The Truth About Green Flooring

Oct. 17, 2012 - PRLog -- Over the last few years, the trend in flooring products has been truly 'green': from a marketing perspective. In an effort to get to the bottom of the issue of green flooring products, we interviewed Michael Brunner- C.E.O. of ecoHomeShop.com and a leading industry voice in the call for Greener Floors.

Q: Over the last several years, there has been a lot of hype about green flooring products. Has it really translated into more demand for earth friendly flooring solutions?

A: "Great question. Factually, there isn't a ton of consensus on what makes a floor 'green'. If the standard is floors made of renewable and rapidly renewable resources - the answer is a clear 'yes'. But whether this trend is being generated by an overall preference for hard surfaces - specifically wood and bamboo based products - or consumer conscience is anyone's guess. I think it depends quite a bit on the retailer - if there is a company culture around being Earth Friendly, it generally translates into more consumer enthusiasm for the concept. For many retailers and chains, however, the switch is being driven by the consumer- and slowly."

Q: You pointed to a lack of consensus on what makes a floor 'green'. What, in your opinion, are the deciding factors?

A: "First and foremost- any use of natural, earth friendly resources is useless if the end product has a short usable life. The number one way to be green is to select products designed for a long usable life. To this end- a review of the warranties and features that speak to durability is first on the list.
Next, inclusion of natural ingredients should be weighed appropriately. Solid hardwood floors are made from renewable resources- but aren't the greenest option due to their lack of recycled content. Engineered hardwood floors not only perform better- they are greener. The same applies to bamboo flooring.
Lastly- does the company embrace 'green'? Are they engaging in green internal processes, and sourcing from companies with similar philosophies? They have to be end-to-end green."

So, the issues involved really are a lot more complex than the packaging on flooring. But the good news is - common sense is a good foundation for starting your search!