Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword as more and more homes work to reach a net zero. As the quest for eco-friendly living gains momentum, surfaces like concrete countertops are stepping into the spotlight.. Long renowned for its versatility, concrete is now being celebrated for its sustainability credentials too. Here are 5 reasons why concrete countertops are a green choice for your home.
1) LEED points
LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. It’s a voluntary rating system that assesses the sustainability of new and existing buildings. The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) created LEED in 1998, and it’s the most widely used green building rating system in the world. LEED covers the design, construction, and operation of all types of buildings, and aims to improve their environmental and health performance. You can read more about the LEED rating system here. The use of precast concrete can contribute to multiple LEED points, depending on the specific project and concrete countertops are great way to add LEED points while creating a beautiful surface.
2) Eco-Friendly Ingredients
The sustainability of concrete countertops starts with their basic ingredients. Traditional concrete mixes comprise cement, water, and may include recycled aggregates such as crushed glass or marble. While cement production is energy-intensive and can contribute to carbon emissions, modern advancements are improving the eco-friendliness of concrete mixes. Portland Cement Manufacturers are increasingly incorporating recycled materials like fly ash, slag, or calcined clay into their mixes, reducing the reliance on virgin materials and diverting waste from landfills.
3) Energy Efficiency in Production
The production process of concrete countertops can also be optimized for energy efficiency. Techniques such as using locally sourced materials to reduce transportation emissions, implementing energy-efficient manufacturing practices, and incorporating renewable energy sources into production facilities all contribute to reducing the environmental footprint of concrete countertop production. Other man made materials, such as quartz or porcelain and sintered stones, rely on large production machinery to add heat and pressure to the product for bonding, but concrete generates its own heat when it cures. Concrete is a natural exothermic reaction that requires no exterior source to cure and harden.
4) No waste
Another aspect of sustainability lies in the adaptability of a material. Concrete countertops offer unparalleled customization options, allowing homeowners to tailor the design to their preferences while ensuring a timeless aesthetic that can withstand changing trends. Moreover, 90% of concrete countertops made in the USA are not made into slabs that are cut, they are made to the exact shape and size for each project, producing no or very little waste. While other materials have waste from being cut from a slab, concrete does not. Unlike other materials, should the need arise for renovations or updates in the future, concrete countertops can be refinished rather than replaced, reducing waste and extending their lifespan.
5) Locally Manufactured
90% of concrete countertops are locally manufactured in the USA, so you are supporting a local small business by using concrete countertops in your home. Each concrete artisan has their own style and technique and concrete countertops have so many options, you are sure to find a concrete artisan in your state that can bring your dream to life! Click here to see a video about our process.
