When choosing flooring options, many people and home builders are installing luxury vinyl plank throughout the home. It’s no doubt this option looks good, is durable, and costs less than real wood and tile. It’s easy to install and is pet-, child- and water-resistant. Many of our clients choose this material and the end result is quite beautiful! But if you’re concerned about toxicity or the environment, you have a variety of other options that aren’t made from plastic, tend to release a lower level of phthalates into your indoor environment, and aren’t an environmental hazard when disposed of and burned in landfills.
Bamboo and cork floors have been gaining popularity due to their sustainability, durability and finished look inside a home. The cost for these options is lower than a natural wood floor but more expensive than LVP or other manufactured products. Bamboo and cork come in different colors, so it’s easy to find a style that matches your desire.
Of course, natural stone floors are one of the best materials for flooring. Ceramic or stone tiles are one of the least-toxic options, have sustained durability, and they are pet-, child- and water-resistant. Tiles are easier to maintain than other types of flooring, so that should be taken into consideration for areas that have high foot traffic. Mortar and grout off-gas during installation, so the real risk is to the installer—which is why we may choose to wear soft masks.
When thinking about green materials, you should also consider the products you clean with daily. You can make a good tile cleaning solution with warm water and white vinegar. Add a few drops of your favorite essential oils to give your home a pleasant, non-chemical smell. Unfortunately, removing tough stains takes something stronger than white vinegar or dish soap. When hiring a professional to clean the difficult stains in your grout, let the space ventilate for a couple of hours after cleaning.
If you’re considering replacing your flooring or cleaning your tile grout, let us work with you on your home project! My wife and I have four children and a dog, so we understand the desire to keep our home environment as safe as possible. Give us a call or text at 980-616-0914 or email us at MrTileNC@gmail.com.
