Starting a Remodel? 5 Easy Eco-Friendly Updates to Incorporate in Your Remodel

Any room of your home can be improved by using eco-friendly materials or products, and if you’re planning to undergo a remodel anyways, this is the perfect time to incorporate these updates into your home design. Typically these eco-friendly updates are affordable, and not only are they beneficial for the environment, but they will end up saving you money over time. If you’re planning to remodel your home, here are a few eco-friendly updates that you might consider as your home is under construction.

Eco-Friendly Cabinets and Countertops

You can do a lot of eco-friendly updates when remodeling your kitchen, especially when it comes to your cabinets and countertops. Some eco-friendly cabinet materials include salvaged wood, bamboo, wood veneer and lyptus. When it comes to countertops, though you might love the look of granite, it isn’t very eco-friendly. Instead choose hemp or recycled paper. They are strong, durable and look great once they are installed. Most professional cabinet and countertop installers will have these materials available.

Green Flooring Options

Updating the floor with eco-friendly options is also a possibility, depending on which rooms you are remodeling. For instance, cork is a great material for floors, as is recycled glass. Bamboo can be used instead of wood and wool carpet is a great choice if you are looking to replace manufactured carpeting. Speak to a flooring expert for information on these options in order to find the best material and design for your home.

Ceiling Fan Installation

Due to high-tech heating and air conditioning systems, many people do not use ceiling fans anymore. However, these fans can be extremely helpful in circulating air. According to the professionals of Cydcom Services Ltd who specialize in Edmonton air conditioner installation, using a ceiling fan to help circulate air (in both winter and summer) can help to save on your heating and cooling bills. These fans can help circulate air throughout the home, especially during months when it isn’t hot enough for the AC, or cold enough for heating.

Water Efficient Showerheads

If you are working in the bathroom, consider the purchase of a water-saving showerhead. They are relatively inexpensive, can be installed in a matter of minutes and will help you to save money in the long run. Most water efficient showerheads on the market are 30 to 40 percent more efficient than the typical showerhead. That adds up to, on average, $75 a year for a typical household.

Buy an Energy Star Rated Washer and Dryer

If updating your laundry area, consider buying an Energy Star rated washer and dryer. You would be amazed by the amount of energy and water that is used when you run these appliances. On average, by making the switch, you can save over 27,000 gallons of water over the life of the washer and on average, the dryer will pay for itself in three to five years due to the energy savings.

Use Eco-Friendly Paint

Finally, since most home remodeling project include painting, make sure that you purchase eco-friendly paint. Traditional paint used in the home contains volatile organic compounds, or VOCs. These compounds harm the environment and according to some tests, are even considered carcinogens. Instead, choose a paint labeled as low-VOC or no VOC.

By making these small changes as you go through your remodeling project, you can ensure that your home is eco-friendly and highly energy efficient. Many people don’t make these changes because it seems excessive, inconvenient, or unnecessary. However, if you’re already doing work on the home, this is the perfect time to make some eco-friendly changes. You’ll be happy with the way your home functions, as well as the money you save by being environmentally conscious.

Photo credit: freedigitalphotos.net via Ponsulak