Green DIY Home Projects
Keep it Green and Get the Green
Recent events may have inspired you to consider ways to make a difference, such as using reusable bags at home, reducing your carbon footprint, and reducing single-use plastics in your household. Modern technology makes it more feasible than ever before to update your home and protect the environment at the same time.
Aim for the 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle).
In order to create environmentally friendly homes, we should repurpose the slogan of the 1990s that encouraged recycling. The three major ways in which reusing what you already have reduces your project’s environmental impact are: first, by reducing old materials that end up in landfills, second, by minimizing dust produced by demolition, and third, by reducing the need for new products, which are often made from less-than-ideal materials containing chemicals that are harmful to the environment (and to you!).
Using reclaimed materials and giving your home a facelift is a much better use of your time and money when you’re preparing your home for sale.
You can reuse materials by refacing and painting existing bathroom vanities, resurfacing old bathroom tiles, and reusing existing hardwoods instead of replacing them.
Materials that are sustainable should be prioritized
It’s possible to find home improvement materials that are more environmentally friendly than others if reusing materials isn’t an option. Its quick growth and moisture-resistant properties make bamboo one of the best flooring options.
Another way to keep the environment in mind when doing DIY projects is by choosing safe materials. In any manufacturing facility, there is the potential for off-gassing to occur with new materials (paint, cabinets, carpets, windows). As new products are introduced into our homes over time, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are released into the air. Doesn’t it sound gross?
It’s important to research formaldehyde-free and eco-friendly materials before you buy to avoid off-gassing. In addition to lowering environmental impact, your family will benefit from better air quality and lower environmental impact if you research the best, most sustainable materials for your home. In addition, many paint brands already come in VOC-free or low-VOC versions.
Landscaping that is eco-friendly
A landscaping project can boost curb appeal and provide a solid return on investment thanks to its low environmental impact. Added curb appeal increases the chances of a buyer making an offer on your home by giving them a good first impression.
Planting more flowers for bees and other pollinators to add color to your home’s exterior, reducing the use of pesticides and other chemicals to kill weeds, limiting water use by sprinkler systems, and using solar-powered landscape lighting instead of electric lights are among eco-friendly landscaping projects.
Replace outdated appliances
Appliances that are old and outdated are an eyesore, and maintaining or using them can be a hassle. The fact that new appliances use less water and energy than previous models makes them more sustainable, even though you may be conflicted about adding them to landfills.
For example, a new washing machine uses 25% less energy and 75% less water than a 20-year-old appliance. According to data from the EPA, water consumption in a home can be reduced by 20% by switching to more efficient models.
Further incentives include rebates and discounts for homeowners who choose eco-friendly appliances.
Replacement of doors
In addition to boosting curb appeal and increasing energy efficiency, door replacements provide some of the best returns on investment of any home improvement. Recoupage rates for garage door replacements were 94.5% and for entry doors were nearly 70%, according to Remodeling magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report.
Homeowners can improve their spaces and reduce their environmental impact by making a few smart choices.