Home renovations can be a great way to improve your home’s value or make your home a more liveable place. Within the construction industry environmentally-friendly products are fast becoming a popular way for homeowners to make their home a greener place, as well as to do their part for the planet. Here are a few tips you can use to think green in your home renovation projects.
If you are repainting a room or your entire home, use an environmentally-friendly latex paint. Be sure you let leftover paints dry before disposing of them, and do not dump paint down the drain.
Consider wood floors rather than carpets, and be sure they are from a forest source that uses renewable lumber practices. Wood floors are also easier to clean and require less maintenance.
Be sure you replace all appliances and hot water heaters with energy efficient models.
Consider installing solar panels or other renewable energy sources rather than replacing existing ones. There are government programs that can make this an affordable option.
For bathroom and kitchen renovations, install plumbing fixtures that will reduce your water consumption, such as dual-flush toilets and low-flow showerheads.
Consider using materials and supplies that have been salvaged. There are a growing number of businesses that offer used construction materials, and supporting them means less waste in our landfills. It can also be an affordable way to get quality materials or antique fittings for your home.
For larger jobs, be sure you hire a contractor who is familiar with green renovations and can offer you green products at a fair price. Asking for references is always a good idea.