Although it may not be the most common flooring material available, leather is gaining popularity among interior designers and homeowners alike. Leather tiles and panels are starting to be used more and more both as accents in a room and as the main flooring material. In this article, we’ll go over the benefits of leather and give reasons as to why choose a leather for flooring.
A Sustainable Resource
Because most leather is a byproduct of the cattle industry, using it as a flooring material means it doesn’t become a waste product that ends up in landfills. Harsh chemicals aren’t needed for its production. Leather flooring only requires a water-based finish and natural dyes so you won’t have problems with the off-gassing of volatile organic compounds that can cause health problems.
A Durable Material
Some people might think that leather flooring wouldn’t be very durable, but they would be very wrong. Leather flooring can actually outlast many other types of flooring materials. Leather is resistant to wear and tear and actually becomes more durable as it adjusts to its surrounding conditions. Leather makes maintenance simple and can be easily cleaned with soap and water – no harsh cleaners necessary. Leather tiles have been known to last 50 years or more.
A Practical Material
Leather is naturally flame resistant and can be easily treated to become water resistant as well. Leather also naturally absorbs sound and can be used to dampen noise in high traffic areas. It adapts well to the environment and can withstand both dry and humid conditions much better than a lot of the other more popular flooring materials. Leather will also help keep a room cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
A Versatile Material
Leather can make a striking statement or be very low key. It exudes a sense of sophistication that can add flair to a room or it can be used as an accent to highlight other features. Leather tiles can be easily replaced if they become damaged and won’t require refinishing the entire floor. Leather gives you a wide variety of choice when it comes to colours, textures and styles.
