Eco-friendliness, resource conservation, and sustainability are becoming more integral in every decision we make. From material selections and appliances to elements of home construction and remodeling, both contractors and homeowners are focusing on eco-friendly flooring options. Many of these options use less energy to produce or are made from recycled and renewable materials.
As the focus on sustainability is now prioritized by product designers, new materials are attractive yet more economical than conventional, non-sustainable materials. Flooring options have taken center stage in the quest for beautiful and sustainable alternatives. Many current choices are also more economical than what was offered in the past.
Below are some flooring materials that most professional designers and design-build contractors are switching to.
Bamboo
Although officially a grass, bamboo offers the same characteristics as hardwood. However, the plants reach maturity and become usable in only two or three years. Hardwood trees, require more than twenty years to mature sufficiently to harvest. Thus, an acre of land can produce about ten times more volume of bamboo than hardwood.
Bamboo is naturally a light-colored material, however, it can be finished to match your style and preference.
Cork
In the past, cork was a popular wall covering option. The material is produced from the bark of a particular tree species that typically grow in Portugal, Spain, and other Mediterranean countries. The material is the ultimate renewable resource since these same trees will re-grow new bark within three years.
Like bamboo, cork can be finished in any stain to match the surroundings and is highly durable. It lasts up to thirty years, depending on the traffic.
Glass Tiles
Glass tile is made from recycled glass bottles and jars that are sent to the recycling center. The tiles are beautiful, durable, and available in various color and pattern options. This flooring tends to reflect rather than absorb light as ceramic tiles do, making the room brighter and seem larger.
Concrete
While usually a sub-flooring option, you can use polished and tinted concrete to match your home’s style. It is a durable, easy-to-clean flooring option that can last a lifetime.
Rubber
Rubber flooring, made from recycled tires and other rubber materials, works beautifully in kitchens, sunrooms, and bathrooms. Truly comfortable to walk on, rubber flooring options can come in many colors and textures and are durable.
Rubber flooring, with its resilient surface, is also an excellent solution for children’s playrooms.
Reclaimed Hardwood
While there is no argument that hardwood makes for beautiful and long-lasting flooring, opting for reclaimed hardwood is a great and sustainable solution. Reclaimed hardwood can be a product of salvaging flooring and woodwork from older or demolished structures.
The result is using wood from trees that were likely chopped down long ago.
Another eco-friendly category of reclaimed hardwood is flooring that is FSC certified. This classification is awarded by the Forest Stewardship Council which recognizes forestry management practices that promote and adhere to high social and environmental standards.
Embrace Eco-Friendly Standards with Master’s Design Build
The Master’s Design Build Group professionals embrace the highest standards of quality, sustainability, and economy in all phases of their construction and remodel projects.
Serving Eastern Pennsylvania for over a decade, Master’s Design Build, headquartered in Hatfield, PA manages each of its projects from the initial brainstorming session to the final walkthrough to ensure the results match the client’s dreams and objectives.
To view many of the Master’s Design Build Group’s exciting, eco-friendly project results, visit their online Gallery of Projects.
You may contact Master’s Design Build for an in-person consultation by opening the Let’s Talk Page on the website and completing the brief information form. One of the Master’s professionals will contact you promptly to discuss your questions.
Alternatively, you may contact Master’s Design Build Group directly at +1-215-723-6162.
