Building or renovating a home is a daunting task, particularly when done with consideration for the Earth and human health.

Materials that were once considered safe are now being found to be detrimental to indoor air quality and to the environment at all stages of the life cycle. Carpets manufactured with petroleum-based synthetic fibers and toxic glues are thought to give off gas for years. Vinyl flooring is made with one of the most toxic materials used in the home.

These considerations are even more critical when statistics are saying the majority of us spend up to 90% of our time indoors. Natural flooring options improve indoor air quality and long-term health, while being much better for the planet.

Linoleum

Somehow in recent human history, what we call linoleum is actually supremely toxic vinyl flooring. Natural linoleum is actually a composite of linseed oil, cork dust, pigments, sawdust,  tree resins and limestone pressed into a jute backing. Linoleum is made from renewable ingredients, often with recycled content, is easy to clean and has a 30-50 year lifespan. Linseed oil is also naturally antimicrobial, so it is great to install in bathrooms, kitchens and mudrooms.

Cork

Cork from cork oak trees, hailing from the Mediterranean, can be harvested every five to seven years without actually harming the tree. The look of cork is varied and has an attractive aesthetic. It is easy to maintain, and is a very versatile flooring- being functional as wall-to-wall or specific rooms. Stay away from products with formaldehyde added, and avoid cork-vinyl composites.

Carpets

Carpets are getting themselves a bad reputation these days. Due to their thickness and need for vacuums to attempt to remove small particulate matter, they are thought to lead to poor indoor air quality. Also, the synthetic materials most carpets are comprised of, are harmful to our health and detrimental to the environment.

However, there are alternatives to traditional carpets. Firstly, using carpet sparingly. Avoid the wall-to-wall impulse, but use area rugs or carpet tiles where applicable. Looking for natural fibers, like naturally antibacterial, and flame retarding wool, is also a good way to green your carpets. Find more information here.

Wood and Bamboo

Wood and bamboo are both very durable materials for flooring usage. Bamboo is rapidly renewable, and harder than red oak or maple. Wood is a beautiful flooring choice, and even more so when forest stewardship council certified (FSC), ensuring the wood was harvested from a sustainably managed forest.

Reclaimed or salvaged wood is also becoming popular for its seasoned look and the story that can often accompany the material. Avoid laminated products (usually with formaldehyde), and look for sealers and cleaners that are low-VOC. Read more on wood and bamboo here.