If you’re like a lot of people, you’re either thinking about or have decided to do some home remodeling. A home remodeling project is the perfect solution when the housing market is down. It will not only improve your quality of life, but it will increase your house’s value.
Want some ways to make your house even more desirable to buyers? Do some green remodeling projects. Creating eco friendly houses is just what many will be looking for when the market recovers.
Here are 5 projects to make an Eco Friendly House
1. Reclaimed Wood Flooring — Thinking about tearing up your carpets and going with an exposed wood floor? Wood is great for eco friendly houses, but consider reclaimed wood flooring. That is, flooring that comes from other buildings and houses. There are several companies that specialize in connecting homeowners to reclaimed wood flooring.
2. EnergyStar appliances and electronics — When you’re looking at appliances like new dishwashers and refrigerators and fixtures such as shower heads and faucets look for the EnergyStar certification. Energy efficient appliances can save water and money, along with energy. Perfect for all eco friendly houses.
3. Local Flora — Want some plants but don’t have a green thumb? Try supplementing your house with local flora. Local plants will require less care and are more likely to flourish. And they’ll save on water since they are used to your area’s climate.
4. Non-toxic paint finishes — When painting walls or wood, ensure that the paint won’t poison you or the environment. Some paints and finishes can still emit what are known as volatile organic compounds (VOC) even years after they’re applied. For eco friendly houses, find one of the several paints now sold as low-VOC
5. Buy Local — Buying local isn’t just for food. Think about finding local stone, local wood and other materials for your green remodeling project. Since they won’t be transported over long distances, they’ll leave a smaller carbon footprint. You’ll also be investing in your local economy, along with creating eco friendly houses.
