Registered architects are obligated to inform clients of sustainable and/ or green materials and means of construction their building projects. In California, there are many Green Building Codes in place that ensure not only the safety of the consumer, and the installer but also that of the affected physical environment in which the material is placed. Materials that are found in nature or developed without a high level of processing can typically be considered sustainable.
Vinyl (though often chosen for it’s affordability) is not considered a green product. Not only is the manufacturing process extremely toxic, but phthalates plasticizers can leach or migrate into the environment. Humans are exposed to the dangers of vinyl migration through ingestion, inhalation, and dermal exposure.
In the housing market, vinyl windows ubiquitous. However, there are considerable alternatives on the market that are fairly competitive in price such as fiberglass or metal windows. In the long run, these alternates will add significant value and quality to your building project.
There are of course many green alternatives to vinyl flooring as well. Cork, linoleum tile and wood (preferably recycled or sustainably harvested such as bamboo) are a great alternative to plastic materials. Not only will the tactile quality and visceral ambiance of your home be enhanced, but so will your mental, physical and emotional health. As consumers, we vote for with our dollars. Let’s all choose greener materials when building to help, if nothing else, help reduce the affects of climate change.
FOXLEY DESIGN 