Over the past years, we have noticed that many homeowners are now more interested in green countertops, and it’s no surprise why. Today, there are countless eco-friendly countertop options available to homeowners. Each comes with its pros and cons. Same as every home improvement project, it depends on choice and budget.
Most Eco-Friendly Countertops
Below is the best environmentally-friendly choices for the kitchen:
1. Quartz
Plenty of homeowners consider quartz for the kitchen counters. It is not just strong, gorgeous, and durable but also adds luxury to your kitchen. It’s made from natural minerals that come from the earth, mixed with resins and pigments. It’s also much friendlier to the environment as compared to the granite.
There is minimal energy invested in the mining process because quartz does not have to be mined in slabs. In contrast to other countertops, quartz countertops are recyclable and have a long replacement life.
Besides this, the smooth surface prevents the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms. It makes quartz a hygienic option for the whole family.
2. Bamboo
Bamboo stands as one of the most distinctive eco-friendly countertops. If you want a countertop material that looks unique from the conventional countertops but still offers excellent functionality, bamboo might end your search. Bamboo is resistant to bacteria and prevents mildew/mould from growing. It makes bamboo a great option for kitchen counters.
Bamboo countertops also look attractive and consist of properties like that of wood. In addition, they are strong and can bear the everyday wear and tear of busy kitchens.
Although bamboo is an eco-friendly renewable resource, it can still be treated with chemicals. So, it’s worth picking the bamboo countertop that has not been treated with chemicals. To learn more about the pros and cons of bamboo countertops, visit this site.
3. Wood
Wood is also the most common material for eco-friendly countertops that can help you enhance the beauty of your kitchen instantly. Today, there are many kinds of wood counters to select from – rich walnut to deep maple to exotic iroko. They work with all kitchen styles, look beautiful, and also add warmth to the kitchen area.
Moreover, most wooden countertops are recyclable and they should be a good fit with your furniture from Ashley. They also withstand nicks, spills and heat that occur in the kitchen. Wood countertops also have natural anti-bacterial properties and come in various styles and colours to fit the home interior.
These counters also have the potential to absorb the noise of a busy household. Moreover, wood can be easily revived by refinishing the surface if it gets stains or dings. Proper maintenance will ensure that it will appear and work wonderfully for many years.
4. Recycled Glass
Another famous choice is recycled glass. Since no two recycled glass countertops are the same, they can provide a unique dreamy look to your kitchen that you desire. In addition, they are a great alternative to the countertop materials like granite.
There are diverse kinds of recycled glass countertops available. Few of them are more environmentally friendly as compared to others. So, if you get a 100% recycled countertop, it means it is 100% green. This aesthetically pleasing centrepiece consists of 70 – 80% of recycled glass.
The glass can be from mirrors, windshields, windows, etc. Besides this, the colour and texture options available are endless. They also resist scratches and heat. It makes recycled glass countertops a durable option in terms of daily use.
5. Recycled Aluminum and Stainless Steel
Recycled stainless steel and aluminum countertops are also part of the eco-friendly category. It’s because these materials can be recycled again and again. Most stainless steel is manufactured using 60% recycled content and has a long lifespan.
6. Recycled Paper
If you want one of the eco-friendly kitchen countertops that can handle anything you throw at it, recycled paper countertops are an excellent option. They are made up of a mixture of recycled waste paper material, non-petroleum resins, and other fibres. The combination is heated and compressed into a monolithic slab that provides warmth and softness like stone.
Recycled paper countertops are also light in weight compared to natural stone; they can accommodate prolonged spans without any extra support. They are also durable and pretty tough.
Their non-porous nature makes them highly resistant to nicks and stains. In addition, recycled paper countertops that use non-petroleum-based resin make an attractive option for eco-conscious homeowners.
7. Linoleum
Linoleum countertops also fit the bill when it comes to green countertop material because they are manufactured with recycled, natural, and renewable materials. They have a soft and durable surface.
Linoleum usually consists of cork dust, linseed oil, pine tree resin, jute fibres, wood flour, pigments, and minerals. It is one of the least costly counter options available today.
8. Concrete
Concrete is manufactured using sand, cement, and gravel. Since sand and gravel are 100% natural, the concrete countertops are also considered a green option. Concrete countertops are a superb addition to any home because they offer a much-required titivation to the home interiors. These counters are suitable for both farmhouse and modern kitchens.
They are so popular because they provide a broad assortment of design options. Concrete counters can last for longer if they are properly maintained and sealed. They are also customizable. So, you can get it tailored to fit your counter configuration and even choose sheen, edge profile and shade.
Moreover, concrete countertops are also less expensive and do not emanate harmful gases into your home. Installing them in your kitchen helps you increase the resale value because concrete countertops are considered a high-quality material.
Wrapping Up:
Countertops define the personality of the kitchen. In Houzz kitchen trends study 2020, they are included in 89% of projects. They are made using a wide variety of materials, with diverse qualities and impacts on the environment.
But nowadays, many individuals prefer to use eco-friendly kitchen countertops. All the options mentioned above add a chic look to your kitchen while offering sustainable benefits.
