Spring is a special time of year. It’s when the world turns green again, and everything appears to rejuvenate. Flowers come into bloom, and birds fly home. It is also a great time of year to complete a home remodel.
However, remodeling, and home construction in general, often comes at a cost. These projects can have a negative impact on the environment. The amount of waste and natural resources used can be a long-term contributing factor to shrinking resource reserves.
In the season of growth and rejuvenation, is this really something you want to do? In order to reduce the ecological footprint of your home remodel, there are a few steps you can take. Some of these steps are listed here.
Recycle
Recycling doesn’t just have its benefits when it comes to plastic and paper. Recycling construction materials can save you a lot of money in material cost, as well as being better for the environment. Wood is likely the easiest building material to find recycled. Some of these recycled pieces may be in poor shape, but you will certainly find high-quality pieces if you look hard enough.
Measure Twice, Cut Once
This sage piece of advise holds true if you are looking to be eco-friendly in your remodel. This spring, try only getting the materials that you expressly need for the remodel. Avoiding mistakes will keep you from wasting your building supplies. Not only is this saving you money, it’s helping the environment.
Renewable Resources
One of the best ways to ensure that your remodel doesn’t harm the environment is by using renewable resources in your project. Using fast-growing wood, like bamboo and many softwood species, instead of hardwoods like oak goes a long way in making the remodel eco-friendly.
Open Floor Plans
If you are considering a large remodel which involves planning an entire room revamp or addition, try an open floor plan. Open floor plans are attractive to its occupants, and really adds space to a home. Additionally, cutting down on the walls and doors you include helps you save on material.
Remodeling can be a costly endeavor, but cutting down on the material you use can be better for your wallet and the environment.