If you’re thinking about enhancing your bathroom, why not make it a green one? Renewing your bathroom is both chic and eco-friendly, which means it can be beautiful, easy on the planet, and easy on the wallet. Even better, ‘going green’ does not come at the expense of comfort or style. In Carol Stream, IL, there are numerous easy and affordable changes you can make to your bathroom to make it more eco-friendly. Here are a few actionable steps to get you started on your eco-friendly journey.
Why Choose an Eco-Friendly Bathroom Remodel?
In every home, the bathroom is one of the ‘go to’ places. It is one of the places where a lot of water and energy is also consumed. Choosing to make eco-friendly choices during your remodel can assist in lessening your carbon footprint, saving you money in the energy bills, and even enhancing the value of your home. As much as a green bathroom remodel is beneficial to the environment, it also betters the general health of your home, by using non-toxic materials and sustainable practices.
Start with Water-Saving Fixtures
Choosing water-efficient fixtures will help with making your bathroom eco-friendlier. Consider showerheads and faucets that have been designed to be low-flow. These fixtures ensure water is used efficiently, while maintaining sufficient sink and shower pressure. The shift will help preserve water and reduce utilities bills at the same time, leading to saving gallons per day.
Another one is the dual flush toilet. Depending on the case, you can choose between full flush and lighter flush. The toilet is functional and helps reduce water usage.
Sustainable Materials Make a Difference
Sustainable and eco-friendly options include bamboo, a rapidly renewable material ideal for flooring and cabinetry. Bamboo is stylish, durable, and moisture resistant which is a material relevant to bathroom spaces.
Countertops can be made using recycled glass, quartz, and reclaimed wood. These materials look great and help to cut down on wood that is waste.
When choosing the tiles of your bathroom, accessories such as tiles made of natural porcelain or ceramic can also be a fine selection. These materials last a long time, are non-toxic, and therefore a friendlier option for improving the health of your bathroom.
Energy Efficient Lighting
Lighting, especially focused in the bathroom, sets a certain mood and it’s not hard to spend a little extra in order to save a lot when it comes to energy bulbs. LED technology is one of the most energy-efficient bulb options. These bulbs save around 80 percent of energy compared to incandescent and also have a longer lifespan. Also, LED bulbs come in many styles, colors, and shapes so that you are not forced to sacrifice your style for energy savings.
You can also LED bulb With dimmer switches or motion sensors that illuminate only when someone is in its radius. Collectively, these options offer a sizable savings on energy over a period of time.
Maximize the Benefits of Natural Ventilation
Moisture control is one of the most difficult challenges in a bathroom and, instead of exhaust fans which are also energy hogging, try using devices like openable windows, skylights or vents to help circulate the air that does not require electricity. These devices help save moisture and energy in addition to keeping the bathroom dry.
Eco-Friendly Paints and Finishes
Your choice of paint and finish touches can greatly affect the level of air sanitary in your bathroom. Most paint options are typically filled with the toxic VOCs in paint fumes. Looking for low VOC or no VOC options greatly increases the paint options for your home and helps the environment.
If you are planning to paint your bathroom trim or walls, you can use eco paints and help your bathroom remodel. These paints are also eco friendly and come in great finishes. You will also increase the leftover air quality.
Use Recycled and Upcycled Decor
Don’t ignore the small details! Mirrors, towel hangers and storage baskets can be made, decorated or sourced from leftover, upcycled and repurposed materials. Unique pieces constructed from old repurposed furniture or things from the secondhand shop can be visually impactful and aid in the reduction of supply and demand on the market.
If you enjoy DIY projects, you can use old things from your house. An old wooden ladder can be transformed into a towel rack and can be used as decor to add a rustic touch without the unnecessary waste.
A Green Remodel That Pays Off
Besides the environmental considerations, this also adds value to your home. Many homebuyers desire homes with green features, and a green and water-conserving bathroom is a prominent selling feature. The ‘green’ utility designs of the bathroom will suffice the green bathroom and save you a lot of utility cost over time, making the renovation self-sustaining.
Conclusion:
Ultimately, there are many approaches to eco-friendly remodels, and as evidenced by the circumvention of the standard practice of closing walls, the eco-friendly approaches are often the more innovative ones. Many fixtures, from toilets to sinks and showers, which are water-efficient and of high quality are also readily available. Signature Home Construction has the best designs for eco-friendly remodels in Carol Stream, IL.
FAQs
1. How much does an eco-friendly bathroom remodel cost?
The cost of an eco-friendly bathroom remodel can vary depending on the size of your bathroom, the materials you choose, and the complexity of the remodel. However, many eco-friendly options, such as water-saving fixtures and LED lighting, can be quite affordable. Additionally, the long-term savings on your water and energy bills can make the investment worthwhile.
2. Can I make my bathroom eco-friendly without a full remodel?
Absolutely! Even small changes, like swapping out old light bulbs for LEDs, installing a low-flow showerhead, or using eco-friendly cleaning products, can make a big difference. Start with a few simple steps and gradually incorporate more sustainable options over time.
3. Will an eco-friendly bathroom remodel increase my home’s value?
Yes! Many homebuyers are looking for homes with eco-friendly features, so an eco-friendly bathroom remodel can increase your home’s resale value. Plus, the savings on utilities will be a big selling point for potential buyers.
4. Are there any eco-friendly materials that are durable for a bathroom?
Yes, there are many durable eco-friendly materials perfect for bathrooms, including bamboo, recycled glass, porcelain, and quartz. These materials are resistant to moisture, making them a great choice for bathroom environments.
5. How do I find a contractor who specializes in eco-friendly remodels?
Look for a contractor with experience in sustainable building practices. Signature Home Construction specializes in eco-friendly remodels and can help you design and execute a bathroom that aligns with your green values.
