Let's talk about Ecological Pavement?

For those looking to have a more sustainable lifestyle, it is essential to consider more environmentally friendly options, especially when considering remodeling. Discover some ecological flooring options in this article!

Sustainability in Interior Design

In interior design, sustainability is a trend. Ecological and low-polluting materials, with natural substances, free of harmful agents and with breathable finishes, are increasingly sought after in construction or remodeling projects. Not only because their installation guarantees great health benefits, but also because some of these materials ensure that they do not emit harmful VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) or leave traces of formaldehyde.

However, before installing a new eco-friendly floor, you should first think about the space requirements. For example, does it have to be water-repellent or particularly quiet? Should it be resistant and aesthetically appealing? The truth is that there are many different types of ecological flooring, produced from renewable, natural or recycled raw materials. Here, it is important to consider its production, installation and maintenance. All these aspects must be associated with achieving a low environmental impact and the consequent reduction in energy consumption. But let's go in parts!

Discover some ecological flooring options and their characteristics!

Ecological Flooring: some examples

Parquet

An ecological floor par excellence, parquet is a durable option with real origins. First used in the 15th century in Versailles, parquet became an indication of exuberance and wealth, as its installation required considerable technical skill and time. Currently, however, its use is much more measured. Many people associate parquet with old-fashioned, glamorous spaces. However, opting for parquet can have positive effects on the environment, but certain aspects must be taken into account. For example, what is the origin of wood? What information do you have about the means of transport and storage used? What treatments were used?

Well, the best way to ensure that there is an “environmentally friendly” answer to all these questions is to start by looking for certified parquetFSC (Forest Stewardship Council)which attests to the environmental and social responsibility of all agents involved in the handling of materials from certified wood or certificationPEFCwhich guarantees consumers that the same materials“they derive from forest management where sustainability principles based on three basic pillars are consistently applied: (1) Social (2) Environmental (3) Economic”.This way, you will know that you have chosen an ecological floor.

Likewise, you must make sure that the parquet has not been subjected to chemical treatments, but rather natural treatments and agents, whether in its production, installation or maintenance procedures.

These practices, however, should be used when selecting any wooden covering, especially if you are not a fan of parquet. In this case, you have another option: opt for reclaimed wood flooring. In other words, wood resulting from other flooring or produced from recycled material: a resistant, biodegradable and ecological option.

Bamboo

A valid alternative to wood, ecological bamboo flooring is a very resistant and easy-to-maintain material. In fact, this material was recognized by the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification system, created by the non-governmental organization United States Green Building Council, in 2000, as an “ecologically-friendly building material”, in other words: an environmentally friendly material. Therefore, as it is a woody grass, produced from a quickly regenerable plant, bamboo flooring is an excellent option for indoor environments, available in various tones and models.

Linoleum

Did you know that linoleum is a material derived from natural raw materials? Yes, its composition includes natural resins, pulverized cork and limestone, linseed oil, leaf litter, wood sawdust, among others. The only drawback, in ecological terms, is that fertilizers with chemical ingredients may be involved in the production of linseed. However, eco-friendly linoleum flooring is biodegradable, easy to install and clean, water and scratch resistant, antibacterial, hypoallergenic, recyclable, economical and versatile. Furthermore, it is possible to find a wide range of qualities, colors and textures of linoleum for flooring.

Cork

As it originates from trees that regenerate after harvesting, cork oak bark is the ideal raw material for ecological flooring. Coming from Mediterranean countries, such as Portugal or Spain, cork is a great material for flooring. It is a 100% biodegradable material that offers excellent thermal insulation.

Furthermore, since cork oaks can live between one and two centuries, cork is a renewable resource. As it contains suberin which, according to APCOR(Portuguese Cork Association), it is“a mixture of organic acids from which the walls of your cells are formed, preventing the passage of water and gases”,cork is also hypoallergenic and does not allow dust to accumulate.

Finally, thanks to their natural variations in colors and textures, ecological cork floors are a true must-have for more daring and sustainable design styles.

Medd Design: for the transformation of your commercial space

On commercial architectural projects, we offer an end-to-end experience led by experienced architects, designers and engineers. Innovative architectural solutions for a wide range of commercial clients looking to relocate, build, modernize or simply redefine and optimize their working environment. Whatever the case, Medd carries out thecomprehensive project management or commercial work, without complications or wasted time.