As consumers become more environmentally savvy, designers have come up with plenty of ways to incorporate eco-friendly materials for their clients. Gone are the times when environmentally responsible designs were labeled as bland or boring. Consider some of these exciting options and our flooring experts will be sure to make it work for any space!

Reclaimed Hardwood

Deadset on getting a traditional hardwood flooring look but want to limit your impact on the environment? Reclaimed hardwood uses wood from trees that were chopped down decades, or even centuries ago. First used as a beam in a farmer’s barn or a supporting joist in a warehouse roof, reclaimed hardwood can come from many sources. Going the reclaimed hardwood route is a great way to bring environmental sustainability into your home.

Wool

Most carpets are made with compounds and toxins that are harmful to the environment. Luckily, wool carpet is an eco-friendly option that is readily available and can be dyed the color of your choice. Wool is one of the first materials ever used for flooring and has proven to be extremely durable. It is a perfect fit for heavy use areas in a family home.

Cork

Cork is more commonly known for its use in wine bottles and as a wall covering in office spaces. Although in recent years, it has risen in popularity for traditional flooring. You may also be surprised to learn that cork is a renewable resource. Cork comes from the bark of the cork oak tree, and its harvest does not require cutting the tree down. The bark will grow back every few years. In your home cork flooring is anti-microbial, fire retardant, and a natural insect repellent. 

Bamboo

Bamboo is a grass that shares similar characteristics to hardwood after manufacturing. It is sustainable and only takes three to five years to reach maturity, far less than the two decades it takes for trees. Other than reclaimed hardwood, bamboo is the closest to hardwood-eco-friendly flooring can get. You will be surprised by the wide array of colors available to choose from.

Leather

You can group cork and leather together as the two flooring options that surprise and delights first-time buyers. It has a soft, warm feel that fits naturally in a personal space like a bedroom. While it does wear over time, it is extremely durable and can develop a personality of its own over the years from scratches and age. 

Contact Us

Classic Floor Designs is committed to fulfilling your flooring vision in an environmentally friendly fashion. Our experts have decades of experience in the Washington D.C. area and are waiting to give you a complimentary consultation! Call us at (202) 872-9860 and we’ll be more than happy to set up your FREE in-store design consultation.