Using the following simple steps, you can transform your home into a safer, healthier living space through the use of environmentally conscious household products. A ‘green’ makeover of a home can improve your family’s quality of life while reducing your carbon footprint.
Wooden Furniture
Furniture made out of wood or other natural materials is a safer and sturdier alternative to non-renewable plastic. Insist on sustainably-harvested woods, finished in paints, oils or varnishes that are earth-conscious. This ensures all the processes are healthier for your home and the environment.
Eco-friendly lighting
Replace incandescent bulbs with LED energy-saving lights, and you’ll have you’re your bit to curb the amounts of carbon dioxide and heat emissions in the atmosphere. You will also have given Mother Earth a lot less waste to deal with as LED bulbs last much longer. Though they are pretty costly, their longevity makes them much more cost effective in the long run.
Windows that save energy
Who wouldn’t like ample sunshine and sizable openings for better fresh air circulation? You can achieve this by installing energy-saving windows (yes, they are a thing). Then sit back and watch them transform your home into a bright, eco-friendly space. Windows made out of fiberglass, vinyl or wood are your best ‘green’ bets, with window designs such as awnings, picture windows, double-hung windows, and casement windows being the most energy-efficient.
Decorative Plants
Decorate your interior and exterior with charming plant varieties such as chrysanthemum, snake plant, dracaena, Aloe Vera, bamboo palms, and peace lilies.
Wool-stuffed organic materials
Think about switching out the current carpets, mattresses, pillows, bedding, along with other similar furniture with products made from wool-stuffed organic materials. These products protect against bed and dust mites that cause asthma and allergies.
Ecologically friendly wall paint
When painting walls, pay attention to the paint’s contents, before being overawed by its aesthetic effect. Materials and chemicals contained in some paints, otherwise known as VOCs or volatile organic compounds can cause headaches, nausea, and dizziness. Insist on natural paints created from plant oils along with various other extracts that contain little to no VOCs.
Roofs featuring solar panels
Solar panels do not create waste or emissions and are therefore expected on any ‘green’ home. They instead create reusable and clean energy without combustion or excavation. Another home ‘greening’ solution includes geothermal energy products and wind turbines, which are cost-effective in the long run through advantageous subsidies and tax credits.
Find out more about the benefits of green building from the EPA. If you want your next home to be green, make sure your realtor knows just how off-the-grid you are looking.
About the Author
Debbie Caldwell
When you first meet Debbie Harris-Caldwell, you are immediately drawn to her charming Welsh accent and the twinkle in her eye. The well-traveled transplant from Wales is quick to set you at ease and time spent with her promises to be time well spent.
Debbie has been a real estate agent for 40 years and takes great pride in her customer service skills. "I make myself available to my customers when they need me, whether it's on a Sunday Evening or after their long day at work. I make my schedule fit theirs. I also keep my customers updated on everything happening with their listings or purchase, I am their conduit for information." She has built a business following her key principles of clear communication, attention to detail, client advocacy, and comprehensive knowledge of the area. Debbie comes to every new transaction with positive energy, determination, a strong understanding of the currents driving the market, and the expertise that comes from a lifetime of experience. She knows the importance of marketing and whether a home is for sale for $200,000 or for $2 million, she always has professional photography done and creates a listing presentation that best shows off her customer's home.