Using environmentally-friendly flooring does not have to mean compromising on style, performance or quality. In fact, there has never been a better time to choose one of the following flooring solutions that can benefit your design plans, your budget and the planet.
What a corker!
Cork is an increasingly popular flooring choice as it is made from harvested bark and does not need trees to be cut down. It also has allergen-reducing anti-microbial properties, is easy to maintain, is fire retardant, and can act as a natural insect repellent.
Cork, like laminate flooring and wood, can be finished off in a variety of ways to suit a multitude of design styles and functions. Its durability also adds to its versatility as it can last from ten to 30 years depending on its quality.
Not just for pandas
Bamboo flooring is a sustainable choice as the grass can mature in less than five years, making the process much faster than when trees are cut down.
Just like the many flooring types, bamboo is available in a variety of finishes and is naturally durable and easy to maintain.
A retro choice?
Many people think that linoleum and vinyl flooring are the same, but this is actually not the case. Whilst vinyl is synthetic, lino is made from ground limestone, tree resins, wood flour, cork dust and linseed oil.
It is water-resistant and fire-retardant, and new sealers now work to protect it from staining. This adds to its life expectancy and reputation as a hard-wearing and cost-effective choice.
A touch of glass
Tiles made from recycled glass can be a supremely stylish choice. These are also a practical option for bathrooms and kitchens as they are resistant to mould and mildew and won’t absorb moisture, even in damp environments. More information about glass recycling can be found at http://www.recycling-guide.org.uk/science-glass.html.
An enduring option
Carpeting is still a hugely popular flooring choice, and wool versions offer an environmentally-friendly option that also benefits from being incredibly versatile. Other natural materials available in carpet form also include cotton, jute, and sisal.
Carpet’s appeal is as enduring as the wool fibres themselves. It was one of the first materials ever to be used as a floor covering, and good examples of woven wool carpets and rugs can last for generations.