Did you know that outside of using sustainable energy sources such as solar energy and wind turbines, there are other ways to convert your home to be environmentally friendly? Have you heard of eco-friendly countertops? It may sound strange, however, there are three types of sustainable countertops that are as attractive and more beneficial than traditional materials. Not only are these countertops helpful to our ecosystem and environment, they are low cost and extremely durable.
Recycled paper countertops
Recycled paper countertops sound counterintuitive but are made with bound paper fibers and resin to make a sturdy surface that are simple to install. You can expect the cost of these to start at $30 per square foot. Since they are relatively easy to install, you may save on the installation cost.
Reclaimed wood countertops
If you would like to preserve your wooden countertops but are interested in keeping your environmental impact to a minimum, reclaimed wood is your best go-to. Reclaimed wood is technically a green countertop due to it being saved from entering the landfill. These countertops start about $40 per square foot and will likely remain useable for a lifetime with proper care. Like all wood surfaces, you will need to protect it from water damage. The best way to do this is to seal the wood occasionally, especially around sinks and dishwashers.
Recycled glass countertops
Recycled glass countertops are the best option for someone who is looking for a chic aesthetic that doubles as a durable surface. Recycled glass is great as it can withstand high heat which is great for around the stovetop. These countertops are a bit more expensive compared to their other eco-friendly counterparts. The starting price is about $50 per square foot which is roughly what you would expect to pay for granite. According to Houselogic, these countertops come from recycled curbside glass that is often mixed with cement substrate making them safe for the environment and your household.
Many people are looking to convert their home to a sustainable, environment-friendly space and a great place to start is in the kitchen. So many houses are being built to accommodate renewable energy sources, but few have green options for decoration, interior structure, and furniture. These countertop options are not just attractive, they limit the impact you have on the environment which is a win-win! The next time you are replacing your countertops, consider these options to help keep your environmental impact low and save money.
Rich Cosgrove is the president of Stark Trumbull Area Realtors, which serves Stark, Carroll and Trumbull counties. Visit www.star.realtor for a complete listing of Realtor and affiliate members. Contact Cosgrove at [email protected] with questions on this article.
