Every kitchen has an impact on environment as it uses wood for cabinets and shelves along with countertops made of artificial materials. If you are concerned about the environment and want to make your kitchen clean and green, then go ahead and adopt these simple techniques. Eco friendly fittings in the kitchen can range from earth friendly kitchen counters to water efficient taps and energy efficient gadgets. To make your kitchen counter ecofriendly, you can use either natural stone which will be the best option.
Positives of natural stone counters
Countertops mined out of granite, marble, slate and also sandstone are in the form of chunks of stone in their natural state which are sawed up into slabs and polished for use. Lesser energy is used to make countertops from natural stone than from artificial materials like laminates and engineered stone. Making kitchen slabs from natural stone also produces less carbon emissions and thereby conserving the environment. Natural stones like granite and marble are more durable and easy to cut and attach. The average life period of all natural stone kitchen countertops is 30 years and that can be extended to a couple of more years with proper maintenance.
Types of green kitchen counter options
As each type of natural stone has its own strength and qualities they provide owners with several choices in terms of colors and patterns. While granite is hard and resistant to scratches and stains, marble is attractive and less expensive, when compared to granite. Granite constantly strives for buyer’s attention with mesmerizing wave-like design in the stone and mineral flecks that give it a starry night appearance.
Quartzite is also becoming a growing choice for people looking to purchase natural stone countertops. This stone is also an ecofriendly option as it belongs to granite family and is highly durable.
Marble has been a popular countertop choice among homeowners since early ages as it has extraordinary colors. Stone fabricators may be a little hesitant in recommending it due to ability to absorb things and cause stains. However, it is still preferred by most people due to its sheer and classic elegance.
Besides granite, marble and quartzite there are other natural stone choices like onyx and limestone that can be selected. All natural stones have their own coloration and variations which make them unique and priceless. When these natural stones are used, they reduce the harmful impact on natural environment. Natural stones are not bonded by petroleum resins nor are created in an environmentally polluting atmosphere.