Any Color Of Countertops, As Long As They're Green

Any Color Of Countertops, As Long As They're Green

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Countertops are often the showpiece of many a kitchen or bathroom suite; exuding a sense of style and taste from the homeowner. More than this though, with modern advances it is now possible to use environmentally friendly materials and manufacturing processes to help minimize your impact on the planet.

Glass tiles make a great alternative to their ceramic counterparts; having a significantly reduced energy use to produce them. Ceramic tiles can only be made using virgin materials, though sintering is a recycling process for previously used goods.

There are some downsides in so much that the glass will scratch more easily, and the shape and form may be a less uniform. However, this often serves to add to the design aspect, and gives a certain tangibility to the surfaces.

Companies are beginning to find ways to help boost their uniformity however and so kitchen use is on the increase. But it is within the confines of a bathroom that they are really lending themselves to, with many leading environmentally concerned designers opting for them.

Amongst the best environmentally sound countertops ideal for the kitchen is paper composite. Made from shredded paper and other highly fibrous materials, they are bonded together with a resin to make a firm structure.

As a kitchen work surface it is brilliant; being extremely tough and durable, and it resists exposure to heat fantastically well. It is also highly resistant to scratches and tears, whilst being naturally resistant to staining.

To increase the lifespan of the material, simply wiping regular with a non-abrasive cleaner and sponge will suffice. Though naturally stain resistant, treating with a natural mineral oil helps improve this, whilst it will also help to lock out any moisture as well.

Another great material for countertops throughout the home is recycled plastic. These come in a huge range of colors too, so can be chosen to fit into most designs and styles. However, though long lasting, they can scratch, warp and burn in some instances.

An increasingly popular environmentally friendly material is terrazzo; comprised of crushed stone and glass, and set in an epoxy substrate or better still, concrete. This is hugely long lasting and has fantastic low maintenance qualities too.

Other environmentally friendly countertops can be made from certain woods, (particularly reclaimed), and cement. However, as with all the suggestions above, it is often more to do with the manufacturing process, which really makes them green; so checking sources here is important.

About the Author:
There are many different types of countertops, each one designed to do specific tasks. If you want to know more about butcher block countertops or granite tile countertop, visit our site for loads of free information.



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