Eco-Friendly Flooring Options
Vinyl flooring is made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is a recyclable plastic. It can be recycled again and again without losing its quality or performance. It is also durable and easy to clean.
The recycling of these materials reduces the demand for virgin plastic, thereby conserving natural resources like petroleum. It also reduces energy consumption, which contributes to lower carbon footprints and higher sustainability.
Environmentally friendly
The production of eco-friendly flooring requires a number of different materials. The most popular are natural rubber, recycled rubber, and reclaimed rubber. Each of these materials has unique characteristics that set them apart from each other. However, they all provide a sustainable alternative to other flooring materials. Natural rubber is derived from the Hevea brasiliensis plant, which grows in forests throughout the world. It is harvested using a fully sustainable process. It is durable and withstands the impact of heavy equipment.
Recycled plastic flooring is also made from a variety of other products. For example, carpeting can be made from repurposed plastic bottles. The company Mohawk offers a line of eco-conscious carpet called EverStrand, which is made from recycled PET polyester fibers.
Another environmentally friendly flooring option is linoleum. This type of flooring is durable, affordable, and resistant to water, scratches, and stains. It’s also antibacterial, which makes it a good choice for hygienic environments. Moreover, it can be easily cleaned and sanitized.
Durable
If you’re looking for a durable flooring option that is also environmentally friendly, consider plastic-composite laminate or vinyl tile. These flooring options are easy to clean, offer an array of design choices and can mimic other materials such as wood or marble. Plus, they’re easy to install. Some are even designed to decrease sound.
The manufacturing process for recycled plastic flooring reduces the need to use natural resources like oil. Additionally, the tiles are impervious to harsh outside forces, making them more resistant to moisture. This helps to cut down on maintenance costs and waste.
Many companies specialize in using recycled plastic to create eco-friendly carpeting. For example, Mohawk Flooring uses recycled PET polyester fibers to produce their EverStrand line of carpeting. Their products are made from more than 30 billion recycled plastic bottles and offer sustainability, stain protection and durability. In addition, their ECOcomfort underlayment provides resilience and cushioning. RC Musson offers rubber sport rolled and interlocking tiles that use up to 95% post-consumer recycled rubber and are slip-resistant. Their products are Cradle to Cradle certified and can be returned at the end of their life for reuse or recycle into new flooring.
Affordable
Recycled plastic flooring is a great choice for the environment. It is durable, affordable, and easy to maintain. It also helps reduce energy costs and keeps plastic out of landfills. However, some recycled plastics contain additives that can affect performance and safety.
Cork flooring is another eco-friendly option. It is a renewable resource, growing back each year and requiring no pesticides or fungicides to grow. It also absorbs sound and provides insulation from heat and cold. Its average price is $3-$12 per square foot.
Linoleum is made from linseed oil, which makes it a sustainable and eco-friendly flooring option. It is also water-resistant and stain-proof. It can be made into a variety of designs and is resistant to scratches. It is a great choice for high-traffic areas, as it can be easily cleaned and is antibacterial.
Easy to install
Recycled plastic flooring is easy to install and comes in a variety of styles. It is durable and spill-resistant. It also decreases noise and is available in many pleasing colors and patterns. It is also cost-effective.
Another advantage of eco-friendly floors is that they’re long-lasting, which reduces the frequency of floor replacements. They’re also aesthetically appealing and offer more comfort than carpets. The repurposed materials eco-friendly flooring is made of also help the environment by reducing carbon footprints and lowering energy consumption.
Some recycled vinyl flooring products contain phthalates, which can have short- and long-term health effects. To avoid this, choose a product that is low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Look for the GREENGUARD or FloorScore certification. These certifications ensure that the flooring does not emit VOCs, which can cause health issues. VOCs are emitted as gasses and can be toxic to humans. They can also contribute to respiratory diseases, such as asthma and lung conditions.