stone tile home

stone tile international | flooring comparison


    carpeting ceramic/porcelain vinyl/resilient tiles
  installation Relatively high waste (up to 20% not uncommon) in installation Low installation waste low installation waste
  recyclability Composite construction system of different fibre type's makes recycling difficult May be recycled and does not harm landfills. Many resilient floors are made from petroleum-based products which have significant environmental impacts in production - may not currently be recycled
  allergens If not properly maintained can be a significant harbour for allergens. non-porous - does not harbour allergens. does not harbour allergens.
  VOC emissions Significant if low-level emissions associated with the use phase.

Chemicals used in treatment carpet to protect against moisture and insect attack have an environmental impact. Potential long-term health effects poorly understood

Base product does not have VOC emissions.  Significant if low-level emissions associated with the use phase
    Installation adhesives may emit high levels of VOC. Very low VOC emissions in installation materials. Installation adhesives may emit high levels of VOC.
  maintenance High water and energy requirements of cleaning regimes Maintenance phase can have significant impacts Significant energy and VOC emissions associated with the maintenance phase
  life-cycle Relatively short life expectancy

Short life cycle requires more frequent replacement and hence more waste.  Because of composition, generally cannot be re-cycled.  Harmful in landfills.

Very long life-cycle

Long life cycle requires little replacement and hence significantly less waste.  Because of composition, if not recycled is inert and hence does not harm landfills.

Medium life expectancy

Medium life cycle requires replacement and waste.  Because of composition, generally cannot be re-cycled.  Harmful in landfills.