Exterior
and Interior Finishes 
Much of the waste
that goes to landfill is building materials discarded due to short service
lives. Roofing and floor coverings make up the majority of this waste
category. Specifying highly durable, ultraviolet- and weather-resistant
cladding and roofing, durable floor finishes and releasable (those installed
with removable adhesive) carpet systems can substantially reduce long-term
waste.
Roofing and claddings
made from metals, ceramic, glass and concrete composites are the most
weather-resistant, having a service life several times that of asphalt
and plastic materials.
In Santa Monica’s
coastal climate, wood exposed to the sun and weather will deteriorate
due to ultraviolet exposure; moist, salt air and slow drying during
cool weather. Adequate flashing and protective coatings are necessary.
Cladding materials, such as wood-cement composites, are more resistant
to ultraviolet and moisture damage. They are also resource-efficient
since they contain wood and paper waste.
Hard flooring made
from ceramics or concrete, and durable resilient flooring of commercial
rubber and linseed oil linoleum have several times the service life
of vinyl flooring or carpets, and typically fewer indoor air quality
concerns.
To reduce waste
and cleaning problems, carpet use should be minimized in areas where
sound control and comfort are less important. This is especially important
in high-traffic areas, such as corridors. Releasable carpet systems
can be lifted and moved from low-wear to high-wear areas, extending
life several years beyond that of glued-down carpets. Several manufacturers
now offer leases for carpet use, and are responsible for repairing and
recycling the product. This reduces initial cost, and gives manufacturers
incentives to recycle materials.
Durable wall finishes
in heavy use areas, such as public corridors, lobbies, stairs and washrooms,
also reduce maintenance and replacement. Sturdy doors, tile or concrete
and damage-resistant millwork are good choices. Corner shields and guards
at floor level and wear layers on walls can protect vulnerable areas.
Cautions
- Some roofing
applications, such as flat roofs, have very limited options for durable
alternatives.
- Discarded carpet
is a very large part of the solid waste stream going to landfill from
building material replacements. Recycling options are currently limited.
- Durable materials
initially cost more, but save the building owner and tenant over the
long term. These benefits should be emphasized in marketing.
