5 Ways For Sustainable Home Renovation

Posted by Robcummings Contracter on February 12th, 2019

When faced with the options of conventional methods of construction and sustainable methods, some people might question why they need to be sustainable while building their homes. It is important to understand that today we live in a world where energy is becoming more expensive and we are faced with the most pressing issue of climate change. No matter what some leaders might say, climate change is real and it is our fault. So, when you look for home renovation services, ensure that you look for those that are eco friendly. Using eco friendly methods will not only allow more efficient means of energy consumption but also reduce your carbon footprint on the environment.

Here are 5 ways in which you can get your home renovated in a more sustainable fashion:

1. Use reclaimed wood

Rather than looking for the newest and shiniest type of wood in the market, go for reclaimed wood. Reclaimed wood refers to wood that has been retrieved from its original use for other purposes. The use of this type of wood is not only environmentally sound but it also makes a great style statement. Modern interior design makes use of reclaimed wood for kitchen counter tops, floors, tables, shelves and even walls.

2. Use energy efficient appliances

When you think about renovating your kitchen, you may want to get rid of old appliances such as refrigerators and ovens. Buy appliances that are energy efficient and more sustainable. A lot of new refrigerators do not produce as much CFC as they used to do in the past. Moreover, using such appliances will also ensure that your electricity bill is not exorbitant.

3. Make use of natural light

If you live in an area that is sunny most of the year, you can install big windows and skylights to make the most of it. Keep your blinds and curtains open during the day and let the sun in, so that you do not have to use artificial lighting. The sunlight pouring in during the day also keeps the house warm in the winters and the wind blowing in though the windows keeps it cool in the summers.

4. Use eco- friendly paint

The use of eco friendly paint is on the rise today. Unlike conventional paint, this type of paint does not contain chemicals that evaporate into the air when the paint dries. VOC, or Volatile Organic Compounds, which is found in conventional paint, can stay in the walls for more than five years after application. Continued exposure to VOC can cause lung cancer, skin cancer, asthma and also kidney damage. You can ask your home renovation serviceproviders for more details on eco friendly paint.

5. Deconstruct your home

When renovating, do not destroy everything. Before the walls are brought down, salvage all that you can later re-use. This is not only sustainable but also a great way to save money. Wooden panels, light fixtures, window frames and even flooring can be deconstructed to make other things. For example, with a few simple changes, you can turn a boring old window frame into a book shelf. 

Eco-friendly homes provide all the amenities and comfort that conventional homes do. You must also not doubt their durability. It is our responsibility to save the environment and make the world habitable for our future generations.

Author’s bio: The author is a blogger. This article is about sustainable home renovation.