Cost-Saving Remodel Tips for an Eco-Friendly Bathroom
If you’re looking to remodel your bathroom, why not make it more eco-friendly to boot? It’s a similar process than you might expect, especially if you’re already going to be redoing everything anyway. That little bit of extra effort could not only make a small difference for the planet, but you could also find yourself saving on utilities.
Here are a few tips on how to make your bathroom more eco-friendly when you remodel.
Use Eco-Friendly Materials
Our planet has been dealing with a climate crisis and a resource crisis, so it’s important to start looking into ways we can recycle and reuse materials. The more we do this, the less we’ll have to strip resources from the planet or have garbage pile up in landfills. Luckily, there are many construction materials that can be recycled into new materials.
For example, metal like steel, aluminum, copper, and brass can be frequently recycled without any damage or degradation to its properties. So it’s ideal for things like fixtures, faucets, handles, and other essential items.
On top of that, eco-friendly, recycled materials can often be cheaper. This is a major benefit if you’re looking to save money on your dream bathroom remodel.
Put in Energy-Efficient Lighting
Utilities, especially electricity, have been rising in cost in Massachusetts over the past few years. This makes it expensive to leave lights on for too long, and producing electricity still consumes a lot of fossil fuels. That’s why you should look into installing energy-efficient light fixtures and find ways to avoid even needing to flip on the light switch when you can.
There are a lot of ways to brighten up your new bathroom in energy-efficient ways. Sunlight is, of course, free, clean, and renewable, so consider having an extra window or skylight installed to illuminate your bathroom during the day without flipping a switch. For nighttime lighting, use LED light fixtures. They save up to 90% more energy compared to traditional incandescent light bulbs. LED lights also last up to 25% longer, so while you might be spending a bit more upfront, you’re making that money back by saving on your energy bills.
Use Water-Wise Fixtures
It’s important to save water, not just to cut down on your water bill but for the sake of the planet. We waste a shocking amount of water every year, with much of it coming from our bathrooms. Showering accounts for nearly 17% of residential indoor water use, which adds up to nearly 40 gallons a day for the average family. Meanwhile, toilets account for nearly 30% of a home’s indoor water consumption. In fact, older, inefficient toilets can use as much as six gallons per flush!
That’s why the Environmental Protection Agency recommends using WaterSense labeled products as a way to conserve water. They are water-efficient products like showerheads, residential toilets, and bathroom faucets. They’ll consume less water which will cut down on waste, which is good for the planet and your wallet.
Remodeling your bathroom is the perfect opportunity to make it more eco-friendly, and could very well save you money in the long run. Contact us today to talk to our knowledgeable team about other ways you can make your home remodel more environmentally sustainable.
