It’s true. Building and renovation experts agree that using green materials will cost you about 20-30% more on upfront renovation costs. And the time it will take you to enjoy the cost benefits of green materials is a lot longer. But with the increasing number of businesses offering eco-friendly property renovation options, prices are now becoming competitive
So here are Zadel Property Education‘s top tips when it comes to eco-friendly renovation:
Don’t Demolish; Deconstruct
Before you start tearing down walls, walk around your property and think about the following:
• What can you possibly salvage?
• What you can you possibly re-use?
• What can you donate?
Look at every part of your home – from the light to water fixtures, to the kitchen and to the bathroom. You’ll surely find items or materials that are still usable. If in doubt, seek help from a trusted professional or experienced renovator.
Don’t Toss It; Donate It
If you’re really planning on changing your property’s furniture, fixtures, and some building materials, don’t toss them away. Goodwill and consignment shops are glad to accept salvageable items. Often, unwanted materials may be re-purposed. In this case, you not only help reduce waste; you also help give back to your community.
Don’t Buy New; Buy Pre-“Loved”
In relation to reclaiming and donating, you can also save hundreds (and even thousands) of dollars by opting for pre-owned (pre-loved!) items when renovating your home. It’s just like buying a car. Why settle for a brand new one when a pre-owned version of the same make and model can still take you where you want to go?
Don’t Replace; Re-face
Re-facing is like giving your furniture a new look. If your kitchen cabinets look tired, you can coat it with low VOC paint. Choose a paint colour that complements your cabinet’s knobs and handles. The same applies to your doors and your windows.
Be Insulation-Efficient
Think about cost and function. High-quality home insulation systems protect your property from the elements. But how is it eco-friendly? Well, during the summer season, your home’s insulation helps the internal temperature stay cool. During winter, it helps keep the house warm without adding extra running costs.
Be Energy-Efficient
Did you know that decreasing the air conditioner’s temperature by one degree can save you up to 10% on running costs? And did you know that using LED Lights can save you up to 80% on your lighting bills?
In Australia, it’s estimated that 40% of each household’s energy consumption comes from electrical appliances. So as you renovate your home and look for new, eco-friendly appliances, consider those with an energy-efficient rating of 5 stars.
Use Reclaimed Wood
Did you know that producing virgin wood flooring uses 13 times more cumulative energy than producing reclaimed wood? Did you also know that apart from wood flooring, reclaimed wood can also be used for walls and countertops?
Reclaimed wood possesses the strong quality like most virgin exotic woods. In the end, you’ll get a handsome finish where you use it, while taking care of the planet.
Use Solar Energy
When it comes to harnessing solar energy, you can integrate architectural components to your property. For example, skylights and floor-to-ceiling windows offer excellent sources of light.
These days, too, a growing number of residential consumers are now opting to install solar panels when they renovate their homes. That’s because the benefits, especially when it comes to the budget, are obvious.
And while there’s a lot of things that are yet to be improved when it comes to solar panel technology, you can be assured that you’re reducing your carbon footprint by not solely relying on artificial energy.
With the growing focus on re-greening the planet, everyone of us can make our own contributions. By adapting eco-friendly concepts when renovating, you not only create the dream home that you want and you not only save on costs; you’re also doing Mother Earth a huge favour.