If you are attempting a green remodel or are trying to lessen your carbon footprint, you’re already on the right track as remodeling is inherently greener than rebuilding. Lessen your impact on the environment as you remodel your home to be more energy efficient. Schedule an energy audit Hire a professional to inspect your home to uncover possible inadequacies such as air leaks or equipment inefficiencies. There are also a variety of online tools to assess your home’s energy efficiency. Not only can this enable you to heat and cool your home more efficiently, it can help you reduce your energy costs as well. Eliminate toxins Even though all paint is now lead-free, go the extra mile and use a paint that is low-VOC or zero-VOC to remove toxins. VOCs (or volatile organic compounds) are emitted gases that negatively affect your health and pollute the air. Install energy-efficient lighting Save energy and cut down on bills by replacing traditional incandescent bulbs with halogen incandescents or light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Although LEDs may have a higher initial cost, each bulb can last up to 20 years and create energy savings of up to 70%. Plus, you don’t have to buy bulbs as frequently! Rethink your countertops Consider a paper-based countertop that is created from tree pulp (from sustainable forests). It comes in a variety of colors and is stain-, scratch- and heat-resistant. Terrazzo is also a green choice that is made from recycled glass. It’s durable and there are limitless color options. Salvage furniture Repurpose old furniture to use in your newly remodeled space. This green act prevents the harvesting of new trees and diverts waste from landfills. Buy high-efficiency appliances Splurge for high-efficiency appliances that will pay off in the long run. Consider replacing your washer, dryer, refrigerator or dishwasher. Build a rain garden Rainwater picks up pollutants such as fertilizer and oil, takes them to storm drains, and then dumps them into rivers and lakes. A rain garden is different from a traditional garden as the plants are arranged in a shallow depression to help soak up rainwater. When designing your outdoor space, use rubber mulch (which is made from 100% recycled tires) and synthetic grass. Synthetic grass doesn’t require mowing or water and stays a beautiful green color all year round. Still love the feel of something natural...
If you are attempting a green remodel or are trying to lessen your carbon footprint, you’re already on the right track as remodeling is inherently greener than rebuilding. Lessen your impact on the environment as you remodel your home to be more energy efficient. Schedule an energy audit Hire a professional to inspect your home to uncover possible inadequacies such as air leaks or equipment inefficiencies. There are also a variety of...