Many people want to be more environmentally conscious these days. Luckily, going green is easier than you may think. These four eco-friendly home renovations prove that you can help save the earth without sacrificing on style and efficiency.
1. Go low-flow to start eco-friendly home renovations
Even if you don’t live where droughts are common, water conservation is important. Installing low-flow toilets and shower heads is a great way to conserve water. Today’s low-flow fixtures and appliances make saving water easy and automatic. New models of low-flow shower heads provide plenty of water pressure.
The same goes for low-flow faucet aerators and faucets in the kitchen and bathroom. Not only do newer faucets use less water, they are also sleek and stylish.
Another great upgrade is a new toilet. New water-conserving toilets get the job done while using far less water than models from previous decades. All of these new fixtures will reduce the amount of water used in your home—and that can significantly decrease your water bill.
2. Replace your roof
Some eco-friendly home renovations will greatly increase your house’s overall curb appeal, such as replacing your roof with metal roofing. Metal roofing provides many environmental benefits and it’s one of the most eco-friendly home renovations homeowners can make. These roofs are extremely durable and typically have a lifespan of over 60 years.
Metal roofs do not have to be replaced as often as roofs built with other materials, and this greatly reduces the amount of waste that ends up in a landfill. Additionally, metal roofs consist of mostly recycled material and are almost completely recyclable at the end of their long lifespan. They’re also finished with a high-quality resin coating that will greatly reduce energy costs and is certified by Energy Star.
3. Install energy-efficient appliances
Save money and the planet at the same time by installing energy-efficient appliances throughout your home. Start small and replace the light bulbs in your home with more energy-efficient lighting, such as LED bulbs.
You can also replace larger, high-energy appliances, such as refrigerators and dishwashers, with more efficient models. Be on the lookout for Energy Star certified products when you shop for appliances. These products meet all regulations set by the US Environmental Protection Agency or the US Department of Energy and are guaranteed to be more efficient than other appliances
4. Use Reclaimed materials
Rather than using brand new materials and furniture for your home renovation, try using reclaimed or recycled items instead. Reclaimed wood, glass, and metal are currently very popular—and they look great.
You can use low-cost salvaged wood to update flooring or trim work. Plus, reclaimed metal can give your home a personal touch. Utilizing reclaimed materials will reduce the need to cut down existing trees. And that’s a positive move that helps the environment.
Once you have made the eco-friendly home renovations described here, make some low-cost room makeovers to give your favorite rooms a fresh, new look.
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