Wood is commonly acknowledged as an environmentally friendly material, a naturally renewable resource, and an ecologically sound choice. Seasoned wood floors are being revitalized more and more today. This is done not only to refresh the appearance and serviceability, but also to meet increased demands in living spaces.

A growing phenomenon in North America is the trend towards eco-efficient surface protection on wood floors. Natural hardwood products are useful to the consumer and a government regulatory an objective. The California Environmental Protection Agency (CARB) is setting standards under the airborne toxic control measure (ATCM). California aims to cut greenhouse-gas emissions in the state; setting stringent standards commonly accepted as North America's point of reference.

The mission of CARB is to promote and protect public health, welfare and ecological resources through the effective and efficient reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering the effects on the economy of the state. Some of their goals include public protection from exposure to toxic air contaminants, the reduction of emissions of greenhouse gases and innovative approaches for complying with air pollution rules and regulations.

To meet the changing standards in North America, floor finishers are moving towards using European-standard self-curing oils. These oils, used as natural hardwood products, are made largely from renewable resources: natural plant oils and nature related raw materials; free of formaldehyde and aromatics. High solid (HS) oils meet European Commission VOC decopaint regulations.

HS Oils do not seal the wood pores. As the wood breathes, the floor contributes to a healthy indoor environment by regulating humidity. The oiled floor keeps its natural touch and is impervious to water and dirt. In addition to being environmentally friendly, these oils are quick and economical and are suitably green hardwood products.

HS oils enhance the genuine beauty of wood; preserving its quality and value; enabling the finisher to revitalize old wood floors. Colourless high solid oils highlight the natural colour and structure of the wood, while pigmented high solid oils give the floor a translucent, rustic or exotic flavour, depending on the colour shade chosen. When considering natural based hardwood products, these HS oils work well on old wood floors where a build-up of residue is high.

Maintenance and cleaning is easy with this type of natural, protective, hardwood product. As with any sealed wood floor, regular vacuuming and a slight damp mopping with mild cleaning products are recommended. Specially designed wood soaps are highly effective; increasing the longevity and preserving the beauty.

West Wind Hardwood offers German quality wood finishes: high solid oils and wood soaps, and much more. Visit: www.westwindhardwood.com/natura_benefits.php. Image provided by West Wind Hardwood.