The recyclability of flooring materials is an important factor to consider when choosing flooring for your home or business. Some common flooring options like wood and laminate tend to be less recyclable, while others such as engineered wood is more recycled and reusable.
Wood flooring like hardwood and laminate can potentially be recycled, but it requires stripping the wood which generates a lot of waste. Only a fraction of wood flooring actually gets recycled this way. Solid stone and tile materials are non-recyclable and end up in landfills after their useful lifespan.
In contrast, carpet tiles, vinyl flooring, and some laminates have high recycling rates. Their materials can be separated and reprocessed to make new flooring or other products. Vinyl flooring association also sponsors a recycling program to recycle old vinyl floors into new PVC piping.
For the most sustainable and eco-friendly flooring, look for natural options with recyclable and reusable qualities like bamboo, cork, linoleum. These floors can be easily recycled after use to make new composite wood products, biofuel, insulation, and more. They are also naturally resistant to damage, moisture, and scratches, so they tend to last longer than traditional floors.
When renovating or replacing flooring, it is a good idea to recycle old floors whenever possible. Reusing and repurposing floors is also helpful. With more options and take-back programs available today, it is easier than ever to choose recyclable and recycled flooring for your home and do your part for the environment. Making sustainable flooring choices can help conserve resources and reduce waste in the long run.
