There is a strong focus on eco-friendly practices currently in construction. People expect projects to be eco-friendly regardless of what their trajectory is. Everything from the initial planning process to the materials used, and the final result is gearing more and more towards sustainable functions, and it will only continue to grow in the future. Therefore, if you are currently considering a renovation, here are some tips for giving it an eco-focus.
Solar Panels
Renewable energy is an alternative to traditional fuel sources and can be used for powering or heating a home. Solar panels are one of the most accessible forms of renewable energy for homeowners. They don’t emit greenhouse gases, they are easy to install, and they produce significantly greener energy than fossil fuel systems. They also have an immediate impact and begin working as soon as all the parts are in place. The average cost of installing solar panels varies from company to company, but general pricing begins upwards of £2000 and can be factored into the renovation budget.
A Heat Recovery System
Heat recovery systems are a way of improving air quality, regulating energy use, and making properties generally more efficient at retaining and regulating temperature. Professional companies focus on delivering these services countrywide and installing these systems into properties. So, if you are researching methods for regulating energy use during a house build or renovation, this is a viable solution.
Work with Your Suppliers
Keeping everyone on the same path is essential to any building project, but particularly so when things need to be done in a specific way. Ensuring to plan properly with suppliers, architects, and construction workers can enable a project to fulfil its potential and avoid any mishaps along the way.
Triple Gazing
Double glazing is also acceptable, but if the budget allows, triple glazing is the best option to make everything as eco-supportive as possible. The thick glass and intricate detailing in professional triple glazing installation allow for a more airtight home which then enables a higher ability to regulate the temperature and internal climate factors.
Biomass Boilers
Biomass boilers convert waste into energy. Though they have a slight carbon cost, they are generally regarded as extremely efficient sources of fuel. They have a dual purpose in a domestic setting in that they are a source of heat, and also provide a way to sustainably get rid of household waste. The installation cost will be upwards of £1000 because they require professional input to be properly functional.
LED Bulbs
LED bulbs as opposed to incandescent lighting are the better option. Old style bulbs waste most of the energy they emit as heat instead of light. They are in constant need of replacement, break more, and are generally wasteful assets. LED bulbs are brighter and have cleaner energy while also managing to last longer too. Anything that improves the sustainability factor of a room is a bonus, and as an extra perk, this type of lighting will also save you money on your bills and bulb purchases.
Protect Your Outdoor Space
Ensure that habitats are protected, and wildlife is encouraged in any outdoor space. It is understandable for people to want their garden to be neat, tidy and a space to enjoy. Yet what many don’t realize is that the two things can co-exist peacefully. You can carve out areas for rewilding while maintaining structure for recreational purposes. Bee boxes, bird boxes, and planting vegetables and flowers, are all easy things anyone can do to add a little biodiversity back into their immediate environment.
Smart Home Technology
Smart meters are AI technology that controls lock systems, heating, and electricity use within the home. They are easy to install, a mainstream purchase, and a decent method for managing energy use in the home. These devices connect to your smartphone or tablet and can be controlled entirely remotely. Settings that factor in heating schedules enable you to stay on top of energy use and gain a deeper understanding of the wider scope of use in the home.
Use Sustainable Materials
During any construction venture, the choice of material can balance the scales when it comes to your carbon score and further environmental impact. Consider sticking to recycled building materials like steel and timber, and steer clear of concrete wherever possible. There are plenty of alternative choices that do not cause serious pollution levels globally and will be as reliable in your home.
Install Insulation
Every home should have insulation if it is trying to be eco-friendly. Proper insulation can be a DIY task or brought in by an external company, but it has to be made from the correct composites to achieve maximum efficiency. Renovation periods are the perfect opportunity to add this low-key, high impact factor into your home. The key benefits are a greater ability to regulate internal temperatures, which is especially useful during the colder seasons in terms of using less energy to heat the house. Further to this, the correct insulation also combats the property becoming too hot in the warm seasons.
Minimize Waste
Waste from building projects like renovations and new builds is responsible for a large amount of pollution globally. By reducing it, people can better protect the environment. Here are some top tips for reducing waste during renovation works.
- Only use what you need. Careful planning before a project begins factors in material quantity and cost. It is better to have less and to source more if needed than to have a surplus that ultimately goes to waste.
- Source sustainable building materials like recycled components that can be further recycled if unneeded.
- Make sure recycling is taken into consideration. Things that can be recycled should be in order to reduce waste.
- Try to get everyone involved. Contractors need to be on the same page and be carrying out similar practices to make an impact. If one group is not involved, the whole effect may not be felt.
Making renovations eco-friendly is achievable in the modern age. Lots of construction companies incorporate environmental focuses into their practices and carry this forward in their client interactions.
Image source: inhabitat.com
