Remodeling Contractors Resource Guide

Eco-Friendly Remodeling

Today, many people are making greener, more environmentally conscious choices because they are concerned about the environmental and health-related issues, as well as saving money. How you choose to remodel your home or business today can have an impact on tomorrow. Eco-friendly remodeling involves the simple principles of reduce, reuse and recycle. There are more green choices than ever before to make your remodeling project simple and sustainable.

What You Need To Know

• It doesn’t have to be all or nothing — even a few green ideas incorporated into your remodeling plans can save energy and the environment.
• You may choose from numerous eco-friendly building products in your remodeling project. Look for non-toxic paint, carpet and interior finish and purchase recycled lumber when you can. Avoid all products that do not biodegrade and those that pollute our environment.
• When purchasing appliances for your green remodel, look for products with an Energy Star rating. These products are government-certified; many of them — including energy-efficent water heaters and air conditioning systems — are eligible for a federal tax credit.

Steps

1. Reuse whatever you possibly can and keep it simple. There are often alternatives to tearing something out and replacing it. Bathtubs can be refinished, and cabinets can be refaced. Sometimes, the most dramatic face lifts involve some simple slipcovers, rugs and a coat of paint or stain.
2. Choose your materials wisely. Consider the entire life cycle of any product you’re considering from flooring to ceiling tiles. Ask yourself what it was made from, how long it will last, and what you will do with it when you’re done. Ideally, you will buy sturdy items made from recycled or sustainable materials and be able to recycle them when they are no longer useful.
3. Make healthy choices. Chemicals from common items, such as formaldehyde from carpet and pressed wood furniture, leach into our air and our environment from the moment they are manufactured. Instead, consider linoleum or formaldehyde-free laminate flooring and furniture made from untreated hardwoods. Use low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) or VOC-free paints and choose wood items with water based, low-VOC finishes.
4. Consider energy efficiency. Choose the most energy-efficient appliances, windows, lighting and more by looking for the Energy Star label, which means it meets or exceeds government and industry standards for energy efficiency. Include insulation in major remodeling projects and weatherstripping in minor ones.
5. Recycle or donate any used materials. Many charities will arrange pickup if you have a substantial number of usable items to get rid of. If you can’t find a local charity, try Freecycle or Craigslist to find someone locally who can use your items.

Tips and Warnings

• Save water with low-flow shower heads and faucets with aerators.
• Don’t get hung up on the initial cost of your remodel. Take into account energy savings and the cost of having to replace cheaper items sooner.
• Using green technology in your remodeling project will reduce the demand for toxic materials that pollute our earth.
• Eco-friendly remodeling does not mean using “green” wood that is not properly kiln dried.
• Remember that recycling an old product is just as good — if not better than — buying a new one made of sustainable materials.