It’s no secret that home renovation projects are popular. According to a September NerdWallet survey, about a third or 34% of homeowners who undertook home improvement projects report they did so because they stayed at home more due to social distancing measures related to the pandemic.
If you’re also planning to renovate and have hired whole home remodeling contractors, one smart idea is to go green. This boosts the value of your home, can lower utility bills and can shrink your carbon footprint. Here are five top tips for a green home renovation project.
Opt for Financing
The good news is the government, and some creditors, offer discounts as an incentive for anyone taking out a green loan. For instance, homeowners can get funding for making energy-efficient home improvements, such as solar panel installations or a geothermal heat pump. This makes a green home renovation more affordable.
Have Your Home Energy Audited
You’ll be surprised how much energy your home uses. Before getting started on your project, you can hire trained professionals to indicate areas that you need to focus on first. Usually, areas of concern include windows, HVAC systems, appliances, and insulation.
Do Your Research
When buying energy-efficient materials for your home renovation project, it’s important to realize that products with a green label aren’t always what they say. Do your research to confirm that they are authentic. Typically, there should be some kind of certification that confirms that it’s a genuine eco-friendly product. For instance, when upgrading your appliances, the rule of thumb is you should buy appliances with the appropriate energy-star rating.
Repurpose and Reuse
In keeping with the eco-friendly theme, you can also repurpose existing items in your home, such as furniture. Whole home remodeling contractors also know how to source recycled material. For instance, you can use reclaimed wood or recycled materials to build shelves, cupboards, and part of your flooring.
Find the Best Remodeling Contractor
The success of your green home renovation not only depends on the quality of materials you use, but it also hinges on research skills when looking at whole home remodeling contractors. Working with a reputable contractor that won’t cut corners ensures you can reap the full benefits of a more energy-efficient household. This translates into a better living space, lower utility bills, and a more environmentally-friendly existence.
