends are. You can expect our expert work, quality materials, fantastic customer service, and affordable value on each and every job.
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My Affordable Floors is your hardwood flooring expert in Milwaukee! Call us today at 262-653-1120 for a free, no-obligation estimate, or fill out our contact form to schedule a free, in-home visit.
