Are you looking for environmentally conscious ways to upgrade your home? If you want ideas for eco-friendly remodeling, here are some to get you started.
Reclaimed materials
Buying reclaimed materials is a cheaper and more sustainable way to get items to renovate your home. According to experts, buyers could save an average of two-thirds off retail prices when they shop this way.
Reclaimed materials come from donations and deconstructed homes and buildings. Items may be used or new, and can range from sinks and cabinets to tiles, light fixtures and more.
Where are the best places to shop for these bargains? Some salvage stores, such as Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore, are great places to go, but you can also find what you want online through Craigslist or similar sites. It takes time, patience and willingness to look for items since you might not find everything you need in one store visit or day of searching.
Energy-efficient additions or appliances
There are many options when it comes to more efficient additions or appliances. Some of the best energy- and money-saving ones help you better control the temperature within your home. For example, you could get:
- a programmable thermostat so you can get the temperature in your house on a schedule – for instance, a lower temperature when you’re not at home or are asleep;
- double-paned windows to keep it warm inside when it’s cold outside, or cool inside when it’s hot outdoors;
- a tankless water heater. It heats only the water you need, so energy isn’t wasted on water not used.
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