Not only will these help you be more eco-friendly, but they can also save you time and money on your project.
Keep reading to learn how to make a home renovation project more environmentally friendly.
Shop Recycled Materials
During a renovation, the reconstruction and redecorating processes can use a heap of new materials. However, you can reuse and recycle older materials by using reclaimed goods.
Before you start any home structural project – such as replacing windows, tearing out a wall, add new flooring, rewiring the home, and any other major renovation project, run some financial numbers to determine whether the renovation is a smart investment.
The numbers include the estimated costs, home value assessment, financing costs, and other related calculations.
Review these cost-related issues to remodeling vs. buying a new home.
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| analyze the numbers | |
| estimate the cost of your project | |
| get your home value |
The 2nd step for planning your home structural project is deciding what you would like to do.
Will it be a –
- adding a new wall or tearing one out,
- re-doing your plumbing and or electrical wiring,
- changing up your flooring,
- upgrading the home with new windows and doors,
- installing new lighting,
- redesigning your structural layout,
- or something else.
Start collecting ideas by referencing our collection of home structural analysis: view directory
Step 3 is sketching your ideas on paper (or digitally) and developing the spec plan.
The spec plan determines what type of home structural project materials, items, and design considerations that will be needed. It will also contain the product specifications for each structural element.
You will use the spec plan and architectural design to bid the project out to a contractor.
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| developing the spec plan | |
| sketch remodeling plan | |
| design considerations |
Step 4 is finding and negotiating the contract with a structural contractor.
Give your home structural project ideas and specs to a contractor for review and bid analysis. Use the local network (aligned with HomeAdvisor) to find the right contractor for your project.
Review guides for contractor selection and negotiation.
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| search home contractors | |
| selecting your contractor checklist |
| contractor negotiations | |
| contractor evaluation form |
Step 5 is arranging financing once you selected the contractor and finalized the contract for your project.
Using the equity value in your home is one of the best financing option for home structural project. Start with a home equity line of credit or use the bank equity program.
Other options may include cash-out refinancing, personal savings, and/or financing from home improvement contractors.
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| financing options | |
| getting qualified for financing | |
| negotiate rates |
Step 6 is where the project begins.
It starts with setting up the work area, removing everything that needs to be replaced, installing necessary connections, putting in the final touches, etc.
It also means working with the contractor, managing the project, and getting the home remodeling project inspected before releasing any funds.
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| working with the contractor | |
| managing remodeling project |
| about a home project inspections | |
| find home inspector |
For example, reclaimed wood is a trendy and sustainable option for your floors, walls, countertops, and other installations throughout the home.
Additionally, consider visiting thrift stores for stylish vintage items when shopping for furniture and staging pieces.
Breathe New Life Into Old Surfaces
Instead of tearing out your home’s old cabinets, countertops, and other surfaces, give them a makeover instead. If you’re tired of the colors in your kitchen, a new coat of paint or stain on your cabinets could be all you need to fall in love with the space all over again.
This will save you money and help keep additional materials out of landfills. If you decide to tear out features, try recycling materials such as wood, metals, and stone.
Choose the Right Insulation
One of the reasons that spray foam insulation is better than fiberglass is its energy efficiency and sustainability. When less heat escapes your home, you don’t need to turn your HVAC unit on full blast to heat or cool your home thoroughly.
The spray foam material can also last a generation with the proper care and reapplication. Fiberglass and other insulation materials can collect moisture and mold, so you’ll need to swap them out regularly.
This results in more home materials going to landfills. Promote long-term energy efficiency and sustainability with smart insulation choices.
Prioritize Energy Efficiency
Choosing spray foam insulation isn’t the only way to promote energy efficiency when renovating a home. When remodeling a kitchen or entertainment space, invest in energy-efficient appliances and amenities such as refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, televisions, and more.
These appliances use lots of energy, but choosing energy-efficient models can help reduce a home’s carbon footprint.
If you’re looking for ways to make your home renovation project more sustainable, follow these tips. These practices can help you be more environmentally responsible and save money.
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Image credit: FILE #: 447116596 Low angle of indoor shot of construction By amedeoemaja
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