Going green is all the rage right now, and for many good reasons. From transportation to business practices to products in our stores, more and more people and companies are shuffling off the old way of doing things in favor of more environmentally sound methods.
But, sustainable practices aren’t just good for the environment; they’re also extremely valuable when it comes to redecorating and powering your home. The National Association of Home Builders has been a huge advocate of green remodeling tactics. They’ve even created a guide to putting together “all-encompassing approach that emphasizes making a home healthy, comfortable, and efficient.”
The list of strategies for green living is long and detailed, and can get expensive in construction, but we’ve compiled a good introductory list of things to consider if you’re planning a home remodel - and have the color green in mind.
ENERGY AUDIT
A home energy audit, sometimes called a home energy assessment, is a great first step before you remodel in order to understand what you’re already working with. The audit, performed by a professional energy auditor, will gauge how much energy your home consumes. The results will point to ideas for making your home more energy efficient during your remodel - replacing old windows, insulation, light bulbs, furnaces, etc. Greater efficiency = greater monthly savings.
BUILDING MATERIALS
When it comes to the nuts and bolts of remodeling, the folks at the renown television program advise that you ask this question; how green do you want to be? “If your goal is simply an energy-efficient house, you can focus on Energy Star appliances, on-demand water heaters, high-efficiency insulation and windows, and solar technology,” they suggest. If you’re thinking green with regard to raw materials for walls, floors and more, you can also look into reclaimed lumber and recycled building materials. Habitat for Humanity is a great resource; their ReStore outlets offer a revolving range of reclaimed building materials.
APPLIANCE RATINGS
As previously mentioned, new, energy-efficient appliances aren’t only a smart way to go, but they’re dropping in price as more and more models and companies enter the green market. From washing machines to dishwashers to low-flow toilets, the options are endless. Not sure which models in the showroom are rated as Energy Star, or offer the best bang for your buck? Check this guide for the complete inventory.
“PASSIVE SOLAR”
Are you familiar with the term “passive solar?” If you’re planning a green remodel, you should be. This doesn’t refer to the installation of pricy solar panels; let’s face it, not all of us are able to plunk down that kind of cash. Instead, the US Department of Energy describes this strategy as one that “ takes advantage of a building’s site, climate, and materials to minimize energy use.” In passive solar designs, windows, walls, and floors are built with materials that are natural allies in your area for trapping and storing energy, without the use of mechanical or electrical assistance. Yeah, it sounds complicated, but when done properly, the initial cost can be extremely affordable. And, thanks to the wonders of the internet, there are a lot of resources to study up on.
RAIN GARDENS
Moving beyond simply greening-up your living space, consider an overhaul to your surroundings. One easy and popular way to do this is with a rain garden. Rain gardens are ace when it comes to trapping runoff, keeping more of it in the ground and less on your sidewalks or driveway. Plus, all that extra moisture acts as nature’s sprinkler system, cutting back on the amount of water needed to hydrate your lawn during summer months. There are great resources available all over the web, with step by step guides for creating your very own rain garden.
This is obviously a simple guide to kick-start the going green thought process. Are you contemplating an eco-friendly home remodel? Have you already done one? Any tips? Leave us a comment and let us know!
