Lacey, WA - Moving into a brand-new house usually means that all structures, fixtures, and appliances are also brand-spanking new. So it was bit disappointing that less than four years after the ECONET moved into our new Lacey headquarters, the flooring was showing more than just wear and tear.

"Moisture seeping up from the concrete sub floor became trapped and damaged the flooring material", according to Human Resources Director Gary Dastrup, "but our leaders did not bemoan the necessary repairs. Instead, they took it as an opportunity to lead the ECONET toward greater environmental sustainability and came upon a new flooring solution called Laytac, made from 40 percent recycled materials that is cost-efficient and perhaps most importantly, doesn't trap moisture and avoids what damaged the previous flooring in the first place."

Because the Laytac composite panels do not require any additional adhesives, much of the labor and installation costs were reduced. The panels are also removable and reusable, eliminating tedious and environmentally-unfriendly disposal procedures. The existing adhesive on the Laytac panels is enough to keep them firmly in place without sliding – even in heavily-trafficked areas. Since they've been installed in early fall, ECONET staff have easily erected and dismantled Halloween and Christmas decorations with little complication. And employees have even reported that the material is much easier on the feet – especially in high heels – than the old flooring.

On top of that, Laytac provides better insulation, which is especially important in the winter months to help the ECONET keep heating costs down. The Laytac flooring has been laid down in all of the common areas of Lacey headquarters, including the main lobby, commons area, and kitchen area. The floor work was paid for by the ECONET as well as the construction company and the building's owners.

We are proud of our history and collective achievements as an enterprise that promotes healthy living as well as social and environmental consciousness. The ECONET Green Team, made up of employees, continues to spearhead ways to help the company make more environmentally-friendly decisions. We are confident that the new floor will easily see us through the next four years and well beyond.