There are so many flooring types from which to choose – and fortunately, many of them available today would classify as “green” – meaning non-toxic and a wise use of resources. But with such vast selection comes the need to make a decision – and it can be hard to wade through all of those choices and pick the best option for you and your situation – unless you know more about the pros and cons of each choice.
We’ll talk here about the wise array of flooring types available to you – and you can feel more confident making your final decision after you have some solid research available at your fingertips.
In the hardwood flooring arena, you have various types of hardwood, and you can opt for either finished or unfinished wood. Unfinished wood is then installed and sealed on site. In addition to the purchase of new wood, many people are looking into reclaimed wood – to re-use a natural resource and add a sense of beauty and age at the same time. Have you heard of bamboo hardwood flooring? It is becoming more popular today. Bamboo is actually a fast-growing grass, is highly sustainable, and is said to be harder than actual wood. The manufacturing process is critical though, so be certain to do your “due diligence” on the company that is selling it.
Cork flooring is also making a comeback! Although it has a wood-type look, it is soft, resilient, and absorbs sound in a room, making it easy on the back and knees, and offering a bit of soundproofing as well. Cork also comes in tiles, and can be found in differing shades of color.
What about carpet? Although traditional carpet is replete with chemicals, there is now “green” carpeting available – non-toxic choices in various textures and styles. It is deserving of a closer look if you love the feel of carpet under your feet, but don’t want
the toxic air resulting from your typical brands.
Then there is laminate flooring – a kind of plastic feel with more of a wood-like look. Laminate flooring is cheaper than wood – but the resale value is likely to be less as well.
Linoleum flooring is making a comeback – and with natural linoleum being not only non-toxic but long lasting as well (some call it the “20 year floor”), it’s popularity is not likely to go away any time soon. Available in various shades of marbling, and in tiles as well, the options for creative design in various rooms in your home are beyond description!
Stone flooring comes in many shapes and with numerous options – from travertine and marble, to all kinds of tiles. Although there isn’t really much “give” to a stone floor, its beauty and value offer wide appeal to many people – even if it is used only in the bathrooms, kitchen, or in limited areas throughout the home.
Vinyl flooring is one of the least expensive options, but is filled with chemicals and plasticizers – not exactly your best choice in terms of health.
There you have it – an overview of many of the flooring options available to you.
Enjoy your research and your final selection of a new flooring option for your home.