You want new flooring but also want to be eco-aware. But aren’t all eco-conscious flooring options bland and boring? Nope! This may well have been the case a few years ago, but not any longer. In fact, eco flooring has come a long way since the days of unimaginative materials. Here are some of the most popular (and quite frankly, beautiful) options.
Lino
We’ve mentioned linoleum before, mostly because it’s underrated. This incredible flooring option was invented in 1860, but fell out of favour in the 1960s when vinyl became popular. And now it’s back with a vengeance! Its eco properties include the fact that it is made from natural products (unlike vinyl), avoiding petrochemicals that are harmful to both health and the environment.
Bamboo
Bamboo is sustainable by nature because it replenishes so quickly — it takes just three to five years for bamboo to mature, whereas a tree takes around twenty years. It’s a great alternative to hardwood and has an array of grains and colour tones that allow for customisation.
Concrete
Concrete usually makes up the sub flooring in properties, but if polished and tinted can become a flooring option in its own right. It’s a super strong, easily cleaned and customisable option that is widely available.
Cork
Not just to plug the top of your favourite bottle of wine, cork has become en vogue as an eco-flooring option. Cork is manufactured from the bark of a cork oak tree, which means the tree doesn’t have to be cut down. The bark renews every three years, making it a brilliant renewable option. On top of that, it also repels insects, is anti-microbial and fire-retardant. What’s not to love?
With modern manufacturing processes and a bit of creative thinking, you can transform your home while reducing your environmental impact. We call that a win-win!