GOING GREEN

Why Go Green?

Building or remodeling a home is an investment in your future and the future of the planet. Choosing eco-friendly materials and practices creates a healthier living environment for you and your family, reduces your environmental impact, and can even save you money in the long run.

Thanks to advancements in technology and a growing focus on sustainability, it's easier than ever to incorporate green building practices into your project. De/Mar Design Studio is proud to offer a wide range of eco-friendly flooring options and resources to help you build a sustainable home.

Green Flooring

Flooring is a significant element of any home, and selecting eco-friendly options sets a strong foundation for your green building project. Let's explore some popular sustainable flooring choices:

CORK & BAMBOO HARD SURFACE SOFT SURFACE CUSHION INSTALLATION

CORK & BAMBOO

Cork

Cork is a naturally renewable resource harvested from the bark of cork oak trees. It's known for its durability, resilience, and sound-dampening properties. Cork flooring is also hypoallergenic and comfortable underfoot.

Bamboo

A rapidly renewable resource, bamboo offers a stylish and eco-friendly alternative to traditional hardwood flooring. Bamboo is known for its strength and durability and can be finished in a variety of colors and stains.

HARD SURFACE

Hard Surface

Hardwood flooring is a classic and timeless choice that can be eco-friendly when sustainably harvested and finished with low VOC finishes. It adds warmth and character to a space and can be refinished to extend its lifespan. Unlike other flooring materials that may need to be replaced more frequently, hardwood can last for decades with proper care and maintenance.

Natural stone, such as marble and granite, can be a sustainable flooring option when sourced responsibly and extracted using environmentally friendly practices. While these materials may require more maintenance than some other options, they offer a luxurious and durable surface that can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home.

SOFT SURFACE

Soft Surface

Carpets can be a sustainable flooring choice when made from recycled materials and low-VOC adhesives. Look for carpets with certifications like Green Label or Green Label Plus, which indicate low emissions.

Factors to consider when choosing eco-friendly carpets include:

Carpet fibers (recycled content, natural fibers)
Toxics content (low VOC emissions)
Dye (non-toxic dyes)
Recycled content (look for carpets made from recycled materials)

CUSHION

Cushion

A high-quality carpet cushion is essential for protecting your carpet and enhancing its comfort and durability. Carpet cushions provide a barrier between your carpet and the floor, preventing wrinkles, bunching, and premature wear. Look for carpet cushions with low VOC emissions and recycled content to ensure a healthy and sustainable choice.

Look for a cushion with:

Recycled materials: Choose carpet cushions made from recycled materials, such as recycled polyurethane foam or recycled rubber.
Low VOC emissions: Look for carpet cushions certified by organizations like GREENGUARD or LEED, indicating low VOC emissions.
Natural fibers: Some carpet cushions are made from natural fibers like jute or sisal, offering a sustainable and biodegradable option.

INSTALLATION

Installation

Proper installation is crucial for ensuring the longevity and performance of your flooring. Choose a qualified installer who prioritizes sustainable practices and minimizes waste. By following eco-friendly installation techniques, you can further reduce the environmental impact of your flooring project.

Minimize waste: Use precise measurements and cutting techniques to reduce material waste.
Recycle materials: Recycle any leftover materials or packaging.
Use low-VOC adhesives: Opt for adhesives with low VOC emissions to improve indoor air quality.
Proper ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation during and after installation to remove any harmful fumes.
Energy efficiency: Consider the energy efficiency of the flooring materials you choose and the installation process.

Making Smart Choices for a Sustainable Home

Production

Consider the environmental impact of the flooring's production process. Look for materials with minimal waste generation and energy-efficient manufacturing practices.

Considerations

Think about the lifecycle of your flooring. Choose durable and long-lasting materials that require less frequent replacement. Explore options with low maintenance requirements, reducing the need for harsh cleaning chemicals.

Home Benefits

Green flooring options can contribute to a healthier living environment by improving indoor air quality, reducing allergens, and providing a comfortable surface for walking and playing.

