It's So Easy Bein' Green

There are many benefits to a green home. If you’re ready to make some eco-friendly updates to your home and lifestyle, read on to ‘go green.’

1. Opt for Environmentally-Friendly Paint

Are your walls in need of a refresh? You can spruce up your walls, while keeping the environment in mind, by opting for eco-friendly paint. Next time you’re comparing paint chips, be sure to look for a non-toxic paint that does not contain chemicals or give off harmful gases (VOC’s).

2. Seal Windows & Doors

Sealing windows and doors is a small, inexpensive solution that can have a big impact on the efficiency of your home. Drafty and poorly insulated windows and doors can create fluctuating temperatures in your home. This can make your space cold in the winter and hot in the summer, reducing the indoor comfort level and can cause moisture vapor damage. Air can leak in and out of a building through these cracks, joints between different materials, pipe and wire penetrations, and other small gaps and openings. These leaks can increase your heating and cooling bills. As a general rule, you should caulk any cracks or openings between surfaces which do not move relative to each other and where a permanent seal is desired.

3. Don’t Skimp on Insulation

You need to choose high-quality insulation to better protect yourself from the elements. Poor insulation might not affect you as much during the warm summer months, but come winter, it will cost you mightily. Good roof insulation will ensure you save money on energy and will also help you reduce your carbon footprints. By using high-quality insulation and plasterboard, you will be helping your home stay warmer during the winter and cooler in the summer, all while reducing your bills and environmental impact.

4. Energy Efficient Appliances

Look for eco-friendly dishwashers, freezers, refrigerators, ovens and washing machines, as they will consume less energy and will fit your budget. Also, consider LED lighting as artificial lighting accounts for about 15% of the average domestic energy bills. LED lighting requires a lot less power and is a more sustainable source of artificial lighting. Some LED’s can actually last as long as 22 years.