As energy prices rise, the idea of implementing green materials and technologies in home renovation projects are becoming increasingly popular. Many savvy homeowners are keen to use materials that are sustainable, and energy efficient. If you are planning a home renovation, here are a few tips for going green.
Use sustainable materials such as bamboo, or wood from sustainably managed forests. Look for products with the FSC stamp on them. The Forest Stewardship Council, or FSC, has 10 key principles that encourage environmentally sound, socially responsible and economically viable management of the world’s forests. Products with their mark adhere to the principles and practices they espouse.
When picking paint, opt for low or zero volatile organic compounds instead of the more common paints. Low or zero VOC’s improve the air quality in your home. Generally, more expensive, low VOC paints are less toxic making them a better choice for the environment. They clean up much more easily with just soap and water, eliminating the need for toxic cleaning solutions. Despite the heftier price tag, these paints will last a lot longer, making the price well worth it.
The heating and cooling is the largest contributor to the rising cost of energy in a home. By updating your heating and cooling system along with installing an extra layer of insulation, you can significantly reduce your costs. Many of the top heating and cooling companies offer highly technologically advanced programmable systems to suit your lifestyle, further allowing for cost savings.
Other energy zappers include inefficient lighting, such as incandescent bulbs and fixtures. You can help the environment and save money by switching to compact fluorescent light bulbs, or try the new LED fixtures.
If possible, reuse the old kitchen cabinets. Hang them in a garage for extra storage or donate them to Habitat for Humanity where they will be recycled. By finding new uses for them, it saves space in the landfills, which is ultimately an environmentally friendly move.
Going green is good for the environment and your pocket at the end of the day. If you are serious about using green principles when planning your renovation, speak to your contractor about it. Contractors today are well versed in environmentally friendly building techniques.
Photo by sackerman519
This is a guest post by Fares of Vancouver General Contractors. Like VGC on Facebook
