As a society, we are slowly but surely becoming more environmentally friendly and socially responsible. We have seen an increase in people exploring green practices to make their homes eco-friendlier, including investing in sustainable options.
Now you may be thinking, what makes a flooring option sustainable? By definition, sustainable refers to something that is capable of being maintained. Choosing sustainable products for your home means picking ones that are high quality and built to last. Eco-friendly flooring means it was sourced from a company that manages forests responsibly, and is FSC certified. FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) is devoted to ensuring that forests are regrown, biodiversity is preserved, and air and water quality is protected. The non-profit’s stamp of approval indicates that forest operations met their extensive criteria including protecting wildlife, minimizing the use of toxic chemicals, and not being sourced via clear cutting.
Wood is one of the best eco-friendly and renewable materials you can choose for your home. Fewer raw materials are used to create wood flooring products, and they also require less energy and natural resources. If you’re interested in installing eco-friendly flooring in your home, keep an eye out for these sustainable wood flooring options:
Palm Wood
Palm trees that no longer produce coconuts are getting a second life as flooring. Typically, trees that do not produce coconuts are burned or dumped. When reclaimed for flooring it helps keep more of the rainforests intact by becoming a source of income for the farmers. Palm wood is a great versatile option for both homes and businesses as it its hard-wearing qualities are well suited for high traffic areas. Being a dense hardwood, it is less prone to damage.
Cork
Cork is a great versatile eco-friendly option with plenty of benefits. Cork comes from the bark of the cork oak tree, which can be harvested without harming the tree. The bark regenerates within three years, which makes cork a particularly renewable resource. Cork is also anti-microbial, it does not produce off-gas that can damage the quality of the air in your home. Additionally, it does not develop mold or mildew. It is considered a durable option due to its soft sponge like texture. It can sustain regular wear and tear and will not succumb to dents or gouges because of its unique texture. Cork is a natural insulator, it will feel warm to touch, rather than ice cold during the winter months. Lastly, cork is a great noise absorber making it a great option for high traffic areas, or loud spaces, like recording studios, where you would prefer sound not to travel.
Interested in exploring sustainable flooring options for your next flooring project? Give us a call, or stop by the showroom!