5 Unexpected, Sustainable Kitchen Countertops
More and more folks are making sustainable choices when remodeling their homes. Oftentimes making those decisions can be fraught with all sorts of challenges though. One of the main challenges is deciding what materials to use in your remodeling project. The kitchen is the most popular room to remodel, with kitchen countertops being among the most popular aspects to update. We look at some sustainable kitchen countertops to help make your decisions less fraught and more informed.
Here’s an overview of five of the more popular sustainable kitchen countertop choices.
1. Recycled or Salvaged Wood
Use salvaged or recycled wood for a natural look. Salvaged wood holds up best away from water, so it works better for islands and the like. Recycled butcher block counters can be made from a variety of repurposed woods. The plus, they are very durable and can easily be brought back to life with a fresh sanding.
2. Recycled glass
Recycled glass kitchen countertops are made with glass products that are mixed in with either cement or resin base. Four popular brands, include: Vetrazzo and Icestone, which are both made of recycled glass and cement; Curava, which is made from recycled glass, seashells and resin; and Squak Mountain, which utilizes recycled glass, cement and flyash, which is a by-product from of coal production.
3. Bamboo
Kitchen countertops made with bamboo are a more sustainable choice, because bamboo is a fast-growing renewable resource. One brand, Ecotop, is made with a 50/50 fiber blend of 100 percent post consumer recycled fibers and bamboo fiber. Teragren makes a 100 percent bamboo countertop that also utilizes a formaldehyde-free manufacturing adhesive. Bamboo is more durable than many hardwoods.
4. Recycled Paper
Yes, there are even kitchen countertops made with paper. Paperstones boasts being made with 100 percent post consumer recycled paper and petroleum-free resin and pigments. They are also certified by the LEED and Forest Stewardship Certified. Their surfaces will develop a patina as they age, which some see as a bonus.
5. Concrete
If sourced locally, or if you do-it-yourself, concrete can be a durable, sleek and sustainable countertop choice. The other added bonus is the cost can be relatively inexpensive when compared to other sustainable options. Here’s a DIY concrete how-to via DIY network.
Resources:
http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/2001823/list/Ecofriendly-Materials–Kitchen-Countertops
http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/16-ecofriendly-kitchen-counter-92116
http://www.houselogic.com/home-advice/green-remodeling/green-kitchen-countertops-3-eco-friendly-choices/
Related on Organic Authority
13 Clever DIY Kitchen Ideas to Make Your Kitchen More Functional and Stylish
5 Ways to Create a Vintage-Style Kitchen, Without Remodeling
5 Simple Design Tips to Update Your Home
Image: Plage Vinilos y Decoración
