Finding clothes and furniture at second-hand stores isn’t the only thing you can do to live sustainably. If you’re planning a home renovation, you should think about what you can do for a more sustainable home remodel. Continue reading these tips to learn how you can support the planet’s health.
Identify Features You Can Reuse
Be creative! The easiest way to be eco-friendly is to avoid buying new items. Take a good look at your house to see which items have reuse potential.
Sturdy kitchen cabinets only need a facelift with a new paint color or hardware. You can repurpose outdoor stepping stones as a kitchen backsplash. Wooden beams are great for a custom cabinet or dresser.
Focus on Energy-Efficient Appliances
Electricity powers almost everything in a home, from the dishwasher to the lights to the HVAC system. The energy required to power each device contributes to air pollution due to the emission of greenhouse gases.
During your home remodel, consider implementing energy-efficient appliances, including dishwashers, clothing washers and dryers, lightbulbs, HVAC systems, and even windows. These additions can minimize the negative impacts of your renovation project.
Remember the Importance of Insulation
During a remodel, you’re probably concerned with how the final product will look. Don’t forget to think about what’s hiding behind the drywall!
Insulation will transform how your home functions. The weather can greatly impact poorly insulated homes. Choosing high-quality insulation will reduce frequent usage of the HVAC system and improve your comfort in the home.
Utilize Reclaimed Wood When Possible
You’ll likely use wood to build sturdy foundations and custom details for your renovations. However, all that lumber comes at the expense of countless trees. While manufactured wood is essential for a sturdy foundation, you can compromise in other areas. Consider reclaimed wood for the flooring. You can also repurpose old wood doors for shelving in the kitchen or living room. It may seem like a small adjustment, but saving a few trees will make a difference.
Avoid Buying New Synthetic Materials
Synthetic fiber production requires the burning of fossil fuels. With each plastic, nylon, or polyester product you buy, you’re supporting businesses that contribute to pollution. Here are some examples of synthetic residential building materials:
- Siding
- Roof shingles
- Vinyl fences
- Fiberglass doors
- Laminate floors
- Urethane moldings
Buy natural or synthetic, second-hand materials whenever possible. The secret to remodeling a home sustainably is to consider how your actions will affect the environment.
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