Going Green: Remodeling Choices That Help the Environment and Your Wallet

"Green," "eco-friendly" and "sustainable" are words we hear more and more, including in home construction. As we learn how much our daily lives affect the environment, many homeowners are looking for practical ways to do their part.

The good news is that your home is a great place to start. If you're planning a remodel, these environmentally friendly upgrades can shrink your carbon footprint and lower your monthly bills at the same time.

1. Water-Efficient Toilets

Toilets are one of the biggest water users in the home. High-efficiency models, like those earning the EPA's WaterSense label, use at least 20 percent less water per flush than standard models. For a typical family, that can mean thousands of gallons saved each year and a noticeably lower water and sewer bill. It's a win-win.

2. High-Efficiency Wall Insulation

Poorly installed or inadequate insulation leads to heat loss, higher heating and cooling costs and uncomfortable rooms. Upgrading to high-efficiency insulation during a remodel, when walls are already open, creates well-sealed spaces that take far less energy to heat and cool. That means lower power bills and less energy use overall.

3. Direct Vent Fireplaces

Traditional open fireplaces are lovely, but they often let warm, conditioned air escape up the chimney. Direct vent fireplaces burn natural gas or propane like other gas units, but they are sealed off from the room by glass and draw combustion air from outside. As a result, they turn most of their fuel into usable heat and prevent significant heat loss. Get more ideas in our post on renovating your fireplace.

4. Energy-Efficient Windows

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heat gain and loss through windows account for a large share of residential heating and cooling energy use. Energy-efficient windows with low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings reflect heat and block much of the sun's UV rays, and double or triple panes add even more insulation. The result is a home that stays warmer in winter and cooler in summer, with savings all year.

Build Green Into Your Remodel

If you're planning a renovation, ask your design-build team about eco-friendly, energy-efficient materials and products. Our team can help you identify where these upgrades will make the biggest impact. For more ideas, read Remodeling: A Sustainable Approach and our post on green home design.

Ready to plan a greener home? Call Tracy Tesmer Design and Remodeling at 678-450-1700 or contact us today.