Homeowners who are interested in the purchase of green homes are generally concerned about the environment. Though the lowered operational costs in comparison with conventional homes are also a huge incentive, the environment's health is another. There was a time period when it seemed that only the very affluent could afford an energy-efficient home, but that is not the case anymore. With lower costs of materials, labor costs, and interest rates, there's never been a better time to find a "green" home that is affordable. The overall cost of the home largely depends on your design plans and the materials you choose to utilize within your custom green home. Flooring plays a huge part in your overall costs, and if you're concerned about the environment, you'll want to analyze all of the greener and more efficient flooring alternatives available to you.
There are several reasons why one might choose to go with greener flooring, rather than conventional flooring. The first, of course, is environmental concern. Usually green flooring will last longer than your conventional flooring (i.e. standard carpet), and it is generally safer for you and your family, particularly those who may suffer from allergies and/or asthma. When choosing green flooring, there are several factors that you'll want to analyze when making your final decision.
RENEWABLE
Is the material you're choosing renewable? How long does it take for that material to grow back again? Bamboo is considered renewable because it takes approximately 3-5 years to replenish itself, whereas harder woods like oak can take up to 50 years to grow back.
RECYCLABLE
Is the material recyclable or only good for the one-time installation and use? It certainly doesn't help to be green if you need to replace your flooring and can only fill a landfill with the discards. Instead, choose something that does not monopolize virgin resources from the environment, and can be recycled should the occasion arise.
RECYCLED MATERIAL
Is the flooring you're considering purchasing already made up of recycled materials? Talk about a bonus! First you purchase recycled material flooring, and eventually if it needs to be replaced, you can recycle it again. Every bit helps!
LIFE CYCLE
What is the life expectancy of the flooring? For example, conventional carpet has one of the worst life expectancies. It needs to be replaced quite often. Bamboo, on the other hand, is extremely durable and scratch-resistant. It does not need extensive oiling to maintain its appearance either. With a small amount of "TLC", your bamboo flooring's life cycle should be significantly longer than standard, conventional flooring.
BIODEGRADABLE
Are the materials you're planning on using biodegradable? If you can't recycle, or won't recycle, do you have other options besides throwing your old flooring in a landfill?
Ginger Heise is the Director of Operations for Stillbrooke Homes/Bud Bartley Homes. Bud Bartley Homes takes great pride in the value offered to each client. We build in the warmth and comfort, never forgetting that a home is where memories are born. Our building associates are craftsmen, each dedicated to fulfilling your distinctive vision for your custom home and using only the finest in materials and modern building techniques. Privately owned and operated for over thirty years, we are confident that the Bud Bartley team will exceed your home building expectations.
For more information on building a custom home, a luxury home, or a green home, please visit us at http://newgreenhomesnorthtexas.com/
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