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May 22, 2025At Ray Tiling, we’re seeing a growing number of clients looking beyond just design and durability. They’re asking how their tiling choices affect both their health and the environment. That’s where eco friendly tiling solutions come in. Whether you’re doing a full renovation or updating a small space, there are smart, sustainable materials that can help you breathe easier and build better.
What Is Eco Tiling?
Eco tiling involves using materials that are low impact, long lasting, and healthier for indoor environments. This includes:
- Low VOC adhesives and grouts – These reduce harmful chemicals in your home’s air.
- Tiles with recycled content – Less energy to produce, and fewer raw materials extracted.
- Sustainably manufactured products – Certified by GreenTag, EC1, or made in solar powered factories.
- Durable, long lasting materials – Less frequent replacement = less landfill waste.
It’s not just about being green for the sake of it. It’s about making smart choices that benefit your home and the environment.
How It Helps the Environment
- Lower Carbon Emissions: Tiles made with recycled content or local materials reduce the energy used in production and transport.
- Reduced Waste: Longer lasting tiles and durable adhesives mean fewer materials ending up in landfill.
- Sustainable Sourcing: Choosing responsibly sourced stone or MCM tiles supports ethical and eco conscious supply chains.
How It Supports Your Health
- Cleaner Indoor Air: VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) are chemicals that can off gas from adhesives and grouts. Using low VOC or VOC free products reduces respiratory irritation, headaches, and long term exposure risks.
- Mould and Moisture Resistance: Many eco grouts and sealants are formulated to resist mould and bacteria without using harsh chemicals.
- Non Toxic Finishes: Modern eco tiles are often finished without glazes or sealers that release toxins over time.
Eco Tiling Materials: Options We Can Recommend
We can use eco friendly adhesives and grouts on your project, and while we don’t supply tiles ourselves, we’re happy to point you in the right direction when it comes to choosing sustainable tile options. Below are some well regarded materials available in New Zealand:
Product Type | Example Product | Key Eco Features | Certification/Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Adhesive | Mapei Ultralite S1 | Lightweight, low VOC, recycled content | GreenTag certified |
Ardex X77 Greenline | Very low VOC, high performance | EC1 certified | |
Grout | Mapei Keracolor FF / GG | Low VOC, mould resistant | GreenTag certified |
Ardex FG 8 | Water repellent, smooth finish | EC1 certified | |
Davco Sanitized Colorgrout | Anti fungal, low VOC | Green Star compliant | |
Tiles | Recycled terrazzo | Uses waste stone/glass | Locally produced (Giacon Terrazzo) |
Eco certified porcelain | Low impact production | Tile Warehouse eco range | |
MCM tiles | Lightweight, low carbon footprint | Available via VersaTiles NZ |
Whether you’re renovating a home or managing a commercial fit out, we can advise on and install materials that reduce environmental impact while maintaining high performance and aesthetics.
Want to Build Better?
If you’re planning a renovation and want to use cleaner, smarter materials, get in touch. We’ll help you tile sustainably without compromising on style, durability, or quality.
Ray Tiling – Specialists in High Quality Tiling with Eco Options Available Upon Request