Going Green: Ceramic and Porcelain Tile

If you're considering installing ceramic, glass, or porcelain flooring tile anyway, then why not go for green tile? In fact, ceramic, glass, and porcelain flooring tiles are green to start with, since they're moisture resistant, long lasting, and environmentally friendly to manufacture compared to many other flooring options. Furthermore, they offer homeowners many easy options for turning them even greener. Last but not least, ceramic, porcelain, and glass tile flooring options allow you to go green without placing a big strain on your budget. Here's what you need to know about going green with ceramic and glass tile flooring.

Going Green with David Johnston
HomeAdvisor understands that it can be tough for homeowners to wade through all the "green" remodeling information out there, which is why we've teamed up with green remodeling expert David Johnston to provide you with the best, most accurate, green remodeling advice in the business. Johnston is the founder of the green consulting firm What's Working, Inc., the author of multiple books on green remodeling, (including the Nautilus Award winner Green Remodeling: Changing the World One Room at a Time), and he's an expert on green tile. That said, here's a green guide to installing tile in your home, drawn from the experience, wisdom, and writings of Mr. Johnston himself.

The Cost and Value of Green Tile
For starters, let's talk cost. After all, budget is a big concern on any remodeling project, and rumor has it that going green can add to your bottom line. The truth of the matter is that green tile is very cost-competitive with traditional tile projects. Specific upgrades will cost more, while others won't add a cent to the cost of your project. Recycled tiles, for example, may cost more than raw materials, but opting for an eco-friendly sealant is usually cost neutral or even a cost saver. That said, Johnston is also quick to point out that homeowners need to factor in the intangibles when it comes to assessing the true value of green remodeling. Things like high quality installation, low maintenance products, healthier homes, and investing in a more environmentally sustainable world for future generations all have value that goes far above calculations of dollars and cents.

Tips for Creating Green Ceramic, Porcelain, or Glass Tile

• Use Recycled Content Tile—Recycled content tile incorporates a large percentage of recycled material, everything from mining waste to glass bottles and old windshields, into the manufacturing process. Not only does this make good use of material that would otherwise be classified as "waste," but recycled content ceramic, porcelain, and glass tiles are just as durable, if not more so, than "virgin" alternatives.

• Use Recycled Materials—Even better than recycled content tile, consider using reclaimed ceramic, porcelain, and glass flooring tile for your project. The durability and long life of ceramic and glass tile make it an excellent option for homeowners who don't mind installing reclaimed tile that's been "gently used."

• Use Local Materials—If at all possible, purchase tile that is made locally. Since it doesn't have to be shipped cross-country to get to your home, you'll be doing the environment, and your pocketbook, a favor.

• Use a Low Toxic Sealer to Seal Grout—Grout can be a breeding ground for potentially dangerous mold and mildew. If you're installing tile in high-moisture areas, such as a kitchen or bath, apply a sealer to eliminate the problem. Furthermore, make sure the sealer is of the low-toxic variety, since many sealers can off-gas harmful VOCs into your indoor environment after being applied.

• Recycle Old Tile and Other Waste—As much as 85 percent of the construction waste sent to landfills can be recycled and used in other construction projects. If you're tearing up an old floor to put in a new one, be sure to reuse what you can (old trim, etc.), and send recyclable waste (reusable tile included) somewhere besides the dump.

Final Thoughts for Green Tile
While thinking green when it comes to tile a smart choice for your pocketbook and the environment, it's not unusual for homeowners to feel a little overwhelmed when presented with the full scope of green remodeling options. If you're feeling unsure about how green you're willing to go, there's no need to worry: going green isn't an all-or-nothing proposition. Any step you take in a green direction is a smart one, whether you buy recycled content tile or redo your flooring with reclaimed ceramic tile that otherwise would have ended up in the landfill. If you do think green is the right choice for you, talk with your contractor about adopting a green remodeling philosophy, find a contractor who specializes in green building and remodeling, or seek out the services of a green consulting firm so you can be sure that your new tiling project is as green as it gets.