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Green

Living a greener life doesn't have to mean giving up the things you enjoy, it's just rethinking your needs and considering what alternatives are out there!

From sustainable or recycled products like bamboo or glass tiles to carpet made from corn and countertops made with recycled paper, Surface Brokers is on the cutting edge of this green movement.

Bamboo

Bamboo Flooring is made from quick growing bamboo stalks, found throughout most of southeast Asia. Bamboo grows to a height of 60' within the first several months of growth, and thereafter is harvested every 5-6 years. It is cut into strips, and then laminated into flooring planks. Bamboo Floors offer tremendous interior design flexibility. They are a unique, beautiful, "Green" alternative to other hardwoods.

Cork

Harvesting the cork oak for its bark is strictly regulated, limiting such harvesting into nine-year cycles. The individual cork oaks must be at least 25 years old before they are harvested and when they are, the health of those cork oaks must be ensured. Cork bark is still harvested from the tree in a centuries old tradition with hand tools. Cork harvesting is not harmful to the tree. A cork oak can live for 150-200 years, so it can be safely harvested up to 20 times during its life cycle. It is a truly inexhaustible and natural resource. Cork flooring stands as a shining example of a renewable source in flooring.

Marmoleum

Marmoleum has been a mainstay floor covering for over 100 years because it is one of the few products made from primarily natural raw materials. It is made up of linseed oil, rosins, and wood flour, calendered onto a natural jute backing (backing for the marmoleum tile is polyester). It is a tough yet visually striking floor covering, highly resistant to heavy rolling loads and foot traffic. Because Marmoleum is a natural organic product, its performance is enhanced by time, as exposure to air serves to harden and increase its durability. Although Marmoleum continues to harden over time, the floor remains quiet and comfortable under foot.

Recycled Glass Tiles

There are several glass tiles that are are made from 100% recycled glass from post-consumer or post-industrial sources. These unique pieces come in hundreds of variations in color, style and finish. Envision the endless possibilities with three-dimensional tiles, matte and glossy finishes and enough hues to please every one of the senses. Glass tiles are as durable and functional as they are beautiful.

Natural Stone

Stone tiles are our top choice for wet areas. Because of their timeless design that never goes out of style, stones are less likely to be removed and thrown out than ceramic tile or vinyl. Likewise, if the materials need to be removed, they may be reused for landscaping with no detriment to the natural environment.

Limestone and tumbled slate are great for bathroom or entry areas where slip-resistance is a necessity. These stones are also more gentle on bare feet than a clefted slate.

Stone tiles are also very receptive to passive solar heating, as they will hold and radiate heat long after the sun goes down.

When selected from well-managed quarries, stone tiles are a great alternative to ceramic or vinyl for wet areas, and their natural beauty will last the life of the house and beyond.

Living a greener life doesn't have to mean giving up the things you enjoy, It's just rethinking your needs and considering what alternatives are out there! Call right away for help with a more eco-friendly approach to your floor or counter top project. 503-341-4247

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