Homeshow Daily’s remodeling professionals have the expertise to help you create a truly green and energy efficient remodeling project.

Flooring
When choosing flooring, look for recycled or renewable choices.  Bamboo grows quickly and is harvested every seven years (plus, the variety used for floors isn’t what pandas eat, so your second-grade environmentalist can relax!). Cork wears well and is harvested without cutting the tree. It comes in many finishes and colors, and is allergy friendly. Reclaimed wood recycles old materials and requires less preparation energy. Stone and tile are also available in recycled form; if you choose new or custom options, rest assured that they can be recycled one day as well.  . Made of linseed oil, wood resin, and other natural ingredients then dyed with organic materials, linoleum is strong, easy to clean, and keeps dust mites at bay. Install under floor radiant heat with an Energy Star rated thermostat to stay warm without breaking the bank during the cold winter months.  

Materials
Paying attention to construction materials will keep your home improvement project green. Homeshow Daily remodeling suppliers have many choices available. You can find reclaimed and recycled moldings, light fixtures, tubs, sinks, and other architectural supplies that can be refurbished and brought up to code if necessary. You can also use innovative products such as wheat board, which is made of wheat straw and non-formaldehyde resins. It’s a moisture-free, light substitution for particle board. Paper composite, used for counters, is another uniquely green product. It’s made of recycled paper and low VOC resins, is scratch-resistant and is available in many colors. Use stainless steel for sinks and counter-tops; it’s strong, easy to clean, and recyclable. Recycled plastic and glass also make beautiful custom counters to complement any kitchen or bathroom.

Appliances
Look for Energy Star rated appliances to conserve energy and save on utilities.  A convection cook top or oven uses magnetic energy to direct more heat at your food.  Select a top/bottom refrigerator-freezer; it will use less energy than a side-by-side model.  Eliminating the ice and water dispenser will even save more.  When it comes to lighting, add natural light through windows and skylights, and don’t forget those energy-efficient light bulbs!

Going green? Consult our Homeshow Daily experts for environmentally friendly home improvement.