If you’re like us, you love the environment and want to show that love by using sustainably sourced items to make your home eco-friendlier. If you’re looking for some tips for choosing sustainable materials for your home, we’ve got you covered. Read our comprehensive guide below.
Look for products with key terms
Everyone knows the term “recycled” is usually a sign of sustainable materials, but what are some other terms to keep an eye out for? Look for terms such as “reclaimed,” “reusable,” “renewable,” and “locally sourced.” You’ll often find these terms alongside materials such as cork, bamboo, and salvaged lumber. Our materials are purposefully sourced and handcrafted, connecting your home to the sustainable practices we all so desperately want.
Purchase materials that will last
A sustainable home reduces waste and energy; one way to achieve that is to reduce the amount of items you’ll have to replace over time. In other words, you should invest in durable, high-quality materials because you’ll significantly reduce the amount of items you need to replace and, ultimately, reduce unnecessary waste.
It’s crucial that you do your research on companies that claim to have sustainable and locally made products. Unfortunately, a lot of companies don’t actually use sustainable practices, despite their claims. At Hardwood Design Company, we welcome you to visit our manufacturing facility to witness our products’ sustainable journey. Additionally, high-quality products will save money on repairs or replacements in the long run, and who doesn’t want that?
Shop small and locally when possible
In addition to economic benefits, small local businesses are more likely to offer sustainable products for a few reasons. First, small businesses don’t have a bunch of shareholders expecting more profits, so the owner can make better ethical decisions. Second, small businesses tend to take a lot of pride in their work––we know we do. Now, that’s not to say large corporations don’t, but they’re less inclined to use sustainable materials because of the previous point. Finally, by shopping small and preferably locally, you reduce the energy use and waste that goes into the shipping process.
We understand purchasing sustainable materials isn’t always possible, but our tips will hopefully help you make more sustainable decisions. Whether you’re looking for reclaimed hardwood flooring, siding, or windows, you should at least know what to look for after reading our tips for choosing sustainable materials for your home.
As we mentioned, “reclaimed” is one of those key terms to keep an eye out for. When you see the word “reclaimed,” be sure to do your research and to remember to ask specific questions such as, “What makes your material reclaimed?” At Hardwood Design Company, we specialize in salvaging wood from the U.S. and crafting it into something special. If you’re looking for authentic architectural wood products for your home that will last a lifetime and beyond—such as wide plank flooring or custom ceiling or wall material—contact us today. We’d be happy to set up a design consultation with you.