Sustainability is on everyone’s mind these days. We’re constantly looking for ways to reduce our carbon footprint.
If you’re considering making some eco-friendly home improvements, we’ve got you covered.
Here are 8 ideas to help get you started.
- Build A Metal Shed
Some home renovation projects are significantly larger than others, such as making an addition to your home. An eco-friendly alternative is to build a shed using a metal shed kit.
Steel structures require the least amount of maintenance while being able to withstand extreme weather conditions. They also reduce overall energy costs. So whether you’re using it as a workshop or an additional dwelling unit, you’ll be saving money in the long run.
- Upgrade Your Windows
Drafts that come through the window lead to roughly 30% of lost energy, leading to higher energy bills.
Upgrading your windows or even having them properly sealed can make a huge difference in how much energy you’re using.
- Try Solar Energy
Usually, when we think of solar energy we think of solar panels. But there are other home improvements you can make that include solar energy.
There are solar water heaters, attic fans, or even solar lights. Using solar energy can save upwards of 90% on your monthly electric bills and decrease the overall use of energy.
- Use Recycled or Repurpose Materials
Major construction typically requires expensive materials. But a recent trend has happened over the last few years to provide a more rustic aesthetic. Recycling materials is a great way to help the environment.
Reduce the number of trees being torn down by looking for used items to repurpose. Take old tires and reuse them for planters in your garden, for example.
- Touch Up The Walls With Eco-Friendly Paint
It’s true – there is such a thing as eco-friendly paint. Companies have turned green design into a more affordable solution for the average household. These types of paints increase indoor air quality by reducing toxins and chemicals.
You can find water or even milk-based paints. Make sure to look for the declare label which states exactly what’s in the product you’re purchasing. There is also a Greenguard Certification for paint that states the number of emissions a product exudes. Look for something with the gold certification.
- Shop Second-Hand
Sprucing up the home doesn’t mean you necessarily have to buy everything new. Shopping second-hand is a great way to save money, decrease your carbon footprint, and create an eco-friendly house.
Appliances, kitchen cabinets, and home decor items all require a mass amount of resources to produce. Shop at antique shops, thrift stores, or Facebook marketplace for used items that are still in good condition.
- Start A Compost Bin
According to National Geographic, there are over 5.25 trillion pieces of trash in the world’s oceans. The less trash we create, the more we can help our environment and the creatures who live in it. Starting a compost pile is a simple way to make an impact.
Composting is essentially a process where waste is broken down by worms or fungi. It can be reused as soil for your garden or other house plants.
- Plant A Vegetable And Herb Garden
Now that you’ve considered the idea of composting, you may want to learn about the benefits of planting your own vegetable and herb garden.
Not only does it add value to your home by improving curb appeal, but it’s a sustainable way to eat healthy. Indoor plants are also natural air purifiers, giving your family cleaner oxygen to breathe.
