{"id":1602,"date":"2021-12-06T16:27:06","date_gmt":"2021-12-06T16:27:06","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/65.21.7.236\/s3da-design\/2021\/12\/06\/6-29\/"},"modified":"2021-12-06T16:27:06","modified_gmt":"2021-12-06T16:27:06","slug":"6-29","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/65.21.7.236\/s3da-design\/6-29\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Prioritize Sustainability in Your Home Renovation"},"content":{"rendered":"

Renovations can transform your home. They can increase the functionality and aesthetic appeal of the room. During the renovation, it is the perfect time to consider how you\u2019re impacting the environment. Using eco-friendly materials<\/a> and energy-efficient appliances can decrease your carbon footprint. Here are some other ways to prioritize sustainability in your home renovation projects.<\/span><\/p>\n

1. Increase Your Home\u2019s Energy Efficiency<\/b><\/h2>\n

The first step before renovating is to figure out where you lose the most energy. A home energy audit is an excellent place to start. It\u2019s an assessment of your home\u2019s current energy consumption.<\/span><\/p>\n

During the inspection, the auditor will examine exterior components like your windows and walls. They may also check out your furnace and water heater. These audits can <\/span>take between 30 minutes<\/span><\/a> and four hours. Afterward, the auditor will give you a list of solutions and actionable steps to take. Consider these when making your home upgrades.<\/span><\/p>\n

Also, add insulation, seal windows and doors, and buy energy-efficient appliances. You also want to upgrade your casements. Using double-glazed windows offers better energy efficiency and protection. These changes can make your home more comfortable and lower your energy bills.<\/span><\/p>\n

2.\u00a0 Enhance the Quality of Your Indoor Air<\/b><\/h2>\n

Poor indoor air quality can lead to respiratory issues. Some air pollutants can come from flooring and paints. Carpets can trap these pollutants, like dust and mold spores. The <\/span>chemicals used in rugs<\/span><\/a> can have volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These can cause eye irritation and difficulty breathing.<\/span><\/p>\n

So, consider using hard floor surfaces for most of your rooms, such as hardwood or ceramic tile. If you want to use carpets in the bedroom, look for ones with natural fibers. In addition, when painting, look for brands that have zero VOCs.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. Install Water-Conserving Fixtures<\/b><\/h2>\n

You use <\/span>about 80-100 gallons of water<\/span><\/a> per day. Most of this comes from flushing toilets and taking showers. To help conserve water, install low-flow plumbing fixtures. You could end up saving <\/span>about 2,900 gallons of water<\/span><\/a> every year by adding a low-flow showerhead. Also, upgrade to a tankless water heater and high-efficiency toilets and dishwashers.<\/span><\/p>\n

In addition to your fixtures, you can conserve water in your landscaping. Place a drip irrigation system to water your garden. If you like to entertain, make some improvements to your outdoor space. Consider adding some lights, a hammock, or a firepit.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Use Eco-Friendly Materials<\/b><\/h2>\n

One easy way to include sustainability in your home renovation is through material choices. Before the renovation, consider how you can use more natural materials. Your flooring is one place you can incorporate environmentally friendly options. Cork or bamboo are both excellent flooring choices that provide your home with a unique style. Cork <\/span>is also fire-retardant<\/span><\/a> and easy to maintain.<\/span><\/p>\n

Here are some more eco-friendly flooring options:<\/span><\/p>\n