Level: Floor coverings

Appearance and durability are the key criteria for selecting floor coverings but it's also important to consider the environmental impacts.

This guide covers factors such as:

• resistance to wear and moisture
• ability to withstand chemical attack
• suitability for the substrate
• embodied energy - the amount of energy consumed to manufacture, transport, install and recycle the product
• ability to recycle or reuse.

All the main options available are covered, from carpets to wood overlays, concrete to cork, solid timber to stone.