Green Home Renovation

If you are planning a home remodeling project, now is a great time to incorporate green home renovation ideas. According to the EPA, going green improves indoor air quality and energy efficiency, reduces waste and pollution and conserves water and other resources. Creating a green home can be done in stages, starting with steps as simple as replacing your current light bulbs with CFL or LED bulbs.

Here are some green home renovation ideas to get you started:

Bathroom

Select tile made from recycled materials or natural clay and low-flow faucets, showerheads and toilets. Installing drywall that is moisture-resistant will help prevent mold. Reuse water collected from sinks and showers (gray water) to flush toilets by using a water recycling system such as the AQUS by WaterSaver Technologies.

Kitchen

Reface or refinish your cabinets using a low- or no- Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) finish or replace them with cabinets made of Forest Steward Certified (FSC) plywood and GreenGuard certified. Install eco-friendly countertops made of materials such as recycled glass, paper or tile, FSC Certified salvaged wood, stainless steel, or ceramic and porcelain tile. Select Energy Star qualified products and recycle old appliances.

Bedrooms and Living Room

All windows should be covered with blinds, drapery, shades or plantation shutters to prevent the escape of air conditioning and heating. Installing window treatments designed to enhance daylighting and provide UV protection for furnishings is a very effective method of green home renovation. Motorized curtains can be programmed to be opened during the winter and closed during the summer to keep the indoors comfortable. Choose natural fiber materials such as organic cotton, soy, hemp and bamboo and high-quality furniture made of FSC wood.

Windows and Exterior Doors

Replace weather-stripping and seal air leaks to increase energy efficiency. Select a door made with insulating material containing renewable or recycled components. Make use of natural solar lighting by installing skylights. Replace your current windows with low emissivity (Low-E) windows, which reduce heat transfer and block UV rays.

Roofing

A light-colored roof reflects light and reduces heat transfer into your home. Choose roofing materials made of eco-friendly or recycled components. Make sure your attic is sufficiently insulated to increase energy efficiency.

Lighting

Conserve energy by installing programmable lighting, motion sensors and dimmers. Using energy efficient bulbs such as CFL or LED bulbs instead of incandescent light bulbs is the simplest form of green home renovation.

Flooring

Green flooring materials include cork, tile, bamboo and American hardwoods. Solid surface flooring lasts longer than carpet, but if you want carpeting, choose GreenGuard certified synthetics or wool. Select long-lasting flooring that can be cleaned with non-toxic cleaners and repaired or refinished easily. Use low-emission, low-VOC finishes and glues. Buy flooring locally to reduce emissions.

Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning

Replace your old hot water heater with an electric, propane, gas, tankless or solar model that is more energy efficient. The best option for your home will depend on the size and the type and availability of fuel. Have your air ducts inspected and cleaned to remove pollutants and allergens. Maintain a constant indoor temperature by installing a programmable thermostat.

If you are planning a more extensive green home renovation project than just swapping light bulbs or window coverings, consult a Certified Green Professional or other green service provider to ensure you are meeting your eco-friendly goals.