Glass Tile Maker Recycles Seattle’s Glass

A maker of custom glass tiles has joined the LinkUp program of King County, Wash., to solidify its connection with the recycling industry.

Bedrock Industries, Seattle, transforms glass cullet into decorative tile, dinnerware and other specialty items in colors ranging from cobalt blue and fiery orange to celery green and luminous white. The company used more than 50 tons of recycled glass in 2001 to make its products.

In King County, finding markets for recycled glass is considered a high priority, according to the county’s Department of Natural Resources and Parks. The LinkUp program offers technical and promotional support to eligible businesses in the Seattle area.

Through the LinkUp program, which it joined earlier this summer, Bedrock Industries and the King County Solid Waste Division will test glass tile products for performance factors such as thermal shock, water absorption, friction, abrasion and strength.

The company was founded by glass artist Maria Ruano in 1993. The company sorts recycled bottles into like-colored glass and then pulverizes them. The glass is then put into molds and heated in kilns to make tiles, wind chimes and other products. The tiles—typically used to make floors, countertops and walls surrounding pools and hot tubs—are shipped to retailers and manufacturers throughout the country.

Bedrock, which procures its glass from curbside recycling programs and other sources such as stained glass manufacturers, joins a list of 10 other Seattle area companies that have joined the LinkUp program, including companies that recycle scrap plastic, concrete, wood and other materials.