A Guide to Sustainable Renovations in Durham 

The popularity of renovation projects has grown over the last few years. Shows like Home Renovation with Joanna Gaines and Pinterest, as well as people's intuitive creativity, are contributing to the trend. Renovation projects typically aim to bring back the glory of an existing space. Updating and renovating a home takes a lot of resources that can be difficult on the environment.

No matter what you're building or restoring, you can do it sustainably here in Durham. In this way, the process itself is environmentally friendly, and the resulting structure will benefit future generations as well as the planet.

Hire a Contractor

You'll most likely be working with a contractor for a full renovation or remodel of an old home. Having a conversation with them is an excellent way to ensure sustainable operations. If you are considering hiring a contractor, find out which contractors are sustainable in your area. Greater demand for sustainability has encouraged contractors to openly promote their efforts.

As you discuss green living with the people building your home, you will be able to learn how they can incorporate these things into their construction:

• Sustainable building products
• Energy sources that differ
• Energy-efficient appliances
• Eco-friendly insulation

If you hire a landscaper to help you with your landscaping, make sure that they use native plants whenever possible and plant shade trees to keep your house cool. Contractors can sustainably update your home, whether you're updating the whole house or certain parts of it. Preventing water loss or damage can be achieved by sealing windows and doors or tightening up faucet leaks.

You may want to consider a company that uses eco-friendly cleaning products and environmentally sustainable cleaning techniques if you intend to start your renovation with a deep clean. Environmentally friendly cleaning companies use cleaning products with lower toxic levels that are biodegradable.

Choose eco-friendly products

If you want to do the renovation yourself, you can choose environmentally friendly products. Do your research on eco-friendly products since you're responsible for the products that you use when remodeling. Eco-friendly products are easier to use than you might think. Companies are increasingly offering alternatives to their existing products as sustainability demands rise.

Paint is the easiest way to change the look and feel of a room. Traditional paints contain toxic chemicals and other toxins, which are harmful to the environment. These are commonly referred to as Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Furthermore, they can lead to headaches and respiratory problems in addition to harming the planet.

The best way to combat this issue is to use eco-friendly paint. There are several eco-friendly paints available:

• Ceramic paint
• Low/Zero VOC paint
• Milk paint
• Chalk paint
• Linseed oil paint

Since there are so many options, almost any color and finish will be suitable for a room.

If you are remodeling a larger space, you can also choose eco-friendly products. Hardwood flooring over carpet, for example, is a more sustainable choice due to its longevity and much more environmentally friendly construction. 

How about redoing your countertops? Choose natural stones like granite, which are beautiful and eco-friendly. By doing a little research, you can often decide on the right products for your future. With sustainable items, you won't have to compromise on the beauty of your home.

Invest in small and targeted upgrades

The costs of restoration work do not have to exceed your budget. You can take a number of steps to become more sustainable. Sustainability is often a driving force behind renovation projects. It is usually targeted upgrades. Install solar panels, upgrade your insulation, or replace your hot water system to reduce your home's carbon footprint. To complete these projects, which can cost thousands of dollars, professionals are typically required. In the long run, however, they can help you save money. These are all worthwhile investments, provided that you have enough time and money to make them. When you're trying to increase the value of your home, you should think about making upgrades that promote sustainability.

Even if your budget is smaller or you don't want to spend a lot of time upgrading and renovating, there are plenty of "green" things you can do. Follow these steps to take action:

• Hanging curtains to prevent heat loss
• Sealing gaps around windows and doors
• Hot water and air conditioning system adjustments
• Ceiling fan installation

A sustainable renovation is a good idea no matter how large or how small. By planning, making some changes, and partnering with the right people, you can ensure the sustainability of your project. In more ways than one, bringing a new lease of life to an old, outdated property is incredibly rewarding!

Whether it is water damage or another disaster, Restoration1 of Durham can assist you. Give us a call today!