Eco-Friendly Options for a Greener Home in Ontario
At Ever After Home we have noticed that awareness of environmental issues continues to grow throughout the construction industry. Individuals and businesses are seeking sustainable alternatives in all aspects of their lives. When it comes to interior design and home improvement, eco-friendly flooring and finishes have gained significant popularity. In Ontario, Canada, there is a wide range of sustainable flooring and finish options available, offering both style and environmental responsibility. We always offer these choices when designing a home for a customer. In this blog post, we will explore various flooring materials made from renewable resources like bamboo, cork, and sustainably harvested wood. We will also highlight low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) finishes, paints, and adhesives that minimize indoor air pollution, contributing to healthier living environments.
Eco-friendly Flooring Options
Bamboo Flooring
Bamboo flooring has emerged as a popular eco-friendly choice due to its rapid renewability and durability. It is a fast-growing grass that can reach maturity in just a few years, making it highly sustainable. Companies like Kentwood offer a range of bamboo flooring options that are manufactured in Canada and readily available in Ontario. It’s essential to look for bamboo flooring that is sourced from responsibly managed plantations and is free from harmful adhesives.
Cork Flooring
Cork flooring is another sustainable option that deserves attention. It is made from the bark of cork oak trees. Cork flooring is harvested without causing harm to the trees themselves. The bark regenerates over time, allowing for repeated harvesting. Torlys is a reputable company that provides cork flooring options in Ontario. Cork flooring offers natural insulation properties, durability, and a comfortable feel underfoot.
Sustainably Harvested Wood Flooring
Wood flooring is a classic choice for homeowners, and opting for sustainably harvested wood can significantly reduce the environmental impact. Look for products certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) to ensure that the wood comes from responsibly managed forests. Kentwood, a Canadian company, offers a wide range of sustainable hardwood flooring options made from FSC-certified wood. These products provide an exquisite aesthetic while promoting sustainable forestry practices.
Low-VOC Finishes, Paints, and Adhesives
Low-VOC Finishes
Traditional finishes and coatings can release harmful Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) into the air, contributing to indoor air pollution. Low-VOC finishes offer a healthier alternative by significantly reducing the emission of harmful chemicals. Companies like Benjamin Moore offer a range of low-VOC finishes that are readily available in Ontario. The Benjamin Moore Natura line of paints, for example, is zero-VOC, ensuring that your home’s air quality remains clean and healthy.
Low-VOC Paints
Choosing low-VOC paints for your interior walls not only helps to maintain better indoor air quality but also contributes to the overall reduction of harmful chemicals released into the environment. Companies like Benjamin Moore, Sherwin-Williams, and PARA Paints offer low-VOC paint options that come in a wide variety of colours and finishes, ensuring you don’t have to compromise on style while making eco-conscious choices.
Low-VOC Adhesives
When installing flooring or finishes, it’s important to consider the adhesives used. Conventional adhesives often contain high levels of VOCs, which can have adverse health effects. Opting for low-VOC adhesives ensures that you are minimizing indoor air pollution during the installation process. Look for adhesives that are specifically labeled as low-VOC or eco-friendly. Many flooring manufacturers, including Kentwood and Torlys, offer eco-friendly adhesives that complement their sustainable flooring products.
Benefits of Eco-Friendly Flooring and Finishes
Environmental Sustainability
By choosing eco-friendly flooring and finishes, you contribute to the preservation of natural resources and promote sustainable manufacturing practices. Materials like bamboo, cork, and sustainably harvested wood are renewable resources that can be responsibly managed and replenished over time.
Indoor Air Quality
Conventional flooring and finishes can release harmful chemicals into the air, leading to poor indoor air quality. Low-VOC flooring and finishes minimize the emission of these chemicals, creating a healthier living environment for you and your family.
Aesthetic Appeal
Eco-friendly flooring and finishes do not compromise on style and design options. With a wide range of colours, patterns, and textures available, you can create a beautiful and sustainable interior space that aligns with your personal taste.
Longevity and Durability
Many eco-friendly flooring materials are known for their durability, ensuring that your investment will last for years to come. Sustainably harvested wood and bamboo, for example, offer excellent resistance to wear and tear, making them a practical choice for high-traffic areas.
When it comes to creating a sustainable home in Ontario, Canada, eco-friendly flooring and finishes are essential components to consider. By choosing materials made from renewable resources like bamboo, cork, and sustainably harvested wood, you contribute to the preservation of natural resources and support responsible manufacturing practices. Additionally, selecting low-VOC finishes, paints, and adhesives helps maintain better indoor air quality and promotes a healthier living environment. With a plethora of options available, it’s easier than ever to achieve both style and sustainability in your home. At Ever After Homes are embracing these eco-friendly choices and taking steps towards creating a greener future for all.
