The decision to renovate a home is not one that should be made lightly. Whether you are currently living in the property or doing work before moving in, there are many decisions to be made. Choosing to embark on an environmentally friendly renovation can lead to cost savings down the road. It will also help lessen the impact of your work on the rest of the property. There are many items, such as non-toxic paint available to assist home owners in a green renovation. Plan right and your home will not only look beautiful, but it will also leave a minimal impact on the environment.
The Plan
The first step in any home renovation project is coming up with a plan. Whether you are focusing on a specific area or redoing the whole property; it is important to have a plan in mind. Keep this fluid as unexpected situations may arise at any time. Your plan will also help you determine exactly what types of permits you will need. When in doubt, contact your local building codes office and they should be able to answer any questions you may have.
Choosing Your Materials
Once you have your plan in place and have secured all of the proper permits, it is time to start the construction process. The first step is choosing the materials needed for your renovation. While it’s not quite time to shop for the finishing touches quite yet, your choices now can impact how environmentally friendly the remodel will be. Be sure to choose products that are durable and will be able to withstand your environment.
One way to reduce the environmental impact of the remodel is to look into reclaimed or recycled materials. Choosing these can help reduce costs as well as give your property a unique look.
Focus on Energy
As your renovation continues it will soon be time to think about purchasing the products for your newly renovated space. If you are redoing your kitchen or laundry room, look for Energy Star rated products as these will help keep your costs low and will aid in reducing the impact on the environment. Many of these appliances come in varying styles and colors that can be adapted to fit your specific decorating taste. You can also buy smaller items such as light bulbs that can lower your energy costs.
Use Natural Resources
The environment is full of abundant resources just waiting to be tapped into by consumers. Some traditional sources are non-renewable such as coal. However, there is a recent trend to switch over to renewable sources like solar energy.
Installing solar panels during your home renovation can provide many benefits. Primarily it will help reduce your current utility bills. You may also have the opportunity to sell power back to your local grid. This occurs when the solar panels produce more energy than is needed for your home.
A Coat of Paint
One final touch for your renovation is to apply a coat of paint. By using non toxic paint you will not only reduce the fumes, but also the impact on the environment. Environment friendly renovation is necessary in modern home care.
Remodelling your home to be environmentally friendly will take work and planning. Choosing the right materials to reflect your style will allow you to add a personal touch while keeping your environmental impact to a minimum.
By James Cash, avid writer and eco specialist.
Marty Huggins
