Sustainable materials
When you repair or replace materials inside or outside your home there are a range of sustainable materials and building products you could consider using. It is often worth enquiring about the alternatives and if the product you choose can be recycled in the future.
Timber
- Timber from FSC managed forests is a renewable material, that is non-toxic and can be recycled.
- FSC certified timber if more sustainable for replacement windows and doors than aluminium or UPVC products.
- Timber can be very durable if you maintain it.
Recycled materials
- Recycled materials such as salvaged bricks, tiles, flooring etc can be an appropriate choice aesthetically as well as containing embodied carbon.
Steel
- Steel is the most recycled material in the world.
- It uses a lot of carbon to process, but is a valuable material resource.
Insulation products
- Insulation products are available that are made from materials such as recycled plastic.
- Many can be recycled in the future.
Natural Materials
- Natural Materials avoid toxic chemicals and are often biodegradable.
- Natural insulation products include woodfibre (Steico), cork (Diathonite), cellulose fibre (Warmcel), sheep’s wool (Thermafleece) and hemp (Hempcrete).
Bamboo
- Bamboo is a fast growing sustainable building material and can be used structurally as well as for internal finishes to walls and floors.
Natural stone
- Natural stone and slates are long lasting and can be reused.
Tiles
- Tiles are available that are made from recycled glass, stone and industrial waste.
Carpets and underlays
- Carpets and underlays can be made from materials such as recycled fishing nets, plastic bottles, and industrial waste.