The History of a Business
Millwood Specialty Flooring in Ellijay has a long history of providing floors for homes across the world.  Since the 1930’s, this business has undergone amazing changes, from owners to locations to productions.  (It used to be called Appalachian Oak Flooring and located on Old Hwy. 5 South.)  Yet, through it all, there is a standard of excellence and a sense of family that keeps the business successful.  “We take care of each other,” says Nanci DuBarton, the plant controller.  “We’re committed to the industry, the community and the employees.”  The owners, Jeff and Lori Mellencamp, were devoted customers for over 20 years before they bought the business.  The Mellencamps decided to open up their wholesale flooring plant to the public.  “We sell more retail now than we do wholesale trailers,” says George Jones, the plant manager. 

In 1986, around the time when the wood industry really began to come into its own, Millwood Specialty Flooring moved to its current location on Progress Road in Ellijay, the former site of an old spinning mill.  Currently producing 15,000-22,000 square feet per day, Millwood Flooring is capable of providing materials for everyone from individual homeowners to large construction firms. “We love walk-in customers,” smiles George.  “We’re here to serve our local community and we want them to know we can help.”

We have employees who are committed to producing the finest quality hardwood flooring available anywhere.  That one of the many reasons that customer “Love Our Wood”.

Advantages of Buying Direct
Buying from the manufacturer has the obvious advantage of a price savings (at least 50 cents or more per square foot), but there’s more to it than that.  Buying direct means there won’t be a lack of supply or availability.  “You can get anything we make anytime,” explains George.  “We can package it, deliver it and recommend installers.”  Homeowners can even see the consistent quality of flooring produced right in front of them.  With almost 80 years of proficiency, trust, and customer service, it’s hard to imagine a better option for your home.  For example, George has been an employee of Millwood Specialty Flooring since 1975.  It’s doubtful there is a man who knows more about producing a quality hardwood floor than he does.  When a customer comes to the Millwood plant, he is assured of having experience behind the advice he is given.

Types of Flooring Choices
There are many choices of wood for a homeowner.  There are red and white oak available, cut at 2 ¼”, 3 ¼”, 4” and 5”.  A homeowner has a choice of either pre-finished wood or unfinished.  The unfinished wood has 5 grades: clear, rift and quartered, select and better, #1 common, #2 common, and #3 common.  Each grade has its own characteristics and grade selection will depend on the final look to be achieved.  Unfinished wood is also able to be stained.  Millwood Flooring also offers custom orders.  For example, a homeowner can ask for longer boards or a combination of widths. “We strive to provide personalized service,” says Nanci.  “Our customers tell us they love our wood and we do everything we can to satisfy their needs.”

While there is no substitute for finished on-site floors, the other option for homeowners is pre-finished flooring.  Perfect for the do-it-yourself type of person, pre-finished flooring saves on time, mess and convenience.  For the first-time installer, there are many on-line resources and books available.

The Benefit of Hardwood Floors
A wood floor in a home has many advantages.  If properly maintained, it can last past a lifetime.  George cites the Biltmore House in Asheville, NC as an example.  The owners have kept its wood floors in pristine condition since it was built over 100 years ago.  “There’s nothing that captures your eye like a beautifully finished hardwood floor,” says George.  “It has beauty and warmth unlike anything else.”  Wood flooring offers strength to the structure of the home.  For people with allergies, it’s incredibly easy to clean and keep free of dust.  Just a little vinegar and water (or a cleaner specifically for hardwood floors), will keep it lovely for years to come.  Hardwood floors truly are an investment for a lifetime, but if a homeowner decides to sell, the value added to the home by the floors can be calculated in the price the home brings.

Not only is it an investment in the future, but hardwood floors bring a bit of nature’s warmth inside your home.  Whether it’s a golden floor of absolute perfection or stained boards in various patterns, there is an option for every homeowner looking to improve their life.  Look no further than Millwood Specialty Flooring.

credit: Appalachian Country Magazine Vol. 6, Issue 4, May 2010. www.acmagazine.com