Green Floors - Environment Friendly Floor Choices
January 18th, 2008 by admin
The word of the day is undoubtedly eco-friendly.
Environmental friendly issues are assuming greater importance with each passing day and the flooring industry too has had to deal with the delicate problems of sustainability and health. Laws are being introduced to protect deforestation as well as eliminate the use of certain harmful substances used in the manufacture of carpets and PVC.
There are several flooring options available now; that are suitable for the environment, as well as for people suffering from various diseases. These kinds of environmental friendly flooring choices avoid the use of toxic chemicals in their composition that are good for people afflicted with ailments, especially those suffering from allergies, eczema and asthma. Some of these eco-friendly options are:
Bamboo floors
Bamboo feels and looks like hardwood and offers the same appeal as wood. By virtue of it being grass and not wood which can be easily replenished, cutting down of bamboo does not pose a threat to the environment in any major way. The bamboo used in flooring is harvested from managed plantations and grows back in about three to four years. Bamboo floors look sleek and stylish and are much cheaper than solid wood. Moreover they are strong and versatile and more resistant to water than timber. It is a favorite of most eco-conscious homeowners.
Cork flooring
Cork is a sustainable material got from the bark of the tree without damaging the tree from which it is removed. In fact harvesting of the cork bark stimulates the growth of the tree and thus it acts as an ideal substitute for wood. Cork flooring feels soft and warm underfoot and comes in several colors and designs. It is not only durable but helps to reduce the transmission of sound, vibration and heat making it a great insulator.
Recycled glass
Old beer and wine bottles are now being recycled as part of an eco-friendly project to be ultimately made into glass floor tiles. Designers have capitalized on the cracking and bubbling of the bottle occurring during the recycling process to bring out the visually aesthetic appeal present in the resulting glass tiles.
Linoleum flooring
The primary benefits of linoleum, however common it may be, are that it is biodegradable and does not give out toxic fumes like most other substances. It is made from linseed oil, wood flour, pine resin and ground limestone spread on jute backing making it practical and durable. Linoleum is the eco-friendly substitute to vinyl and is warm, flexible and anti-bacterial. It is available in a variety of colors and is also a good sound absorber.
Natural fiber floors
This product is biodegradable and is made from sisal, sea grass and coir. Many of the third world countries benefit from their local sustainable resources. By virtue of being a natural product it is not riddled with nasty pesticides and chemicals.
Recycled rubber flooring
Shredded tires are used to make rubber carpet padding and rubber flooring. Every 100 square feet of flooring prevents at east 7-8 tires from being dumped into the landfill. It is waterproof, hygienic and durable and comes in textured or smooth surface.
William Brister - http://www.flooringworld.tv - Beautiful and Durable Floors
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