When you're remodeling your home, it is important to keep sustainability in mind. There are two aspects of sustainability to consider: choices that are good for the planet long-term and choices that will help your home last. The good news is that many sustainable choices give you both benefits – they are better for the planet, and they're better for you. So, what materials and building practices qualify as sustainable? Our real estate agents will share some top options below.

• Reclaimed Materials
  Reclaimed materials are those that have already been used at least once and are ready to be used again. For example, barn wood is a reclaimed material you can use to make a door frame, shelf, or floor. Some companies also use reclaimed copper or iron to make lights or plumbing fixtures.
  
  When you use reclaimed materials, you are reducing the demand for new materials, thereby helping to reduce the pollution released when new materials are made. You're also preventing your reclaimed materials from being hauled off to a landfill, which helps reduce waste.
  
  
• Low-VOC Products
  When it comes to paint, stain, sealer, and similar products, always look for a low-VOC or no-VOC version. VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, are chemicals that are released as these products dry and cure. VOCs are not great for the planet or for your own health.
  
  Using low- or no-VOC products helps protect plants and animals, especially in nearby creeks and ponds. The quality of low- and no-VOC products has come a long way over the past few decades. These products now perform just as well – and sometimes better than – their high-VOC counterparts.
  
  
• Window Placement
  If your remodeling efforts include adding windows to a room, pay close attention to the direction those windows face. If you place windows on the south side of your home, they'll receive plenty of winter sun. The sunshine that streams in will help heat your home so your furnace does not consume as much energy. Lower energy bills are good for your wallet and for the planet.
  
  Choose your windows wisely, too. Low-e windows, which are coated with a material that reflects heat back into your space, will help you save even more money on energy. 
  
  
• Electric HVAC Systems
  Do you need a new heater? It's a good time make the switch to electric heating. Today's electric furnaces and heat pumps are energy-efficient and affordable. Plus, there are federal tax credits available for those who install them.
  
  Heat pumps are an especially sustainable choice. These appliances can heat and cool your home. You just have to flip a switch or press a button to switch from heating to cooling mode. Choose a heat pump, and you only need to purchase one HVAC appliance instead of a separate furnace and air conditioner. Using fewer materials is good for the planet.
  
  
• Insulation
  The better insulated your home is, the warmer it will stay in the winter. Well-insulated homes also stay cooler in the summer. Whenever you make improvements to your roof, attic, or wall spaces, make sure the places you touch are insulated. 
  
  Also, consider switching from standard fiberglass insulation to spray foam insulation. Spray foam can be injected into tight wall spaces, and it has a greater insulating value (R-value) than fiberglass. Plus, it's essentially waterproof and will last for decades, making it an even more sustainable choice.
  
  
• Energy Star Appliances
  Whether you're remodeling your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room, pay close attention to the appliances you choose. At the very least, make sure you purchase ones marked with the Energy Star logo. This means they have been evaluated by the U.S. Department of Energy and found to meet their energy-efficiency standards.
  
  An Energy Star appliance will use less energy over the years. There are also tax rebates available when you purchase some Energy Star appliances. You'll see water heaters, ovens, refrigerators, and even microwaves that are Energy Star certified.
  
  
• Green Flooring
  Historically, the materials used to make flooring have not always been sustainable. Many of the hardwoods used to make hardwood floors, for example, are sourced from areas where forests are dwindling. So, if you want to remodel your home as sustainably as possible, it pays to choose a more sustainable flooring material.
  
  Bamboo is an excellent choice. It can be grown quickly without pesticides. Tile made from recycled material works well, as does recycled rubber flooring.
  
  
• Smart Systems
  Smart home systems and appliances are not just made for your convenience. They are also designed to help you reduce energy use at home. You can tether many of these devices to an app that allows you to monitor your energy use.

Keep sustainability in mind when remodeling your home, and you'll soon have a space that's a joy to live in. Contact us if you are still looking for a new place to call home. Our friendly agents will be happy to help.