Green flooring is simply defined as flooring products that are environmentally-friendly, sustainable, recyclable, rapidly replenishable, and minimally polluting, if not non-polluting. Green flooring goods have a notably less negative impact on the environment than their competitors because their manufactures take into account the ecological consequences of their products, from what they are made of, how they're grown, what it takes to maintain them, what it takes to make them into flooring, what it takes to ship them, and what it takes to install them.
Climate change is real, and its directly deleterious affects on our lives increases more and more each day. From ever-intensifying storms, drought, and food shortages, to flooding, the spreading of new diseases, and social unrest, there is no longer another check to turn. That said, everything we can do in our individual lives to impede this process is indispensable for the welfare of the species. To attempt to live a healthy and balanced lifestyle, being environmentally-cognizant is no longer a progressive idea only small facets of our society pursue - it is soon to be the rule, not the exception anymore. Be a good human.
The two types of flooring that are currently considered the greenest are bamboo and cork flooring. Bamboo is the easiest to replace because it grows with an unsurpassed rapidity, i.e., up to 1 inch per day. Cork trees do not have to be chopped down for their cork and so we can use the tree's resources without killing it. Other environmentally friendly flooring covers (which we do not sell) are natural fiber products, leather tiles, and certain types of linoleum flooring made from recycled constituents.
We have been in the nascent business of green flooring for over five years now. Few competitors can assert this. Our researchers scour the earth for the most environmental flooring material options currently available and deliberate on how best to turn them into green flooring products for you. Our customer service is exceptional. We always answer the phone, we respond to e-mails with unheard of swiftness, and our sales and customer service teams have been trained to know the business and the products inside and out. And is that is not enough, you can purchase our goods easily through our tasteful and user-friendly website at the most competitive prices on the market.
The most common criticism leveled at bamboo flooring, in addition to some of the not so environmentally-friendly practices, is that it is easily scratched or scuffed. But we have found that certain brands display these frailties considerably more than others, and in fact, it is usually the same companies who are environmentally feckless. The truth of the matter is some companies just use the weakest parts of the bamboo plant so they can sell the cheapest flooring, and you get what you pay for. This why Terra Verde only deals with companies who sell the highest quality bamboo flooring, acquired with care from the environs.
The situation is very similar with cork flooring. Those companies who scrape the bottom of the barrel when it comes to the materials that comprise your cork flooring sell products which are weaker and thus more inclined to splinter and crack. But, again, this is not something you have to worry about with Terra Verde. We examine the attributes of everything manufacturers put into the green flooring products we sell with a great sense of responsibility.
When compared to the strength of wood, it turns out that bamboo floors are 15% harder than Maple and almost 100% harder if they use Bamboo Strand board. Cork flooring tends to be softer and more flexible than many wood alternatives which are unforgiving. This is actually a sign of strength because some flexibility is good in your flooring materials. They wear less and last longer.
The first thing to note is that your floor will last a long time if it is correctly installed. This is an essential feature so do not find the cheapest guys you can find to install your green floors, otherwise your floors won't last nearly as long and then you will end up paying for it later. You're going to spend the money, the question is just when.
As far as product longevity, when professionally installed, both bamboo and cork flooring are known to last for decades. This is assuming, naturally, that you maintain and care for you floor consistently and properly. This is considerably comparable to wood. Plus, when the flooring finish starts to wear off years and years down the road, you can refinish it and have it looking and feeling as good as new again.
For spills and related cleanups we recommend that you use a damp but not overly saturated mop. The best cleaners are those made for pre-finished wood floors which you need to dilute some with water. We also recommend that dirt, sand, and the like should be vacuumed up as needed to prevent unnecessary scratches. Never use rough brillo pad-like sponges to clean the floor, they will scuff it. Also, refrain from using harsh cleaning chemicals like bleach and other corrosive agents.
A good tip also is to keep doormats at the entryways to your house or wherever you may be installing your flooring so as to prevent grit and grime from getting into the house. This just generally makes for a cleaner space but it also makes it easier to maintain the beauty of your green floors.
It is true. This is because bamboo flooring actually expands and contracts 50% less often than most hardwood floors. This is important because heat tends to cause materials to expand and can be killer on floors. So, for bamboo floors this really is a non-issue.
The shipping varies depending on where you are having it sent and which products you are purchasing. To find out specific shipping options and pricing please call 888-WEB-FLOORS.
Yes. You most certainly can. To request samples just contact us here.
We understand that some people may just need a few pieces of green flooring and so we are wiling to sell single cartons. If this is what you are looking to do, we recommend that you give us a call so we can work out a special deal for you.
Whether you have a question, comment, or concern we are here with superior customer service agents to assist you. You can reach us by going to our contact page.
