Guest Blog Post by Tom Edathikunnel. Click here to visit his blog
Renovating your home may seem like an overwhelming and
expensive endeavor but in reality, utilizing a variety of these eco-friendly
tips can save you time, money, and can help reduce waste. Whether you are
looking to completely redesign your home, or just perk up a room or two, try a
few of these environmentally sound methods.
1. Buy Reclaimed
Materials. Do not fall into the pressure of having the newest appliances or
materials. Utilizing reclaimed materials are in some instances better, more
affordable, and reduce waste. Shopping at reclaim centers, such as the Habitat for Humanity of Greater L.A. ReStore, can be
hugely beneficial to those looking to renovate while on a budget. Using
reclaimed wood around your kitchen or yard can add the perfect charm and
elegance without the marked-up price.
2. Deconstruct Rather
Than Demolish. If you are planning to overhaul your home, add a new room,
or tear down a wall, see what you can salvage and reuse first. This is not only
environmentally friendly, but can save you hundreds of dollars in materials.
Light fixtures, flooring, tiles, bricks cabinets, and even wood can be reused
in a myriad of ways around your home.
3. Donate Unwanted
and Unused Material. This goes hand in hand with the first tip. If you
can’t use the materials you save, don’t just throw it away. Habitat for
Humanity’s ReStores are happy to take unused construction material as well as
appliances. Not only do they accept all unwanted material but donations are
sold and proceeds go toward building new homes in underserved areas. Thus,
donating your unused material can be greatly beneficial to your community. All
donations are tax-deductible. To locate a ReStore near you, simply put in your
zip code on Habitat’s home page. www.Habitat.org
4. Think Efficiently.
The advantages of modern renovations are the new advances in energy efficient
appliances and light bulbs. In the past large appliances, like refrigerators,
dishwashers, and ovens, wasted a lot of electricity and generated less energy.
Modern day appliances can do the same functions better with less power, saving
you a lot of money in the long run.
5. Insulate. Much
like tip four, creating an energy efficient home can save you a lot of money in
heating and energy bills. When renovating, insulate your home with high quality
insulation. The better insulated your home is, the better it will retain heat
in the winter and the cooler it will be in the summer. This culminates to a
more moderate thermostat and of course, a lower energy bill.
Choosing to renovate and redesign your home with
eco-friendly methods not only save you money, but are also better for the
planet and your community. Taking these steps into consideration can
compartmentalize the ambiguity and make your renovations simple and stress
free. To find out more about The Habitat for Humanity ReStore or to browse for
a location in your area, visit the ReStore website.
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Labels: diy, habitat for humanity of greater L.A., home renovations, ReStore, ReStore Gardena, restore norwalk, service magic, sustainability