| Deciding to renovate instead of constructing a new home is the first step in eco-friendly remodeling. Reusing existing materials provides for the most negligible environmental impact. Incorporating sustainable, renewable, and recycled materials, energy efficiency, water conservation, and indoor air quality in the design of your remodel will make your home more comfortable and have the lowest impact on the environment.
Here’s a guide on incorporating sustainable and eco-friendly upgrades into your home. |
Energy-Efficient Appliances and Lighting
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| Upgrade your home with energy-efficient appliances and lighting fixtures. Look for appliances with the ENERGY STAR label, indicating they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines. Choose LED lightbulbs as they consume less energy and have a staggeringly longer lifespan than traditional incandescent bulbs. LED bulbs afford approximately 50,000 hours of light, with some brands boasting as many as 100,000 hours. If you use your lights for 10 hours daily, LEDs should serve you well for close to 14 years. They are now available in several color temperatures, including warm white, cool white, and daylight. |
Use Smart Home Technology
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Illustration: Greener Ideal
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| Incorporate smart home technology to optimize energy consumption. Smart thermostats, for example, learn your heating and cooling patterns and adjust accordingly, helping you save energy. You can also invest in smart lighting systems and automated window treatments to maximize natural light and passive heating and minimize energy usage. |
Look for Sustainable Flooring
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| Choose eco-friendly flooring options to enhance the sustainability of your home. If you have hardwood floors, refinishing rather than replacing them has the most negligible environmental impact and will likely be the most cost-effective. Consider sustainable materials like bamboo, cork, sustainably harvested wood, or reclaimed wood. Remember that the material may be sustainable because it continues to grow, but it is not eco-friendly if shipped from a long distance. Materials like tile and linoleum are long-lasting, easy to clean, and not damaged by water. Linoleum from natural materials such as Flax seed oil, wood flour, pine rosins, jute, limestone, and pigments can last up to 40 years. Vinyl flooring, however, is not eco-friendly as it is made from petroleum. |
Use Recycled and Reclaimed Materials
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| Embrace the charm of recycled and reclaimed materials in your remodeling project. Incorporate reclaimed wood for flooring or accent walls, countertops made from recycled glass or concrete, and fixtures crafted from recycled metals. These materials not only add character but also contribute to the reduction of waste. |
Pay Attention to Insulation and Ventilation
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| Ensure your home is adequately insulated to conserve energy. Proper insulation helps maintain a consistent indoor temperature, reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling. Additionally, invest in efficient ventilation systems to improve indoor air quality and reduce the need for air conditioning. |
Opt for Native Landscaping
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| Extend your eco-friendly approach to the outdoors by incorporating native and drought-tolerant plants in your landscaping. Native plants are adapted to the local climate, requiring less water and maintenance. This supports biodiversity and creates a more sustainable and resilient landscape. Plant deciduous trees on the South side of your home that provide summer shade and winter sunlight for future generations. |
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Photo: Dig Your Garden
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Choose Eco-Friendly Paints and Finishes
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| Opt for low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) or zero-VOC paints, finishes, and adhesives. Traditional paints release harmful chemicals, contributing to indoor air pollution. Eco-friendly alternatives minimize the environmental impact and are better for your health. |
Use Eco-Friendly Window Treatments
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| Select window treatments that enhance energy efficiency. Options such as thermal curtains or shades help regulate indoor temperatures by reducing heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. This results in energy savings and increased comfort. |
Choose Energy-Efficient Windows and Doors
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Photo: © rh2010 / adobe stock
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| Upgrade to energy-efficient windows and doors that improve insulation and reduce energy costs, with the added benefit of noise control. Look for products with high energy performance ratings to maximize efficiency. |
Sustainability is an Ongoing Process
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| Commit to ongoing sustainability by incorporating eco-friendly practices into your daily life. Perform regular maintenance on energy-efficient appliances, ensure proper insulation, and continue to explore ways to reduce your environmental impact.
A sustainable and eco-friendly home remodel is an investment in the future and a responsible choice for the present. Integrating these practices into your home remodeling project, you contribute to a greener planet while enjoying the benefits of a healthier and more energy-efficient home. |
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