Earth-Friendly Flooring

These five earth-friendly flooring options are not only good for the environment, but also durable, stylish, and good for your home.

This linoleum is made of natural, renewable recourses and inhibits the growth of bacteria.

» From Sunset

Rob. D. Brodman

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How to Live in the West

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Linoleum

What it is: Linseed oil, pigments, and pine rosin. Invented more than 150 years ago, linoleum remains one of the greenest products sold. It comes in many colors and patterns, doesn't require waxing, and can be cleaned with soap and water. Some have snap-together panels.

What makes it green: It's made of natural, renewable resources, no toxic or VOC-outgassing products are used in its production, and it inhibits bacterial growth. (Chemically sensitive people should be aware that it carries the distinct smell of linseed oil.) Click-together flooring doesn't require gluing.

Cost: $4 to $6 per square foot (tiles) or $30 to $40 per square yard (sheets).

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