These days, most companies have made it a point to focus on reducing their overall effect on the environment. As a result, they’re able to positively contribute toward the three pillars of sustainability (people, planet, and profits). One way for companies to do this is by opting for sustainable wood building products and other sustainable building materials while designing and building their space.
5 Sustainable Wood Building Products You’ll Love
Wood isn’t always recognized as a sustainable material, despite being the preferred material in many build and design projects. This is because wood is frequently associated with deforestation and illegal harvesting; however, wood is a renewable resource, and when it’s sustainably harvested, it can actually have a positive impact on the environment. Not to mention, in comparison to most man-made materials (think concrete or steel), wood is a much greener alternative.
Here are five sustainable wood building products that are great elements worth including on any commercial project.
1. Flooring
Hardwood flooring is available in a wide variety of species, with different grains and colors, making it easy to find what works best for your overall design. From lighter shades like pine and maple to darker tones like mahogany and ebony, you’ll be sure to find one that suits your preferences. What’s also great about hardwood flooring is that you can choose a type that’s ideal for a particular space; for instance, in areas where there will be a lot of foot traffic, it would make sense to install durable hardwood flooring, like red oak (hardness, or durability, is determined by the Janka hardness scale).
2. Walls
Wood walls have become increasingly popular in all kinds of spaces, and they’re a timeless aesthetic that truly never goes out of style. Custom wood walls can provide the design flexibility you need to create the space you envision. Want to fill a space with wood walls to produce a distinct feel? Thinking about adding a statement wood wall? Wood walls can make it happen with a result that’s sure to impress. With access to custom veneers, finishes, species, and perforations, you can find exactly what you need to achieve the look and feel you want. The options are nearly endless.
3. Doors
Wood doors may seem like a no-brainer, but nowadays, most doors are made of MDF (medium-density fiberboard), so they’re not actually wood; they’re just made to look like wood. Choosing real hardwood doors means you’re going to get all the benefits, including durable build; refined aesthetic; exceptional insulation; fire performance; and resistance to sound. Though there are many imitations on the market, there’s nothing that compares to a real, solid wood door. With more than 500 species of wood in existence, you’re practically guaranteed to find one that’s perfect for your design needs.
4. Ceilings
Most ceilings go unnoticed — yours doesn’t have to. If you’re looking for a sustainable ceiling alternative to boring drywall, then a wood ceiling feature might be just what you need. A classic choice that can bring a touch of nature into any space, a wood ceiling has a unique warmth and beauty to it that stuns in spaces of all kinds, including classrooms, business offices, financial institutions, and anywhere else!
5. Window Frames
From natural sunlight to fresh air, windows are an important part of any space, which is why they should always be considered in both the build and design phases. When it comes to windows, though, many miss out on an opportunity to be more green, and it all comes down to the material you choose for your window frames. In recent years, it’s become more common to choose vinyl, aluminum, or fiberglass window frames; however, wood window frames are recyclable and, if certified properly, considered an eco-friendly material. So if you’re looking to build sustainably, installing wood window frames is another way to do it.
According to the USGBC, green building “is generally accepted as the planning, design, construction, and operations of buildings with several central, foremost considerations: energy use, water use, indoor environmental quality, material section and the building’s effects on its site.” Incorporating wood materials — like walls and ceilings — into the space is a great place to start. Depending on the products you use for your build or design, you may even be able to accrue points toward LEED or WELL requirements.
Get Sustainable Wood Building Products for Your Next Project
When it comes to sustainable materials, you have many options to help you achieve a greener space. If you’re considering sustainable wood building products, take a look at our custom wood ceiling systems and wood wall systems. You just might find what you’ve been looking for!
Whatever your vision or plan, we can help you achieve it for your project. To learn more, contact our team today.
