Many of today’s consumers are as interested in finding environmentally friendly building materials as they are discovering the best products for their money. Of course, there’s no single, simple answer.
The Environmental Protection Agency has identified Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) as a major contributor to hazardous indoor air quality. So if you’re concerned about your family’s health as well as the long-term health of the environment, you may want to look at countertops made of materials low in VOCs.
VOCs enter your home as gases. They’re found in paints, cleaning products, furnishings, and solvents. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by consumer stories and investigative reports. And so-called “green” materials can cost more of your green dollars than conventional products. I wanted to alert you of one material I’ve been reading about widely: Terrazzo. (Remember: I’m not endorsing anything.)
Countertops Materials and LEED Certifications
The U.S. Building Council has developed a certification system for evaluating building materials for toxicity, especially VOCs. LEED also measures water and energy efficiency, CO2 emissions, and building design and construction practices.
Concrete is a common choice, but it’s not considered a “green” countertop material. However it’s a long-lasting product that can be crushed and recycled, and when sealed properly, resists bacteria and does not typically emit VOCs. More recently, environmental builders are recommending terrazzo countertops and paper composites.
Terrazzo is comprised of 95 percent recycled glass and crushed stone, bound together by cement or epoxy. Sealed properly, it is durable and if bound by cement has a strong green rating. Epoxy, however, can release dangerous phthalate vapors. If you’re shopping around for an attractive, environmentally sound countertop material, have a look at terrazzo.
