Does your home feel a bit outdated and in need of some tender loving care? As you start planning your remodel project, you might be wondering how to make sustainable choices that are better for the environment (and your wallet). The good news is that going green during a renovation has never been easier or more stylish.
From countertops made of recycled materials to smart home technology that reduces your energy usage, there are so many eco-friendly options available today. Making sustainable swaps doesn’t have to mean compromising on style or functionality.
In fact, many sustainable building products are just as beautiful and durable as conventional options, if not more so. And starting a sustainable renovation is easy with the Statewide remodeling Oklahoma experts, who can guide you through the best options for your home. Here is a guide to eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient upgrades that you could use for your next home remodel.
Sustainable Flooring
One of the first things people notice when they enter a room is the flooring. Choosing environmentally friendly flooring is an easy way to reduce your renovation’s carbon footprint. Here are some of the materials that you can consider:
- Bamboo floors are an excellent green choice as bamboo is a rapidly renewable grass that can be easily replenished.
- Cork is another sustainable option made from bark that doesn’t damage the trees during harvesting.
- For those who prefer a more traditional look, reclaimed or salvaged hardwood floors give new life to quality materials that would otherwise end up in landfills.
Eco-Friendly Countertops
Countertops are a focal point of any kitchen or bathroom remodel. Luckily, there are a number of sustainable solid surface options to choose from these days:
- Quartz and recycled glass countertops are extremely durable, stain-resistant, and made from waste materials that would otherwise end up in landfills.
- Concrete countertops made with fly ash (a byproduct of coal plants) or recycled materials are another smart earth-friendly pick.
- If you want a completely raw and natural look, consider wood countertops made from sustainable harvested or salvaged wood.
Insulation and Air Sealing
While not the most glamorous part of a remodel, upgrading your home’s insulation and sealing air leaks can dramatically improve energy efficiency (and save you big on utility bills). Spray foam insulation creates a very effective air barrier while materials like cellulose, cotton, and sheep’s wool provide excellent insulation with little to no environmental impact. An energy audit can identify areas where the air is leaking out and insulation needs to be added or replaced.
Windows and Skylights
Those outdated, drafty windows you currently have are likely doing you no favors when it comes to heating and cooling costs. Replacing them with new energy-efficient windows makes your home more comfortable while reducing energy waste. Look for ENERGY STAR-rated windows with double- or triple-pane glass and low-e coatings. You can also add skylights to increase natural light within your home and reduce reliance on artificial lighting during the day.
Water Conservation
With droughts occurring more frequently around the country, conserving water is becoming essential. Low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets are easy green upgrades that can significantly reduce your home’s water usage.
On the appliance front, ENERGY STAR washing machines and dishwashers are designed to use less water while still providing optimal cleaning performance. You may also want to consider installing a greywater system that repurposes used household water for non-potable uses like irrigation.
Lighting and Smart Home Tech
Switching out your old light bulbs for LED bulbs is one of the quickest and easiest eco-friendly upgrades you can make. LED lights use up to 90% less energy than incandescent bulbs while lasting exponentially longer.
For even greater energy savings, integrate smart lighting fixtures, thermostats, and appliances into your home that automatically turn off when not in use or make adjustments based on occupancy patterns. More advanced energy monitoring systems can provide insights into your home’s electricity usage so you can identify areas for improvement.
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Renewable Energy Sources
To take your home’s energy savings to the next level, look into installing solar panels or a solar roof. While the upfront costs are higher, the long-term benefits of generating renewable energy on-site include a lower carbon footprint, protection from rising energy costs, and a potential return on investment through energy credits and increased home value. For those unable to add solar, simply switching to an electricity provider that harnesses renewable sources like wind and hydropower can make your home more eco-friendly.
Going green with your remodel doesn’t require compromising on aesthetics or comfort. The latest sustainable building materials and energy-efficient products offer smart and stylish options for creating a beautiful home that’s easier on the planet (and your utility bills). With so many great eco-friendly choices available, why wouldn’t you want to make the sustainable switch?