by Jennifer Riley Simone, Case Design/Remodeling Indy
You don’t have to do a full-scale remodeling project to start increasing the eco-friendliness of your home. Home ownership means regularly replacing materials over time, whether or not we choose to remodel our living spaces. Each time you do a home improvement project it’s an opportunity to make your home a little greener. These 10 tips are a mix of ideas for creating a more sustainable home immediately and over the years as you update.
1. Use low-VOC paints and stains. Volatile organic compounds (VOC) are the toxic chemicals in paints, stains, and other finishing products, which slowly release toxins into the air after application. Low-VOC products have little to no toxins and are much safer for our health. Next time you repaint a space in your home, choose a low-VOC alternative or ask your home remodeling services provider to do the same.
2. Install insulating window shades. High-quality window shades and blinds come in dozens of different styles and can make a big difference in your energy bills. In summer, they keep the heat out. In winter, they allow solar energy to heat your home on sunny days while trapping the warm air indoors over night.
Image courtesy of Case Design and Remodeling Indy
