Aug 23 2009
Concrete is known for being one of the greenest, most environmentally friendly materials on Earth. Concrete-Countertops.org has put together a list of seven convenient strategies for making concrete countertops as eco-friendly as possible. Consumers can share these strategies with their contractors to ensure that their concrete countertops are taking full advantage of concrete's eco-benefits.
Concrete kitchen countertop features decorative accents. Photo courtesy of DC Custom Concrete.
Described in more detail on the site, in order to maximize a concrete countertop's green potential one should follow these seven simple strategies:
- Use an eco-friendly mix to build the countertop.
- Take advantage of materials from local sources.
- Have the countertop made in a green manner by reusing materials, etc.
- Incorporate decorative accents by inlaying recycled materials.
- Use other earth friendly materials like nontoxic form-release agents and sealers.
- Go with a functional, timeless design.
- Consider a Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GFRC) countertop.
Without sacrificing durability and functionality, concrete brings new options for countertops. Now, with the rising trend to build more efficiently with less impact on the environment, there has been increased interest in the unique qualities of concrete.
"Solid surface materials are made of plastic, engineered quartz materials contain a synthetic resin binder, and granite and marble are nonrenewable mined resources" explains Jeff Girard, president of The Concrete Countertop Insitute. "Concrete contains mostly just good old sand, rock and cement."
Although, concrete isn't a completely eco-friendly product, one can take a number of simple steps, including the seven mentioned above, to reduce the ecological impact of countertops. Read more about concrete countertops at Concrete-Countertops.org.
Concrete-Countertops.org was created to guide homeowners and provide them with the proper tools and knowledge to create a custom concrete countertop that is an extension of an already existing living space. One of concrete's most alluring features is that it is an artisan's craft.
Concrete-coutnertops.org also brings together consumers and local concrete contractors by pointing to a nationwide contractor directory. Consumers can use the site to learn about concrete countertops, choose photos of designs they like, and then access the directory for contact information for concrete countertop contractors in their local area.