Indoor surfaces often get a bad rap in the green community due to the amount of resins, binders, and adhesives used in their production and installation. But manufacturers have made strides in the eco-friendliness of those adhesives and materials while maintaining their efficacy, resulting in a wealth of green surfacing options. From flooring to tile to countertops, here are just a few choices.
Earth-Friendly
All 33 colors in the new Corian Terra Collection feature at least 6% recycled content, with five colors (white jasmine, rice paper, raffia, silver birch, and dove) comprising at least 20% pre-consumer recycled resin content and 17 colors with at least 13% recycled content. The claims are certified by Scientific Certification Systems. The material can help projects earn points toward LEED certification. Non-porous Corian is GreenGuard- and NSF-certified, and will not promote the growth of mold, mildew, or bacteria when cleaned properly. DuPont | 800.426.7426 | countertops.dupont.com
New Technique, Old Look
Known for its restored and reclaimed hardwood floors, Carlisle Wide Plank Floors, an FSC-recognized company, unveils its brushed texture flooring. A new process using specially designed brushes removes soft spring growth wood and leaves behind hard summer growth with a heavily grained surface. The technique creates a natural older-floor look. Handcrafted brushed texture flooring will initially be available in sawn oak and hickory, and may be combined with other distressing techniques. Carlisle Wide Plank Floors | 800.595.9663 | wideplankflooring.com
Crush on You
Earning its name by using crushed raw waste glass from within 20 miles of the maker’s facility, Crush 100% recycled glass tile is available in 40 colors and contributes toward LEED certification. Available in gloss or matte finishes and 17 size options, designers have ultimate flexibility. The proprietary glass fusing technology used to reform the crushed glass into tile translates into a two-week lead time for made-to-order Crush tile. FireClay Tile | 408.275.1182 | fireclaytile.com
Counter Conscious
Environmentally friendly features can be found from surface to core in EQcountertops. Beneath GreenGuard-certified laminates from major brands including Formica, Nevamar, and Wilsonart, the countertops feature low- or no-VOC water-based adhesives to preserve indoor air quality. FSC-certified cores comprise 100% pre-consumer recycled particleboard with no added urea formaldehyde. EQcountertops can contribute points toward LEED certification. VT Industries | 800.827.1615 | vtindustries.com
