Renovating Green
If you are thinking of renovating your home, there are many ideas to consider that can contribute to a more eco-friendly way of living. Some may cost a bit more initially, but they will certainly save you lots down the line.
Insulation
We all know how important the right kind of insulation is for your home. Once an enormous danger to the environment, current insulation methods have changed and are now safe and healthy to use for our homes and the planet. Consider using insulation components made of soy-based material, which is mildew and mold resistant. A non-petroleum based product that is also free of formaldehyde, this type of insulation comes as a foam or in rigid form. Another option is to use insulation made of recycled denim.
Paint
There are now VOC -free (volatile organic compound) organic paints available in the marketplace that are free of damaging toxins. Coming in a wide variety of colors, you can now be assured that no matter what shade you choose, you can always make it “green.”
Reclaimed and Recycled
This can apply to glass countertops, fixtures, and furniture. Look for creative companies with innovative designs that do not require the use of new materials.
Flooring
A long-time source of pollution, flooring now can be installed without adding to your carbon footprint. Use recycled floorboards, VOC-free stone flooring, carpets made from recycled fiber, or sustainable woods that are harvested responsibly.
Skylights
New innovations in skylighting fixtures are now available. The new technology creates structures that look like huge telescopes with glass ends. Channeling sunlight through the tube, the light emerges in a manner that illuminates an entire room. Called “daylighting,” the tube eliminates the need to use electrical lighting during daylight hours. At night, it can be illuminated by a compact florescent bulb, which create a wide spectrum light while using up less energy.
-Michele Kadison
