Green Hardwood Floor? Myths vs Facts

Flooring is an essential part of any home or building. It is the foundation of the space and can make a significant impact on the overall look and feel of the area. However, with the increasing concern for the environment, choosing environmentally friendly flooring options has become more important than ever. If you are in the market for new flooring, here are some tips on how to choose environmentally friendly options, excluding tiles.

1. Choose hardwood flooring that is sustainably sourced

Contrary to popular belief, hardwood flooring is very sustainable. Just make sure it is sustainably and legally sourced. This means that the wood is harvested in a way that does not damage the environment or deplete resources. Look for flooring made from wood that is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). The FSC sets standards for responsible forest management, and products with their certification have met these standards.
The FSC operates a certification system that verifies the responsible management of forests and the products that come from them. It uses satellite technology to monitor the harvesting and replanting efforts. This system ensures that forests are managed in a way that protects the environment, respects the rights of workers and communities, and provides economic benefits to local people.

2. Consider reclaimed wood flooring

Reclaimed wood flooring is a sustainable option that is also unique and beautiful. It is made from salvaged wood from old buildings or boats that would otherwise be discarded. Reclaimed wood can add character and charm to a space while also reducing waste. But these can be very costly, and rare.

Another example is Hevea wood, also known as rubberwood, is a versatile and sustainable material that has gained popularity in recent years for its use in furniture and flooring. Hevea wood is primarily grown for latex production. Once the tree reaches the end of its latex-producing life cycle, the wood is harvested and used for furniture and other products.

Hevea wood is also very durable. Hevea wood is a dense and sturdy material that is less prone to warping, cracking, or splitting than other types of wood. This makes it an excellent choice for flooring, especially in high traffic areas of the home.

3. Consider bamboo flooring

Bamboo flooring is a good environmentally friendly option. Bamboo is a renewable resource that grows quickly, making it a sustainable material. Additionally, bamboo is durable and easy to maintain, which makes it perfect for high traffic areas in the home. It is also versatile and comes in a variety of finishes, from light to dark.
However, bamboo readily absorbs water and is susceptible to damage from water and excessive humidity, and it is dimensionally unstable. It expands one direction at the node and the other in the rest of the section.
To alleviate this the manufacturers came up with strand bamboo. Which is shredded and compressed into a board (which is not environmentally friendly anymore, because they use a lot of glue and chemicals), which makes it extremely hard and therefore brittle. The installation guidelines are nearly impossible to achieve regarding flatness and moisture content of the subfloor.

4. Opt for cork flooring

Cork flooring is an environmentally friendly option that is also durable and attractive. Cork is harvested from the bark of cork oak trees, which grow back quickly after harvesting. Additionally, cork is naturally resistant to insects, mold, and mildew, making it ideal for homes with allergy sufferers or those concerned about indoor air quality.
Cork is a relatively soft material, which means that it can be vulnerable to dents and scratches. Heavy furniture or high heels can leave marks on the cork surface. However, the durability of cork flooring can be improved by applying a high-quality finish and avoiding dragging furniture or other heavy objects across the surface.
Now over time, cork flooring can fade due to exposure to sunlight or UV rays. This can result in a patchy appearance and require costly repairs. To avoid this issue, it is essential to choose high-quality cork flooring that is treated with a UV-resistant finish.

5. Avoid vinyl flooring

Vinyl flooring is a popular option because it is inexpensive and easy to install. However, vinyl is not an environmentally friendly option. It is made from non-renewable resources and can emit harmful chemicals into the air, including phthalates and other VOCs.

6. Choose linoleum flooring

Linoleum is a natural flooring material made from linseed oil, wood flour, and other natural ingredients. It is biodegradable, non-toxic, and easy to maintain. Additionally, linoleum is available in a variety of colors and patterns, making it a versatile choice for any space.

7. Opt for natural fiber area rug

If you prefer carpeting, choose natural fiber area rugs such as wool or sisal. First, these fibers are renewable resources and are biodegradable. Secondly, area rugs aren’t permanent - they can be removed and cleaned while keeping your flooring intact. Additionally, natural fiber rugs is non-toxic and does not emit harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds) into the air.

8. Look for flooring with low VOCs

VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) are chemicals that can be emitted from flooring and other building materials. They can be harmful to the environment and human health. When choosing flooring, look for options with low VOC emissions. Manufacturers for California must adhere to the State’s strict standards.

9. Choose flooring with a long lifespan

When choosing flooring, opt for options that will last a long time. This reduces the need for replacement and can ultimately save resources and money. Additionally, longer-lasting flooring options often require less maintenance and upkeep.

In conclusion, choosing environmentally friendly flooring is essential for the health of the planet and the people who inhabit it. Bamboo, sustainably sourced hardwood, cork, linoleum, reclaimed wood, natural fiber rugs, low VOC options, and long-lasting materials are all excellent choices. Avoiding vinyl flooring is also crucial for reducing environmental impact. By making thoughtful choices, you can create a beautiful and sustainable home that you can be proud of.

Last Words

We know how a flooring project is a huge undertaking for you. But if you’re not in a rush, I encourage you to shop around. Then check us out. We're a Factory Direct Retailer, so our hardwood prices are guaranteed cheaper than any other retailer. We import the materials ourselves, passing along the savings to you. We have pro installers with 15+ years of experience, at your service. Should you have any further questions, please email us at hello@redeemedflooring.com.