With housing prices skyrocketing, a modest renovation might be more feasible than a whole new home. Kitchens and bathrooms are popular rooms for a fix, due to their heavy use and ever-changing trends in hardware and design. It turns out that countertops have come a long way in recent years, with a wide variety of possibilities – many of which are environmentally conscious.
PaperStone is a composite surface material made of layers of recycled paper bound with petroleum-free resins (for example, cashew nut shell liquid). The result is a strong, stain- and abrasion-resistant product with a Class A fire rating (low flammability) and compressive strength of 45,000 psi. In addition to horizontal surface applications, PaperStone can also be used for panelling, cabinetry, and other uses. It comes in specific panel sizes but can also be custom-ordered. Standard woodworking tools are sufficient, but router and laser details are also possible with this material.
EcoTop is a biocomposite intended for use as countertop, tabletop, floor, or wall. It is made of certified bamboo and recycled wood fibre, set in a colourfast water-based resin. The result is a highly scratch- and stain-resistant surface, with a compressive strength of 50,000 psi. No petroleum or VOC ingredients are used in the manufacture. Currently, EcoTop comes in six colours, with the possibility of further custom shades. No special tools are required for preparation and installation of this material.
Kirei Board is made from waste sorghum stalks that are heat-pressed with an aqueous polymer isocyanate (API) adhesive called KR Bond. This particular adhesive, developed in Japan, has no phenols or formaldehyde – it contains vinyl acetate instead. Poplar wood layers are also included for aesthetic reasons. The processing has low energy requirements and produces minimal emissions and wastewater. Kirei Board does not emit VOCs, but it does need to be sealed – low-VOC finishes are recommended. It requires the usual woodworking techniques and tools. In addition, the company makes an MDF-like alternative called Kirei WheatBoard from wheat stalks, but without the formaldehyde and other VOCs. They also supply Kirei Bamboo for panelling and other uses.
IceStone surfaces are made with recycled glass in a cement matrix, creating a product that is durable, fire-resistant and nonporous. Pigments are added during manufacture, with more than 20 colours available, as well as the possibility of custom shades. Particular low- and no-VOC sealants are recommended for finishing these surfaces. IceStone has been certified for its sustainability and production efficiency, including a day-lit factory and soy-based machine lubricants. Stonework techniques work for this material.
Squak Mountain Stone is a concrete-like product that includes recycled glass, paper, fly ash, and more traditional Portland cement. Click here to read more about this material.
