Many homeowners do not just base their interior design decisions over what would look good in a glossy magazine. Increasingly, people are thinking about environmental considerations when picking their curtains, fixtures and fittings, and furniture these days.
They are also taking climate change into account when deciding on what carpet or vinyl to opt for, so they can make the most sustainable choice for their flooring.
What are the sustainable options with flooring?
Manufacturers are not only trying to help governments to meet net zero targets but are also aware that buyers want green options, which means the choice of sustainable flooring is expanding.
Recycled vinyl flooring
Many vinyl flooring products have recycled content, using less virgin resources and reducing the amount being taken to landfill.
Vinyl flooring can last for up to 20 years and does not need to be changed as frequently as some other types of floor.
This may mean fewer carbon emissions are released as there is less disposal and replacement required compared with other surface solutions.
Vinyl offcuts and post-manufacture waste are collected and recycled through schemes including Tarkett Restart and Recofloor by many flooring companies.
Wood flooring
Wood flooring is one of the best choices if you are thinking about the environment. This is because the material can easily be restored and reused.
It can also remove carbon dioxide inside the house, improving the quality of air. At the same time, it is a good insulator so homeowners do not have to use as much energy to heat up their homes, reducing carbon emissions, as well as their household bills.
At the end of its life, wood can be used to create energy, reducing the need for fossil fuels.
Carpet tiles
Just like you can find luxury vinyl flooring that has recycled content, many carpet tile ranges are made with recycled content.
This includes recycled content in the pile and the backing.
Although carpets do not last as long as other types of flooring, if you are looking for a warmer, cosier floor in your home, a carpet with recycled content is a good option.
Carpet tiles and planks are a modular product and can be used again easily in commercial and domestic settings.
Charities and community enterprises offer reuse of carpet tiles, have a look at Home – Reuse Network (reuse-network.org.uk) for your nearest charity or Home – Carpet Recycling UK who has a directory of reuse members.
Cork
Floor that has been derived from plants, including cork or engineered wood, are good options if you want to have as limited impact on the environment as possible.
These absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, and are typically grown in well-managed forests, so the effect on the surroundings is kept to a minimum.
At the end of life, cork can also be used to produce energy as an alternative fuel.
Technical and environmental information
You can find all technical information on the product pages when you are considering which flooring to purchase.
Maintaining your flooring
It is also a good idea to maintain your flooring whether it is vinyl, carpet tiles or laminate flooring. It will last longer and reduce cost as well the environmental impact of removing, disposing and replacing the flooring.
If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to get in touch with the CVT Direct team via our Contact Us page or give us a ring on 0345 121 1234.
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