Eco-Friendly Kitchen Worktops
Kitchen worktops are both practical and visually attractive, which is why they are considered as one of the most important aspects of the kitchen environment. Nowadays, there are great alternatives for those who care for the Earth, like plastic based and traditional quarried materials. The green kitchen worktops are known today as the best innovation especially for those who are conscious to the wellness of the surroundings.
Eco-friendly kitchen worktops are produced from different resources including recycled tubs, sinks, toilets, glass and porcelain. Surprisingly, there are worktops that come from recycled paper. You will also find some that are made out of aluminum chips. Do not worry because they are combined with strong materials such as cement and fly ash, which is one of the remains from the production of coal. If these are not used, they would only end up as landfills.
Kitchen worktops that are paper based are made by means of using resin to treat tree pulp. Then the manufacturers will be baking and pressing it in order to create the solid sheets. The use of recycled paper varies depending upon the product. At times, all the paper would come from managed forests but there are also some that utilize 100% recycled waste. Paper based worktops are similar to the hardwood counterparts but they are actually much more durable. They can stand heat of up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. If under normal use, they can stand the tests of scratches and stains. The main drawback here is that there are limited colours for you to choose from. In particular, they are in solid colours only and the colour used is consistent all over the material.
Another environment friendly countertop that you can find is made out of glass. They make use of recycled porcelain and glass as the primary materials. The manufacturers require coloured resin in order for them to bind the material. This process results to a wide array of colour options for the countertops. The finish is smooth and polished and can even be compared to granite in many ways. This particular type of kitchen worktops is a great substitute for quarried stone. While glass based worktops are stain and heat resistant, it is advised that one make use of heatproof pads and cutting boards. But of course this is also recommended for the other types of kitchen worktops.
There are also kitchen countertops that are rich in cement instead of using other materials. Companies that utilise cement exploit a kind of eco-friendly cement which is combined with many other recycled materials. They come in a wide variety of colours and offer a high level of protection against heat and stains. Regular sealing can support the surface’s life.
Kitchens do not seem complete without kitchen worktops. They not only beautify the said part of the house but they are also convenient even for families with little kids. Plus, you can promote the environment’s welfare with the eco-friendly countertops that utilize green and recycled materials for a more innovative look for your kitchen.