Green Flooring Put to The Test

page 3 of 3 | PREV 1 | 2 | 3 

The Terra Green Classic is a line of rounded-edged tile in a variety of hand-finished colors made from 55 percent post-consumer waste glass (terragreenceramics.com). All natural ingredients, including clay, sand, silica and feldspar, make up the rest of the composition. The glaze used is sufficient to create a non-porous surface so the tile does not have to be re-sealed annually like many conventional tiles ($13.95-15.95/sf; greenbuildingsupply.com).

The conventional tile company Crossville also produces a recycled tile line as well, EcoCycle, which contains 40 percent pre-consumer recycled ceramic salvaged from leftover in-factory materials. The EcoCycle line includes 12x12 and 8x8 tiles ranging from softer, earthy tones to more textured, rustic looks in eight color options (for retailers, see crossvilleinc.com). No sealers or waxes are required.

When installing tile, use low-VOC grout and adhesives such as AFM Safecoat 3-in-1 Adhesive ($21.50/qt.; greenhome.com) or Titebond Solvent Free Construction Adhesive ($6.49/29 oz.; environmentalhomecenter.com).

Finally, when considering flooring options, take durability into accont. A floor that needs to be replaced every few years is hardly low-impact. And with better options like these, you shouldn't have to.

PREV 1 | 2 | 3