| ST. LOUIS, Missouri (October 15, 2005) – Does someone in your home suffer from allergies? According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 50 million Americans suffer from allergies. Even more alarming, allergies are the sixth leading cause of chronic disease in the United States. Children, in particular, are most vulnerable. Fortunately, in most cases, allergies can be controlled. How? By avoiding the triggers that cause them. Obviously, environmental triggers can be controlled only to a degree, but one of the areas that has the most impact on allergens is the family home. Eliminating dust, mold and animal dander can have a huge impact on the home environment. One of the easiest ways to accomplish this is to replace your old, worn out flooring with hardwood floors. According to an EPA study, wood floors do not harbor allergens, microorganisms or harmful pesticides that can be tracked in from outdoors. In addition, dust, mold and animal dander contamination is minimal in homes with wood floors. Based on these EPA findings, wood floors promote a healthier living, and work, environment. Wood is easy to maintain as well. Simply sweep the floor regularly with a soft-bristle broom or dust mop to remove surface dirt and debris. If your floor contains beveled edges, use a vacuum with a soft bristle brush attachment to remove dirt and debris from between the floorboards. That’s all there is to it. |