/>
iStock
READ MORE ABOUT:
Green Carpet Basics
One of the most popular and widely used flooring options, carpeting is an inexpensive option, relative to most other flooring. And, while the industry has been working to green itself over the past years, it doesn't have a great reputation for sustainability, so there are a lot of considerations to vet before deciding on green carpeting. Let's dig in to it.
Pros of Carpet Flooring
Carpeting can be used in almost any room in the house, and, since it's cheaper than some other flooring options, can be a good way to get quality flooring for many rooms in your house. It's soft underfoot, warmer than hardwoods and other hard flooring, and a good sound absorber.
Cons of Carpet Flooring
If you've ever pulled up old carpeting, you know that it can be pretty dirty. In addition to absorbing sound, it absorbs dirt, dust, pollen, and other allergens, and it can be tough to get out (hint: Vaccuuming doesn't do the job). Those allergens, along with dust mites and other undesirables that can take up residence in the carpet or padding, can contribute to poor indoor air quality, and can be awfully tough to get out.
How Green?
Finding green carpet can take some diligence. From the padding, to the backing, to the carpet itself, many materials have traditionally come from petroleum-based sources. This is a double whammy; in addition to the fossil fuel use (a planetary no-no), these materials are often the very same that off-gas harmful volatile organic compounds. So, look for carpet made from natural or recycled materials—jute backing, instead of PVC, for example, and carpet made of recycled PET bottles—and for carpets certified by third-party groups, like Greenguard, for no to little impact on indoor air quality.
In addition to recycled content, many carpet manufacturers are now offering recycling or takeback programs, for when you're done with it, so look for one where you can take it back for recycling when it's time for replacement.
Where do I get it?
Where do I use it?
Carpeting is suitable for most every room in the house, though less so for areas where there are frequent spills—like the kitchen—or frequent dampness and moisture, like the bathroom.
What does it cost?
Carpeting ranges from about $1 or $1.50 per square foot up to $10 per square foot, or more, depending on the option you choose.
Installation?
Carpet is one flooring option best left to professionals, or someone with extensive experience laying it down. It requires some tools you may not have lying around the house, and it isn't as easy as rolling it out or tacking it down, so, at the very least, consult with somebody who really knows what they're doing.
More on green carpeting:
Recycled Content Carpets
TreeHugger Picks: Carpets and Rugs
Clean Your Carpets the Eco-Friendly Way
At IIDEX: Shaw Exoworx Cradle-to-Cradle Carpet
Join the Carpet America Recovery Effort
Green Glossary: Carpet Recovery
