Go Green When Home Remodeling!

Tuesday April 22^nd is Earth Day which is celebrating its 55^th year of encouraging us to take better care of and protecting the environment by utilizing sustainable practices. When it comes to “green” home remodeling, it is an opportunity to utilize current knowledge and innovative products that are more energy and water efficient and create a healthier indoor environment. Green Remodeling uses sustainable materials and minimizes waste, and is less taxing on the environment than building a new home. It is like recycling and renewing your house! Here are some ideas to consider:

Do an energy audit. This is a smart place to start, for the loss of heated/cooled indoor air is expensive. A pro can determine if insulation is missing or inadequate, and if the windows or doors are a problem. Blown in cellulose or fiberglass insulation, or mineral wool batts are the healthiest choices, foam sprays are the least. The house may need low-e multi-pane windows.

Reduce energy and water usage. Look for Energy Star rated appliances, and Water Sense Certified fixtures. An older kitchen refrigerator can use a lot of electricity! Swap it out for a new one sized for your needs. Low-flow toilets and shower heads will make a difference, as will an efficient washing machine and dishwasher. Another major water waster is a leaking faucet—the loss adds up fast! Passive Solar Water tanks can supply ample hot water. Consider in-floor radiant heating in the bathroom to make it comfortable without needing to heat the whole house. A smart thermostat can also sense when you are not at home, and adjust the temperature that you set for “away” status, and enable you via your phone to reset it to the normal schedule as you are on your way home. There are “cool roof” products to reflect the sun’s heat.

Improve the quality of indoor air. Indoor air is often more polluted than outdoor air! Choose low to no/zero VOC paint, coatings, adhesives and sealants. Because of consumer demand, there are more cabinet, flooring, and furniture choices that are air quality friendly.

Utilize and manage the sun. Ample natural light elevates mood and productivity, and is what our eyes were made for! Consider the addition of skylights or solar tubes to increase indoor lighting where windows are not practical. On the outside, create microclimates with trees to give shade, especially shielding the home from the afternoon sun.

A Green Home Remodel offers reduced energy and water costs, improved indoor air quality,  increased home value, and enhances personal comfort and well-being while being eco-friendly. Check for tax credits or utility rebates. Customizing a home to meet current and future needs can delight and serve the homeowners for many years.