FRIENDLY FLOORING
Alternative materials for modern interiors.
I typically try to avoid home improvements and using the earth’s resources unnecessarily. However, carpet can pose quite a health risk, especially as it ages. There are many eco-friendly flooring options available these days. All it takes is a little research.
While carpet does cushion our steps, it also harbors dust mites, chemicals and mold. Carpet can also emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs include a variety of chemicals, some of which may present short- and long-term adverse health effects. Carpet can also contain pestisicides from indoor contaminants.
It is vital that consumers select carpets and rugs that are sustainable. There is quite an array of these on the market today, at competitive prices. Look for carpets made from natural fibers and little or no chemical treatments. Also, make sure the carpet was manufactured using a natural fiber backing, which will contain less toxic adhesives. Most traditional carpet requires the use of glue during installation. Chemical-based glue can cause health and respiratory complications. Tacking carpet down is a safe alternative to glue and much better for the health of your home. If you chose to use glue, buy one with a water base and low VOCs.
Avoiding carpet altogether is the most eco- and health-friendly option. There are many eco-friendly flooring companies that take pride in providing beautiful flooring that employs no chemicals and protects the environment. Many of these rely exclusively on the use of recycled plastics and soda bottles. These products are post-consumer materials, so it counteracts the disposal of waste production in landfills.
Mod Materials.
-Cork is sustainable, attractive, long-lasting and it's great for those folks who suffer from allergies. Cork is a green product because the same tree can be harvested numerous times. It comes in a variety of colors and can be made to look like stone or tile so there is something for everyone. Plus, it’s easy to install. However, try not to buy from a company that uses formaldehyde on the cork and ensure the varnish used is water-based.
-Bamboo flooring is great because it replenishes itself in the wild. By using bamboo, you help preserve the habitat of endangered wildlife, unlike the harvesting of other hardwoods. Bamboo resembles hardwood flooring. Because of this, some companies use sealants and waxes that contain VOCs, so make sure you buy from an eco-friendly company.
-Lyptus brand products are a hybrid of two species of eucalyptus trees. The trees grow to full size in less than 25 years and are being used extensively in replanting the rain forests of South America.
-Laminate is probably not as eco-friendly as the types mentioned above. The benefit of laminate is that it is affordable and can have the appearance of wood. Adhesives and coatings used in the manufacturing of laminate flooring are water-based products, and it comes free of solvents, wood preservatives, and other chemicals that could agitate allergies or asthma, making laminate a healthier and better environmental choice than hardwood. Most comes as floating floors, which are easy to click together, and you don’t have to use glue. However, few laminate products are made with sustainable wood so this is something you need to research before you make your purchase.
