Green Remodeling Tips for an Eco-Friendly Home

Eco-Friendly Home Remodeling

Green homes have become increasingly popular in today’s home building and remodeling industry. Of course when we say green homes we don’t mean the color, we mean homes that are built to be more eco-friendly. Green homes were once though to be unattainable and too expensive for the average home owner, but really they’re just as affordable and attainable as ever before.

As people have grown increasingly concerned about their contribution to the issues concerning our environment, the desire to prevent any issues relating to our future ecosystems health as well as future generations health has grown. It’s very important that we all at minimum, attempt to cut down on our carbon footprints, doing this does not require a ton of effort, it’s fairly easy to make just a few simple changes in your life that will greatly help the environment.

Terms like energy-efficient, sustainable, and recyclable have become more and more common when discussing building or home renovations. You too can create a green, eco-friendly home by applying these five green remodeling tips below.

Complete an Energy Audit

Before getting started on a major renovation, it’s important to find out exactly how much energy your home uses. Household issues like window and door leaks are common, outdated appliances, and inefficient systems that aren’t exactly eco-friendly not only are wasting energy, but are wasting you money.

Many homeowners are shocked when they take a look at how much energy (and money) they are wasting in their home. You can hire a professional to show you where your house is leaking air, this is a good idea for people who have older homes that haven’t been updated in years. When completing an energy audit, you will find the source of the problem and can get back to creating a green home.

Upgrading Insulation

Insulation is found in the space between the inner and outer wall of your home, when remodeling it’s very important to check the condition of your homes insulation. If you find areas that are damaged, lacking, or even need repairing don’t worry! There are a ton of eco-friendly solutions that are inexpensive and effective. Remember inefficient insulation can be a huge waste of energy, so it’s very important to make sure your home is well covered!

Utilize the Sun

Use the sun as a source of natural energy, and watch your electric bills go down! Installing solar panels is the most common way you can use the sun for energy, however it’s not the only way to achieve a green home. Use the sun to your advantage, plant some trees that will provide shade in the summer, when their leaves are gone the sun will still be able to keep your home warm in the winter. Install some shades or blinds that reduce sunlight, keeping heat out and cool air in, when the winter comes replace them for different window treatments meant to keep the heat in. By properly using sunlight you can save big on energy costs.

Replace Old Appliances

While spending thousands on new appliances may not seem like a cost efficient option, it will pay off in the long run. Depending on your budget and how necessary you feel appliance upgrades are in your home, you may or may want to hold off on this tip. Remember, older appliances were manufactured without energy consumption in mind, so if your stove, dishwasher, fridge, and washer/dryer are a little older, they could be using more energy than you even realize.

Shop Locally

Eco-friendly products are more than just the product itself, consider how they get to you! If something has to be shipped across the country, then it’s really not considered “green”. Locally sourced materials such as wood flooring and furniture from local business will give you that green aspect you’re looking for, while also giving business to small businesses in your area. Choosing locally sourced materials has many benefits aside from supporting small business, you are also more likely to choose the correct materials for your home, which can save you time and money when making your home more energy efficient.

 

Celebrate Earth Day this year by implementing some of these tips to when remodeling your home. Of course when doing an eco-friendly remodel call the professionals at Dumpster Rental Inc to for all of your dumpster rental needs! We proudly and properly dispose of your renovation waste at an affordable rate, keeping some green in your pocket! Call us today for a free quote and get started on your next rental from us at Dumpster Rental Inc!

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