Everything has a beginning, even hardwood flooring. That’s right. Believe it or not, there was a time when hardwood flooring wasn’t standard in homes or businesses. Sounds crazy, doesn’t it?
The History of Hardwood Flooring: The Beginning
Hardwood didn’t hit the scene until 1625 when the wealthy began incorporating wood flooring with ornate, elegant designs. Before this time, floors were nothing more than dirt smoothed out to make a flat surface.
The History of Hardwood Flooring: The New World
As Europeans began settling in the New World, America, the colonist did not have much. What they did have, however, was an abundance of natural resources, including trees. So it only made sense that they build their homes completely of wood, including the floors.
Unlike the hardwood floors of the 1600s, these floors were unfinished and un-carved, as colonist opted for comfort over style.
The History of Hardwood Flooring: Mass Production
As hardwood floors caught on in the late 1800s and 1900s, there became a need for mass production. Known at the time as “wood carpet,” these hardwood floors were still not as ornate as those in the homes of the wealthy, but they definitely gave homes an aesthetic appeal unmatched by other flooring of the period. This wood carpet consisted of wood slats glued to a heavy cotton canvas. The floor, which came in rolls that were 3-foot wide, would be rolled and tacked down about every foot.
Once installed, the floors would be filled, sanded and finished.
The History of Hardwood Flooring: Alternative Flooring
In the 1920s, we were introduced to such flooring options as cork and linoleum. Both were easier to install and maintain than hardwood floors. Because of this, the popularity of hardwood took a hit.
In the 1940s, broadloom carpet hit the scene, further condemning hardwood.
The History of Hardwood Flooring: The Comeback
In the late 1940s, hardwood made a comeback. Aren’t you happy we live in a world with hardwood flooring?
Interested in a Custom Hardwood Floor in Baltimore, Maryland?
At John K. Eareckson & Co., we pride ourselves on providing the best quality and craftsmanship in the Baltimore-Washington area, from custom hardwood installation and repairs to refinishing. We know a thing or two about hardwood floors.
If you have any questions about Custom Hardwood Floors Baltimore, please contact John K. Eareckson & Co. by calling 410-788-4200 or visitJKEHardwoodFlooring.com today for a free quote regarding any of your hardwood flooring needs. You can also follow us on Facebook, Google+, and Twitter!