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Low-cost, eco-friendly home improvements can benefit homeowners in several ways. Not only do they help to reduce utility bills and the reliance on a power grid, but they can also help boost the value of a home when done correctly. And, of course, making energy changes around the house is great for the environment and can help to lower your carbon footprint. There are several simple things you can do yourself to make a difference, but when it comes to bigger projects–such as adding solar panels to the roof–you’ll need to contact a professional. Here are some green DIY projects from Slate Avenue to consider.
Raise your resale value
If you think you might be putting your home on the market in the near future, there are some simple improvements you can make that might boost the value, which will allow you to raise your asking price. Some DIY changes you can tackle include insulating the attic and/or garage, replacing old windows and appliances with energy-efficient ones, and replacing all lighting with LED bulbs, which have a long life and require less energy. Read up on what buyers in your area want specifically in an eco-friendly home, and don’t forget to save receipts and take before-and-after photos of the changes so you can quantify your work.
Seal it up
When it comes to energy use, it’s important to make sure your home isn’t shedding it through the windows, under doors, or through the roof. This is also something to keep in mind if you operate a green business as well. Good insulation can go a long way toward helping you lower your monthly bills and trap in heat or air conditioning, but you can also look for tiny cracks around windows that leak air and make sure there are no gaps under doors (or at the top). These are easy fixes with caulk or weather stripping, and you can also utilize draft-stoppers for doors with wide gaps at the bottom.
Reduce your consumption
Electricity isn’t the only resource that needs to be reduced around the house. It’s also important to make sure your household isn’t using too much water. It can be difficult to keep up with the amount you’re going through each week; however, you can install a low-flow toilet and showerhead, or use a faucet aerator. These are fairly simple to install and work by mixing air with the water to lessen the amount used with each shower. If you feel uncomfortable putting in a toilet on your own, contact a local plumber, but make sure you read customer reviews first. Review sites also sometimes offer coupons or discounts, which will help with the bill.
Change up your landscaping
Don’t forget about the outside of your home! Certain types of landscaping can use quite a bit of water, but you can make green changes by adding rocks, mulch, or plants that can thrive without daily watering. When it is time to water, utilize an adjustable sprinkler system that lets you control how much water is used, or reuse household water for your plants. You can also make use of a rain barrel and start a compost heap; just check with your local government first to make sure you have permission.
Making eco-friendly changes to your home doesn’t have to be costly or difficult. Start small with a few DIY projects, and look for inspiration from homeowners who have made these types of changes to their own spaces. With a little creativity, you can save money each month and boost the value of your home when you’re ready to sell.
Guest Post Author: Susan Paterson
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