Whether you’re renovating an older property that’s in dire need of updates or simply trying to make your new-build a little more eco-friendly, there are plenty of ways you can make sustainable choices when it comes to undertaking home renovations.
1. Insulation
Insulating your home is one of the single most important things that you can do to reduce your impact on the planet. Proper insulation can also drastically lower your energy bills, which is great news for households struggling in the cost of living crisis.
The type of insulation your home needs will depend on the property itself, and whether or not you have an existing insulation. The options for insulating your home include:
- Cavity wall insulation
- Solid wall insulation
- Floor insulation
- Loft insulation
- Draught-proofing
2. Windows
A significant amount of heat from your home is lost through windows, particularly if you have single-glazing, poorly fitted or unsealed windows. Upgrading the windows in your home as part of your renovation project can be costly but the returns on your investment can be significant as it will lower your energy requirements and your energy bills.
3. Furniture
It’s essential that you choose furniture that’s built to last. Poorly designed or cheaply-made furniture will need upgrading or replacing quicker, and will only end up in a landfill when it becomes unfit for purpose.
Opting for secondhand, recycled or repurposed furniture when renovating your home reduces the demand for new materials, which helps prevent deforestation and lessens the pressure on the planet’s resources. Choosing high-quality, future-proof pieces also means your furniture can adapt as your needs change over time. An expanding kitchen table, for example, means you won’t need to upgrade to a larger dining table as your family grows and fitted wardrobes that perfectly fit your home make the most of all the space on offer, reducing wasted space and removing the need to replace your storage in the future.
4. Water-Saving Taps
Climate change means the world’s water supply is more unpredictable than it has been in the past, and we all need to do our bit and conserve water where we can. Installing water-saving taps and showers as part of your home renovations is a great way to do this.
Aerating taps are a practical and budget-friendly option. These combine air with water, allowing you to use less water without feeling a noticeable difference. You should also opt for a low-flow showerhead and a low-flow toilet that uses less water every time you flush.
5. LED Lighting
Traditional light bulbs are extremely inefficient. It’s estimated that only around 10% of the electricity a regular bulb uses is actually converted into light and the rest is wasted as heat, which is bad for both the planet and your wallet! Swapping to LED lights as part of your home renovations will make your home more sustainable and eco-friendly and also save you money on electricity.
