Home improvements can transform the use, feel and finish of any living space. When planning an improvement, homeowners would be wise to consider the environmental impact of their project. Making a home improvement eco friendly does not mean settling for third rate materials, nor need it cost the earth. Each renovation is an investment and green materials should be durable, time saving, and cost effective.
Eco Windows
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Unsurprisingly, much heat in the home escapes through windows and is wasted. Insulated, double or triple glazed windows can drastically reduce the amount of heat lost in this way. Other glass technologies take an innovative approach to saving time and reducing environmental impact. New self-cleaning glass has been developed which requires little to no cleaning. Dirt particles on the glass react to UV rays in sunlight and wash off the surface when it rains. Whilst modern technologies can prove expensive, installing double glazing significantly adds to the value of a property. This investment also provides the benefit of reduced heating costs, especially during the winter months.
Insulation
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The simplest way to reduce heating bills and create a warmer home is to ensure the building is properly insulated. The attic space in particular (since warm air rises) should be coated with at least 225mm of insulation. For those with a little experience and safety know-how, insulating is easy to install. Additional tools and fittings, such as insulation saws, pins and anchors, are available at many DIY stores and online as well for site lighting at Tool-Net.co.uk. Environmentally friendly materials, including wool, flax and recycled newspaper, can be used. Alternatively, some brands of the more commonly used fibreglass are now made from recycled glass.
Grass Roofing
An option for the more adventurous designer is grass roofing, which can be planted on flat roofs and adds an interesting quality to the exterior of a property. Commonly used in remote building projects to ease the structure into the natural surroundings, grass roofing holds many additional benefits. As well as absorbing water and encouraging wildlife to prosper, the grass increases the durability of the roof below and acts as a natural form of insulation.
Local Products
A truly eco friendly renovation project makes use of locally sourced materials. This means reduced transport costs and support for local businesses. It can also add a relevant focal point to an interior or make the exterior of a property more in keeping with its surroundings.
Sustainable Flooring
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Choosing an eco friendly flooring provider means checking the company’s carbon footprint. But now, more than ever, the flooring material is also in question. Sustainable alternatives are on the market, including cork and bamboo, which grows much quicker than wooden equivalents. If working with new products on a flooring project, hiring experienced fitters might be worthwhile. For those who don’t know their jump start from their Air Belt Sander, a DIY approach is best left to the minor projects.
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