As the realities of climate change become apparent, homeowners are increasingly looking to sustainable materials to reduce the environmental impact of home improvement projects. Flooring covers every square foot of your home and is a big piece of the eco-friendly picture. At the same time, a troubled economy makes it necessary to keep your eye on the bottom line. Here are three affordable green options to put something beautiful beneath your feet while reducing your carbon footprint.
Vinyl Hardwood is a popular and pricey flooring material that unfortunately takes a toll on old-growth forests. The environmental impact of mining makes slate less attractive. Modern eco-friendly vinyl flooring is manufactured using recycled materials to mimic the look of hardwood, slate and ceramic tile with a durable finish and a reasonable price. Vinyl is easy to install, simple to clean, less delicate than wood or stone and lasts years longer than carpet. Distinctive earthscapes flooring combines cutting edge designer patterns with an exclusive cushioning layer that delivers a soft finish and feels warm underfoot.Bamboo Bamboo is a fast-growing grass, ready for harvest in as little as six years. Instead of being destroyed by cutting, bamboo stalks quickly produce new growth, resulting in several crops from the same plant. Thirteen percent harder than maple and 27 percent harder than oak and with a distinctive “grain,” bamboo is a strong, sturdy and sustainable flooring option. Bamboo is water and scratch resistant and interlocking planks make installation a snap. Bamboo can be very inexpensive, but be aware that because bamboo is grown in Asia, manufacturingmethods vary, and overseas transportation costs have a negative impact on bamboo’s green status
Concrete The introduction of pigments and decorative elements along with modern finishing techniques has made industrial concrete the floor of the future. Concrete is made from limestone, the most abundant mineral on earth. Naturally insulating, concrete absorbs the heat of the sun during the day and releases it at night. Durable concrete floors are designed to last a lifetime and never need replacement. The cost of concrete floors will vary by the complexity of the design and the size of the surface. Sleekly modern concrete may not work for every homeowner, especially those who favor softer, traditional décor.
Choosing environmentally friendly flooring is a great way to do something nice for the planet and your pocketbook. Whether you ultimately decide to use concrete, bamboo or earthscapes flooring, you can congratulate yourself for saving money while going green.
