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, manufacturing
methods 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.
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