Drive through any neighborhood on trash day and you will see that most homes in the United States recycle. In some areas, recycling accounts for more volume than trash pick-up, which is a good thing. Recycling helps to reduce global warming as resources are reused, which not only eliminates landfill waste, but also minimizes the natural resources required to manufacture new materials as opposed to reusing those that already exist.

When most people think of recycling, they think of the obvious things: aluminum, paper, and plastic. There is an even larger item in many U.S. homes that can be recycled time and time again: real wood floors.

Wood floors are the only flooring option that can be renewed when they start to look dull and worn out. With a process called pad and recoat, wood floors can be renewed to their original beauty and luster. 

Using the pad and recoat process, the wood floor is cleaned thoroughly using a professional cleaning product specifically designed for that floor. Then, the floor is buffed lightly to abrade the surface. Next, the floor is cleaned again to remove all dust and other residue. Finally, a new finish is applied to the floor, giving the existing floor new life, added protection, and renewed luster. In most cases, the floor can be used again within just 48 hours.

When the time comes that the wood floor can no longer be renewed, the wood can be recycled or even used for fuel. Before you get to this point, the floor can be sanded and refinished, which is different than pad and recoat. Check with your local professional on the best option for your floor.
 
Find a wood flooring professional in your area who can help bring new life to your wood floors.