Sustainable floor types include any floor that's made with materials that can be infinitely sourced without harming the environment. Floor types that fall into this category are natural rubber, bamboo, cork and linoleum. Although concrete, stone and tile are made with natural materials that are sourced from the earth, there are many who believe that stone and rock are not sustainable products.
A wide number of floors can be made with recycled content, and most floors can be recycled at the end of their useful lives. However, there are some sustainable floor types that may not be recommended for bathroom installation. Hardwood made with reclaimed lumber, cork and bamboo flooring may not be suitable for bathroom areas. Check with the manufacturer prior to installing to avoid negating your floor warranty.
Tile is a popular floor type for bathroom installation. In addition to being dense and durable, they are also resistant to water when properly sealed. Ceramic tiles can be made with up to 80% reclaimed content and can be recycled at the end of its useful life. In addition to offering a wide variety of colors and designs, ceramic tiles can be either glazed or unglazed, and can also be textured to increase slip resistance. You can further individualize your ceramic tiles by creating a unique custom mosaic.
Have a question about sustainable flooring for bathrooms? Check out our green flooring FAQ section for answers to all of your floor-related questions.
