While appraising where green improvements could be introduced in your house, there are many areas you can explore. Many green solutions are relatively straightforward and easy to install, while some involve major upheaval and may be more suited to a new building project than a reflective fit. Here are a few ways you can utilise to increase your house’s green credentials and save money at the same time:

Green Living Research

There are advantages and disadvantages with using any building material, and the same goes for eco-friendly options. It is always important to confirm a manufacturer’s claims with hard evidence if it is possible. Manufacturers are concerned primarily with selling their goods, so it is necessary to research and compare products and think of different ideas to make sure they meet your own needs. The concepts covered here deal mostly with aspects of what is currently available in the market regarding making your home a greener place to live.

green living

The Reward of Green Living

If all houses utilised many of the ideas featured here, the energy usage of our population as a whole would be significantly reduced. However, the initial financial expense of a plan must always be considered. For example, with the installation of low-energy lightbulbs, the initial cost is low, so the payoff is fast regarding saving both money and energy. But with more extensive and more expensive projects, such as an installation of solar panels or solar water-heaters, the energy-saving reimbursement may be quicker, but it will take longer to recover the initial cost of installation. The best advice is to address the primary problems first like good insulation, using low-energy electrical goods, and recycling and leave the more complex and complicated projects as part of any future home improvements you might have planned.

Here are a few miscellaneous ideas for you to gain some extra merit marks on your green report card.

  • Making a compost pit can be the ultimate definition of green living. Turn your household food scraps and any yard debris into fertiliser.

  • A small investment like low-Energy Lighting can have a significant impact on saving electricity in the longer run.

  • In a lived-in roof space like a rafter attic, it’s essential to ensure the ceiling is insulated sufficiently.

  • For brick or stone homes, use lime mortars as they are far greener than using those that are cement-based.

  • Be sure to choose energy-efficient models of any appliances that you plan to have installed in your house.

  • Choose flooring made from sustainable sources or natural materials such as bamboo and cork.

  • Installing double or even triple glazed windows will make your home more energy efficient.

  • A proper waste disposal system for sorting of materials for recycling is essential for every home.

  • You can recycle water from sinks, baths, and showers in your house as well as using collected rainwater in the home.

  • Well-insulated interior and exterior walls can help to reduce the energy requirements of your house further.