Green Home Maintenance

Going green extends beyond the initial product selection. Here are some tips for maintaining your eco-friendly home:

CLEANERS INTERIOR EXTERIOR KITCHEN WINDOWS LIGHTING

CLEANERS

Cleaners

Use natural cleaning products whenever possible. Opt for vinegar, baking soda, and water for a powerful yet safe cleaning solution.

Avoid harsh chemicals and cleaners that can release harmful VOCs into the air and potentially damage your flooring.

INTERIOR

Interior

Keep caulked areas caulked. Every degree of temperature variance in a home can result in up to 10% addition to your heating and cooling expenses.
Check your doors. Energy can be lost through doors that are not spaced properly from the floor. If you are having flooring replaced or added, a professional installer can check your doors for proper install height.

Implement energy-efficient practices like using LED light bulbs and adjusting thermostats for optimal comfort and energy savings.
Minimize use of space heaters. Spaces heaters are energy hogs and can generate more than 2 pounds of greenhouse gas per hour. These heaters don’t help your hardwood floors because the heaters increase the contraction of hardwood floors.

EXTERIOR

Exterior

Choose well insulated windows and doors
Choosing exterior finishes like brick and stucco that are long lasting and will not require maintenance and upkeep
Install solar panels wherever possible for free, clean and unlimited solar energy

Keep window tracks, door thresholds and weather stripping clean and intact
Use double paned windows the air between the glass provides additional insulation

KITCHEN

Kitchen

Incorporate eco-friendly elements into your kitchen design for a healthier and more sustainable space. From energy-efficient appliances to sustainable materials, these practices can reduce your environmental impact and save you money in the long run.

Choose Energy Star-certified appliances: These appliances use less energy and water, resulting in lower utility bills.
Opt for efficient cooking methods: Choose ovens that don't require pre-heating and cooktops that boil water quickly to conserve energy.

Select low-VOC cabinets: Minimize exposure to harmful chemicals by choosing cabinets made from low-VOC materials.
Choose sustainable materials: Opt for countertops made from natural materials like granite, marble, or quartz, or recycled materials.
Consider sustainable wood options: If you prefer wood cabinets, choose sustainably sourced options certified by organizations like FSC or PEFC.
Install low-flow fixtures: Use low-flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets to conserve water without sacrificing performance.
Consider electronic or hands-free fixtures: These fixtures can help reduce water waste and promote better hygiene.
Install a tankless water heater: Enjoy on-demand hot water without the energy loss associated with traditional tank-style heaters.

WINDOWS

Windows

Windows play a crucial role in energy efficiency and overall sustainability. By choosing energy-efficient windows with high-performance glass and frames, you can reduce heat loss, improve indoor air quality, and lower your energy bills.

Energy-efficient glass: Look for windows with low-E coatings, which help to reflect heat back into your home during the winter and keep it cool in the summer.
High-performance frames: Choose frames made from durable and energy-efficient materials, such as vinyl or fiberglass.
Proper installation: Ensure your windows are properly installed to prevent air leaks and maximize energy efficiency.
Consider solar-powered blinds or shades: These can help to regulate temperature and reduce energy consumption.

LIGHTING

Lighting

Lighting plays a significant role in energy consumption and overall sustainability. By choosing energy-efficient lighting options, you can reduce your carbon footprint and lower your energy bills.

LED lighting: Invest in LED light bulbs, which use significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs.
Dimmable switches: Install dimmable switches to control lighting levels and reduce energy consumption.
Natural light: Maximize natural light by using skylights or large windows and keeping curtains and blinds open during the day.

Ready to start your flooring project?

GOING GREEN

Why Go Green?

Green Flooring

Cork

Bamboo

Hard Surface

Soft Surface

Cushion

Installation

Making Smart Choices for a Sustainable Home

Production

Considerations

Home Benefits

Green Home Maintenance

Cleaners

Interior

Exterior

Kitchen

Windows

Lighting

CONTACT

flooring

KITCHEN & BATH

Services

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