Companies across the UK are becoming more aware of the effects of Climate Change on the planet. Many of them are attempting to reduce the impact that they have as a business on this environmental damage. Every aspect of a business has an impact on the environment, from the insulation in the roof to the type of floor you have. Different types of flooring systems can have different environmental impacts. Each comes with its own advantages and disadvantages. What is the most environmentally friendly flooring, and what is right for you?
Potential Environmental Effects of Flooring
All flooring systems have a number of potential effects on the environment. They can be categorised into four main potential issues.
Wastage
Many types of flooring create a high potential wastage. Generally, environmentally friendly flooring tries to minimise the amount of waste. All production of flooring systems uses resources. Therefore, it is best to try and waste as little as possible. Tiled floors always have a significant amount of offcuts and extras. Whereas, Resin Floors are mixed and poured to the exact size required for the flooring area.
Cleaning
Some flooring systems are harder to clean than others. This is sometimes due to their physical shape, with lots of cracks and dips. Sometimes it is due to their material, with some floors taking more products to clean than others. While there are eco-friendly cleaning products, most companies still use chemicals, which can have a negative impact on the environment. A smooth, modern flooring system like Epoxy Resin is simple to clean, which reduces the amount of cleaning products you need to use.
Lighting
Dark rooms are harder to keep lit. This might seem simple, but it is an underrated element of choosing the right floor. Environmentally friendly flooring should contribute to making a room bright and well lit. A shiny and colourful floor, particularly in a larger area, can contribute to reducing the amount of lighting needed to keep the room bright.
Disposal
No floor lasts forever. All systems have an estimated length of use – which can be less if the floor is subject to heavy use. This means that floors need to be replaced. A floor that doesn’t last long is not environmentally friendly. Environmentally friendly flooring also needs to be safe to dispose of, with minimal damage to the environment. Resin flooring, for example, can be re-laid over an older layer, creating no waste in disposal.
Epoxy Flooring
Epoxy Resin flooring is some of the most environmentally friendly flooring available. It minimises waste and over use of resources – while being attractive in appearance. Moreover, it also has a number of other benefits that might make it right for your business.
Easy to fit
Epoxy resin flooring systems are easy to fit and apply across many flooring areas. They can be applied in multiple ways, either by hand or as a pour, and can be applied across a range of prior flooring surfaces.
Hard Wearing
Epoxy resin flooring can put up with a lot of use. Whether you are using industrial machinery, heavy vehicles or simply have a lot of footfall, epoxy resin flooring can stand up to any of it. Water damage, oil spills, chemical resistance – epoxy resin flooring is long lasting, whatever your business can throw at it – making it one of the most environmentally friendly flooring systems.
Cheap
Cleaning and repairing epoxy resin flooring is simple and cheap. As it provides a smooth surface, cleaning takes fewer chemicals and can be achieved quicker. Repairing a broken section is as simple as re-pouring over the damaged area with a seamless effect.
Maintenance Contracts can help you discuss what the right flooring system is for you. Whether you are focusing on the most environmentally friendly flooring, or you simply want the hardest wearing, we can help. Get in contact, and let us find you the perfect floor.