Synthetic vs. natural flooring- what is better?

The   environmental-friendly path- why or why not?

In times like these, we all know that every choice we make should   be environmentally responsible on our part. However, doing so is not possible   at all times, especially due to financial and practical constraints.   Additionally, not all natural and sustainable products act as a better option   in comparison to synthetic alternatives- choosing the ‘natural option’ has   become more of a trend now, and knowing where to draw the line is important.   Just like everything else, choosing between synthetic and natural flooring   also comes with its own pros and cons on each side.

Synthetic Flooring

One of the biggest benefits in choosing synthetic flooring lies in   the fact that these are more affordable than the natural alternatives.   Synthetic materials used in flooring are also highly durable due to the   improved technology and design techniques that are involved. These are also   easier to clean and maintain, because their treatment with various soil   guards as well as repellents makes them resistant to stains.  This kind   of flooring also lasts longer, since it can cope up with high-traffic places   and not require frequent replacements. Replacement whenever needed, is also   relatively cheaper.

While all these benefits may make them sound as the perfect   option, these do come at a huge cost to the environment. Synthetic materials   are not sustainable and biodegradable, which makes them a hazard to the   environment. These are also more likely to have substances that may trigger   any allergy or respiratory condition.

Natural Flooring

The biggest advantage of using natural flooring, apart from its   unmatched quality and beauty, lies in the fact that these are obtained from   sustainable resources, and are also biodegradable- thus ensuring that these   substances will not add to the problem of waste pollution. They are also   resistant to bacteria, stains and insects naturally, without any special   treatments.

Natural flooring is, however, susceptible to damage, and   maintaining the appearance of this kind of flooring can often be quite   difficult. The amount of choice and variety that you have while looking for   natural floor materials is limited. The surface is also highly susceptible to   damage arising from the natural properties of the materials or fibers   used.

For most people, selecting synthetic flooring over natural is   about choosing their convenience above ethics. The final decision that you   take should not depend on a single factor- but on your practical needs,   lifestyle as well as aesthetic and ethical preferences that you   have.