When renovating a property, it understandable for most homeowners to be primarily concerned about the home’s aesthetics and improved functionality. When doing an apartment renovation in highly developed cities, like New York for example, homeowners also usually concern themselves about future resale value – considering the higher property values in these areas. We seldom hear people consider the ecological balance or the environment’s well-being when doing an apartment renovation in cities like NYC. However, considering the times today and how the world’s climates are changing, we all need to be proactive in keeping the environment well as responsible homeowners; and when it comes to home renovations, caring for the environment can start simply by choosing eco-friendly flooring materials. Here are a few ideas to help you out:
- Linoleum – This type of flooring has been mostly associated to the 50s. It is hip and retro. However, aside from being a funky option, this actually has safer components for the environment such as wood, cork-flour, oil, and rosins. Linoleum is literally made up of natural components that do not require as much energy to produce as compared to other commercial floor materials. Most importantly, linoleum is actually bio-degradable which makes it a more convenient option when have to constantly change your floor material.
- Bamboo – First of all, it is important to note that bamboo is not even wood. It is from a giant grass that is abundant in many places in the world and has a very rapid growth rate. The installation of bamboo floor tiles is as easy as installing wooden tiles. Moreover, it has an equally attractive appeal to it. Bamboo also makes the home look breezier and well lit because of its naturally light tone.
- Carpets from bio-based materials – There are lots of eco-carpet options out there today. These carpets are basically made out of bio-based and toxin free components that are designed not only to minimize non-degradable waste, but also to reduce harmless particles in the air. Most of these carpets are also made to be modular in order to make installation easier.
A lot of homeowners may think that eco-friendly options are difficult to access and are more expensive, which is certainly untrue. It does not take a dramatically huge effort for a homeowner to start caring for the environment when building or renovating a property. Most of the time, we only need to take small steps that will eventually contribute to something bigger and more influential. Hence, for a more satisfying renovation, consider these eco-friendly flooring tips on your next project and start to make a difference.