When it comes to environmentally friendly home flooring options, there are a lot of different choices out there. It can be overwhelming, but with a little research and a few questions, you’re sure to find the perfect flooring for your eco-friendly home!
The key is to choose a sustainable option that is also durable. Durable floors don’t require as much energy or carbon emissions to produce, which helps reduce the carbon footprint of your home.
Cork
Cork flooring is an eco-friendly home flooring option that can be incorporated into your design without compromising on style. The material is made from the bark of the cork oak tree and can be harvested in a way that doesn’t damage or destroy the trees.
The bark of the cork oak tree is naturally insect and fire resistant, so it’s an ideal choice for environmentally conscious homeowners looking to protect their homes from the elements. Plus, since the trees can be harvested multiple times in a row, cork flooring can last a long time, making it an extremely sustainable option for your next floor.
The material itself has a unique cellular structure (14-sided polyhedrons) that traps air, providing insulation and resiliency to the floors. It’s also incredibly soft, yet firm to the feet.
Hardwood
Hardwood flooring is a great choice for homeowners who want a long-lasting and eco-friendly option. It’s available in a variety of species, such as oak, cherry, and walnut, and can be stained to create different colors or patterns.
Wood floors are also more durable than other flooring options. They are easier to repair and refinish, and they can last for years without needing to be replaced or sanded.
However, there are many things to consider when choosing hardwood floors for your home. First, look for FSC certification to ensure that your wood is sourced from forests that are certified to be environmentally sound.
Another option is reclaimed wood, which is a sustainable alternative to traditional hardwoods. Reclaimed hardwood is sourced from old houses, barns and other buildings that are no longer in use. This reduces the environmental impact of harvesting and transporting the wood.
Recycled Tiles
Recycled tiles are a great option for eco-friendly homes. They can be used on floors and walls and can mimic classic tile designs without sacrificing style or sustainability.
Several companies produce beautiful ceramic, porcelain and glass tiles that are made with recycled materials. These products can be found at many home improvement stores.
One such company is Fireclay, a renowned brand known for their handmade tile and sustainable manufacturing processes. They offer a variety of tiles that are made with up to 52% recycled clay, which is typically salvaged from mining operations.
Another company that makes gorgeous, sustainable tiles is Oceanside Glasstile, a line of glass mosaics. They are made with silica sand, an abundant natural resource, and recycled glass in varying amounts. They are available in a variety of colors and styles. They also use lead-free glazes. This makes them safer for workers and a greener choice for eco-conscious homeowners.
Bamboo
Bamboo is one of the most popular sustainable flooring options available. It has many benefits: it sequesters carbon dioxide, reduces pollution, is 100 percent recyclable and grows in a variety of environments.
It also is naturally resistant to pests and termites, making it a safer option for your family’s health and the environment. It grows rapidly and can be harvested without negatively impacting the world’s rainforests.
In contrast, hardwood trees can take decades to mature and require repeated replanting. In addition, many hardwood species are invasive.
Unlike other natural woods, bamboo is highly resilient to damage and stains. This makes it a good choice for wetter climates where constant spillage is an issue.
In addition, bamboo flooring looks and feels like hardwood but is more affordable. It is also easier to install and requires less maintenance. It is available in a variety of stains and designs and can be customized to your tastes. It can also match your home’s design and style.