Q: I recently found out I have allergies to dust mites and many trees, including hickory. Our home has new hardwood flooring that’s hickory. Is it possible to be allergic to that hardwood? Should we add a sealant?
Dr. Bassett: For allergies, many hard-surface flooring products are preferred over carpeting, such as hardwood, tile or stone. These are easier to keep free of indoor allergens, including pet dander, house dust mites and molds.
In addressing your question, the type of hardwood chosen for flooring, whether it is sourced from oak, maple or hickory, is not the issue. This is because seasonal allergy symptoms are triggered by airborne pollen, and not a tree’s wood. It’s the pollen to which you have developed allergic sensitivity.
