What exactly is Green Home Remodeling?

Green home remodeling is just like regular remodeling, but your home improvements are made with the environment in mind. Green remodeling uses environmentally conscious building materials, energy efficient appliances and eco-friendly furnishings. Green remodeling also pushes for sustainability. Simply put, sustainability is about having enough resources for ourselves and future generations. The Earth is the only home we have, so it’s important that we protect its resources for everybody. All of these things make your remodeling project healthier for your family and planet.

Why does it matter?

Being environmentally conscious is everybody’s responsibility. Your home improvement project is an opportunity to take a step in the right direction. Depending on your project, your green remodel could reduce greenhouse gasses, save water, cut down on waste or even protect forests and wildlife.

What’s the cost?

Green materials and appliances can be more expensive upfront than standard products. However, these products use less energy or utilize renewable energy which saves you money every month on utility bills. Green products are often more durable than their traditional competitors. This means you’ll spend less money on repairs or replacements. Earth-friendly products, like lead-free, low VOC paints and DEHB- free light fixtures can also keep your family safer. Generally these products contain fewer harmful chemicals that can trigger allergic reactions, asthma and other conditions, making them worth the cost.

How does it look?

Green remodels look just like a typical remodel. You can be creative as you want to be with the space. Green remodels also last just as long as regular projects, sometimes longer.

What are some different ways to go green with my project?

There are dozens of ways to make your home remodel greener! It can be as easy as choosing a low VOC paint for the walls, or switching to fluorescent or LED lights. For bigger projects, going green starts with the building materials. For projects requiring new windows, energy efficient windows can have a big impact on your wallet and the environment. Energy efficient windows are often double or triple paned and insulate your home much better than standard products. Look for an ENERGY STAR® rating before you make your selection. Another way to make your remodel greener is to use salvaged materials. Using salvaged products saves reusable materials from ending up in landfills. It also eliminates waste associated with buying brand new things. Salvaged items can also give your homes a lot of character. For Example, companies are selling wood floor planks from everywhere from abandoned temples to old breweries. One of the best green remodeling investments you can make is in a metal roof. Metal roofs last three times as long as traditional asphalt roofs. When an asphalt roof is replaced, the shingles end up in landfills. It’s estimated that almost 11 billion shingles are discarded each year. That is a lot of waste. Metal roofs are easily recycled and need to be replaced much less often.

Hopefully this article has encouraged you to go green for your next home remodeling project. You can learn more about home remodeling at Erie Construction.