This Friday, April 22, will mark the 40th anniversary of Earth Day. Even though I consider myself pretty “green,” I believe there is always room for improvement, so I’m constantly on the lookout for eco-friendly tips.
Matt Dirksen, a Green Advantage Certified project designer at Case Design/Remodeling, has some advice for homeowners wanting to incorporate “green” design into their next remodeling project. “If we’re doing this right, people are improving their health, saving money and there is less of an impact on the environment,” Dirksen says. “Those are the major benefits to going green.”
But you don’t have to sacrifice style to go green. The kitchen pictured above contains cork flooring, green-core cabinets, compact fluorescent lighting (CFL) and a skylight, all elements of green design. Below are Case’s top six green home design and remodeling tips for Earth Day 2011.
Preparation: Before beginning a project, perform an “existing analysis” of the home. This includes anything from gathering information on water, gas and electricity usage, to conducting an energy “audit” to pin-point daily habits such as leaving lights turned on when a room is not in use.
Lighting: Replace incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LED or CFL lighting. If possible, take advantage of both natural lighting and shading to reduce energy consumption from heating and cooling a home.
Materials: Opt for paints and finishes with low or zero-volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are harmful to the environment and one’s health. Choose designs that incorporate recycled materials, such as countertops made from recycled glass, or flooring made from repurposed wood.
Appliances: Swap in ENERGY STAR-qualified appliances that use less energy, such as refrigerators and dishwashers.
Plumbing: Consider low-flow shower heads/faucets and dual-flush toilets to conserve water.
Insulation and Ventilation: An energy-efficient home requires both proper insulation and ventilation. Seal windows, doors and pipes, but also ensure sufficient ventilation to allow water vapor to pass through and prevent molding.
For more information about Case Design/Remodeling, please visit casedesign.com.
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