Green home remodeling was a popular concept in the 1970′s when energy prices were a premium. The concept is making a comeback today, although the reasons are slightly different.
Today’s homeowner is turning to green remodeling to lower energy bills as well as to ensure that their home is made from durable, and safe materials. Green materials like bamboo flooring are eco-friendly too.
Costs for green home remodeling materials are slightly higher than traditional materials. As green materials become more popular, the cost of the materials should decrease.
Green Remodeling Projects That Can Help You Sell Your House
Using green materials for your remodeling project can actually help you to sell your house. Not only will green materials give your home a competitive edge on the market, but the eco-friendly aspect may actually decrease home energy bills. Of course, this depends upon the type of remodeling project that you complete.
Why Remodel Your Home?
There are a number of reasons to remodel your home. These include maintaining your home, enhancing the outside of your home, or a concept called “neighborhood norm”. The latter is important if you want to sell your home.
If you want to sell your home, it is wise to take a look at features of homes that have sold in your neighborhood. Let’s imagine that you own a home with 3 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms. If all of the homes that have sold in your area have at least 2 baths, you may need to do some upgrades on your home.
If you do choose to add a half a bath and do other upgrades to your home, you may want to consider using green materials. By doing so, you may give your home the competitive edge it needs to sell quickly.
Choose Green Materials For Your Home
When purchasing materials for your remodeling project, you should choose eco-friendly materials if possible. Creative homeowners may even be able to re-use materials that they have for improvement projects. For example, using old bricks from a wall to create an attractive front walkway is very eco-friendly. This will also add to the curb appeal of your home.
Hiring a Green Contractor
If you can provide your own labor, you will save money on your home improvement costs. If you must hire a contractor, you should consider hiring a Green Certified Professional (GCP) to complete your projects.
A GCP is different than other contractors in that he or she has taken courses in green home remodeling. He or she is also experienced as a home improvement contractor.
Where To Find Green Remodeling Supplies
You can special order green remodeling materials or you may be able to find them locally. One of the best places to look for supplies is your local hardware store. Not only will you be purchasing eco-friendly materials, but you will help the local economy as well.
Some urban areas have a “Green Depot” store where customers can find eco-friendly materials for their home improvement projects.
If your area does not have such a store, you may consider shopping at the local salvage yard. You will be surprised what materials you can find that are still in good condition. Salvage yards are the perfect place to find antique woodwork or other embellishments at a very good price.
By using these tips, you should be able to start a green home remodeling project that is sure to impress prospective buyers.
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