If you have recently decided to build a home and want to be as eco-friendly as possible, then you should consider using recyclable materials. Many people are surprised to hear that most homes can be built from the ground up with nothing but recyclables, and that practice is great for the environment. Here is a look at four ways that you can use recyclable materials during your home construction. 

Glass Tile 
Even though porcelain is a popular building material, the tiles can give off VOCs when they are being cut to size. Glass tiles, on the other hand, are made from old pieces of glass that don’t contain any dangerous toxins or chemicals. Many companies now make these tiles out of old solar panels and windows that have been removed from skyscrapers. 

Ash Concrete 
There are a few different reasons why some constructions companies only use concrete that has been made with fly ash. In addition to being completely recyclable, ash concrete is also very easy to work with. This type of concrete is a great option for buildings that are going to be exposed to extreme temperatures as well. When the temperatures rise and drop throughout the year, traditional concrete could potentially crack. After recycled ash is added to concrete, the final material is much denser and stronger. 

Cypress Pine Flooring 
Investing in second-hand flooring is another great way to adopt recyclable materials into your home construction project. Used cypress pine is sought after by many people because it resists rot and doesn’t harm the environment. Some other good flooring options that you might want to consider include Baltic pine, bamboo, and Oregon timber. All woods used in second-hand flooring are made more durable by the recycling process, making it overall an excellent option for those who want wooden floors that last long and are environmentally sustainable.

Bark Siding 
For many years, tree bark was an unwanted byproduct created by the lumber industry, but that has recently changed. Recycled tree bark is now being used as siding because it is eye-catching, durable, and sustainable. As an added bonus, tree bark is also a great form of insulation. When bark siding is backed by a vapor barrier, it will limit heat transfer throughout your home, and that is going to lower your monthly energy bills. 

Sustainable construction materials are more affordable than ever, and using those materials to build your home is a great way to reduce your impact on the environment. With a little bit of research and some planning, you might be able to design the home of your dreams with nothing more than recyclable building supplies.