Eco-friendly living is all about choosing materials and practices that are beneficial to the environment. But did you know this can also include your renovation process and the materials you use?
“There are five things everyone should consider for an eco-friendly renovation: water conservation, air quality, energy savings, recycling, and buying sustainable lumber,” says home designer experts.
Assemble your green team
During a home renovation, you need to communicate to your architect, designer, and contractors your desire that the process is as environmentally sound as possible. When you’re vetting contractors, prioritize those who will demolish your home in a careful way and salvage materials like aluminum, wood, and glass.
Focus on the roof
Rooftop solar panels can help you save on energy costs and lower your carbon footprint, This includes newer, low-profile solar systems that integrate with existing shingles or tiles and blend seamlessly with the roofline. Another eco-friendly option is metal roofing, for example, in aluminum, copper, or steel. Pecora says this material lasts a minimum of 50 years and is usually 100 percent recyclable.
Prioritize energy-efficient products
Learn which types of appliances and household products are available in energy-efficient versions.
Energy-efficient windows and doors are essential to preventing heat and cold transference, protecting your home from harmful UV rays, and helping to keep maintenance costs down,Take a look at three measurements when selecting energy-efficient products: U-factor (or rate of heat loss), solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), and air leakage.
Consider concrete
Flooring comes in a multitude of eco-friendly options, including bamboo and cork, but concrete stands out as a clear choice for flooring and walls.
Concrete is one of the greenest materials out because it can be sourced locally and has less of a carbon footprint from production, transportation, and importation than other materials like tile, carpet, marble, and even wood. if you're concerned about concrete looking dark and gloomy, an acid stain can mimic the look of stone or marble and brighten the surface right up.
Repurpose and recycle materials from your home
The flip side to purchasing pre-loved stuff is deciding how to reuse or donate the items you already own. If you can't find a use for the materials in your home, there are always organizations that are willing to accept donations. Habitat for Humanity and Construction Junction take old kitchen cabinets and leftover lumber.
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