What Building Materials Are Considered Eco-Friendly?
Most environmentally-conscious Bay Staters would probably not be shocked to find that Massachusetts ranks consistently in the Top 10 States for LEED or Green Building and Sustainability. LEED is recognized as the most widely used green building rating system in the world. Massachusetts has been crushing it for the past decade in this area.
The list, announced by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) ranked Massachusetts in third place, behind only Illinois and Washington State. By using sustainable building, design, and construction materials and techniques, our region will continue to lead the country in using materials that are not only natural, but from renewable sources as well.
Working closely with engineers, designers, and suppliers, Sordan Construction is able to deliver sustainable technologies and materials to create the kitchen, bathroom, or an entire home for our valued clients.
We are often asked about what materials are considered “Green” or eco-friendly. The answer often depends on what you are having done in your home and what will work best for your needs, but we felt it important enough to discuss what some of the common materials are so that you can be better informed when it comes time to choose.
What Do We Mean By “Green” Materials?
Before we jump into the types of materials you may want to use for your kitchen remodel or addition to your home, let’s define what “Green” materials really are why they might be needed going forward.
Did you know that building materials worldwide consume 3 billion tons of raw materials each year or 40% of total global use? (Roodman and Lenssen, 1995) This is not sustainable and eco-friendly products can greatly decrease this usage.
- Green building materials, products, or techniques more often than not tap into renewable, rather than nonrenewable resources.
- Green materials are environmentally responsible because impacts are considered over the life of the product.
- Using green building materials and products promotes conservation of dwindling nonrenewable resources internationally.
Common Green Materials Used in Construction
While every project is different and the needs of every build are unique, here are a few of the most common eco-friendly products that you may want to consider for your next project.
Bamboo
When we think of bamboo, images of koala bears or panda bears may instantly come to mind. But did you know that bamboo flooring is surging in popularity. Not only is bamboo one of the fastest growing renewable products on the Earth, but it is also extremely durable, cost effective, and easy to transport.
Reclaimed Wood
Recycled or reclaimed wood has a much lower impact on the environment than freshly harvested wood for construction. It is also highly popular as it is easy to use, often plentiful in our region, and looks beautiful when refinished or installed as is.
Cork
Most of us think of cork as the product that keeps our wine fresh, but it can be an environmentally smart addition to your renovation project. In fact, the process of harvesting cork, which is found on cork oaks trees is done by hand…without killing the tree!
Cork is a solid, yet light product that can be used for flooring, wall surfaces, or even insulation. Cork has the added benefit of being mold and mildew resistant.
Recycled Plastic of Rubber
Who knew that your old car tires or recycled plastic can be used in the construction process? Well, now you know!
Recycled plastic and rubber are durable and robust materials that can serve our planet much better as a building material than in a landfill for hundreds of years.
There are so many more materials including: stone, Adobe brick, cord wood, recycled steel, wool and many more. Talk to your contractor or designer about how you can incorporate these renewable and eco-friendly products into your next home, bathroom, or kitchen remodel.
