10. Solar Panels
These are an old standby by now. They’ll provide renewable energy for your home and have the added benefit of reducing your energy bills while they reduce your carbon footprint. It’s a win-win!
9. Reclaimed Wood
You don’t have to sacrifice modern tastes while staying green. Reclaimed and repurposed wood keeps old building supplies out of the landfills while keeping your home looking beautiful.
8. Reface Cabinets
Rather than demolishing your kitchen to install all new cabinetry why not take the road that’s cheaper, easier, faster, and most importantly greener? Simply reface your cabinets to update your look without sacrificing the environment.
7. Paint with Low VOC Paint
You may think that there’s no way to paint without unleashing harsh chemicals into the wild to reek havoc on the environment. Low VOC paint is safe for the environment and even more importantly, safe for your family and pets.
6. Salvage and Antique Shops
Who said staying green had to be boring? Rather than buying all new furniture, which can be not only expensive but are often made of materials that end up being harmful to the environment, spend a Saturday checking out some antique shops for some one-of-a-kind pieces that will both impress your guests and help the environment in a small way.
5. Fiber Cement Siding
Let’s get technical. If you’re looking for a big eco-friendly home improvement project that will save you money and make your home more energy efficient, look no further than fiber cement siding. Comprised of cement, sand, and cellulose, this siding will last for decades and can be painted to match your existing colors.
4. Salvaged Hardware
Much like salvaged furniture or reclaimed wood for your interior, an eco-friendly home improvement with salvaged hardware can add character to your home, save you money, and save some space in the landfill.
3. Insulation
If there’s one way to save energy in your home that’s stood the test of time, it’s insulation. It’s nearly common sense at this point, a well-insulated house is an efficient one, and you can find options that aren’t as harsh as traditional insulation. Pay special attention to energy saps and plug up those drafty windows as well to make this one of the best eco-friendly home improvements for your money.
2. Terrazzo
You might not have heard of them, but terrazzo countertops are all the rage in green kitchens. Comprised of concrete and recycled glass, they’re dazzling to look at and come in pretty much any color imaginable. They’re also incredibly hard and can withstand any abuse you want to throw at them.
1. Rain Gardens
A nice summer project, a shallow rain garden redirects the runoff from your lawn into a flower bed rather than allowing it to collect the toxins on the road and contribute to river pollution. You’ll remember that on your next weekend fishing expedition.
With a little effort, you can transform your home, on the cheap, and have a stunning abode that’s as green as Kermit the Frog. With a couple of eco-friendly home improvements, you don’t have to sacrifice style for the environment.
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