A kitchen makeover is one of the few things that may dramatically transform the appearance of your home. Suppose you’re looking to transform your home into one that can be more eco-friendly, i.e., more sustainable or environmentally friendly. In that case, the kitchen is the best location to begin. Here are a few suggestions for ensuring your kitchen remodel will be fashionable and sustainable.
1: Eco-friendly Paint
We are all accustomed to a freshly painted room’s smell. However, this smell appears not as safe as you might believe. Paint conventionally used has VOCs, also known as Volatile Organic Compounds, which are dangerous for your well-being. They are not only released when the paint is still wet but persist for a long time after. Some of the short-term side effects are headaches, nausea, finding it challenging to breathe, etc. Research conducted recently shows that longer-term side effects might include cancer.
The answer is easy. The solution is simple: Make sure the contractor you choose to remodel your kitchen uses VOC-free paints for kitchen renovations.
2: Utilize Recycled Materials to Make Your New Countertops
Removing old countertops is a perfect opportunity to make the newly designed kitchen more eco-friendly. For instance, you can use reclaimed wood as well as recycled glass. These materials don’t require toxic sealing agents non-porous, need no maintenance, and last for a long time without cracking or chipping. Another alternative is to use quarts. It’s a natural product that lasts for a long time; when it’s time to dispose of it, you can reuse it.
3: Instead of Replacing Them, Reface Your Kitchen Cabinets
If you’re considering upgrading your kitchen cabinets, remember that refacing them would be a more sustainable alternative than completely replacing them. It will create less waste going to the closest landfill and cost less. When you return the cabinets, request your contractor for recycled wood or formaldehyde-free lumber to reduce the carbon footprint of your home as minimally as you can.
4: Opt for a Sustainable Flooring
There are many eco-friendly flooring options, including recycled wood planks. There are also bamboo, cork that is eco-friendly, or recycled tiles. The new generation of “green flooring producers are especially adept at blending fashion with sustainability. You don’t have to worry that you’ll have to sacrifice beauty and design.
5: Invest in Energy-Efficient Windows
The beautiful, spacious windows make your kitchen more inviting to cook meals and spend time with family. Choose high-quality windows that are energy efficient and help reduce the heat that escapes your home to the outdoors. Replacement of windows has proven to lower costs for fuel by as much as 12 percent.
6: Choose Lighting That Is Energy Efficient
Natural light is ideal when deciding on the proper lighting for your newly renovated kitchen. When you can, utilize tubular daylighting systems or skylights. If possible, avoid artificial lighting and choose LEDs instead of incandescent bulbs. They are more efficient in energy use, last longer, and are available in a wide range of shades.
7: Ensure That You Select Water-Efficient Faucets
You can significantly reduce water consumption by installing eco-friendly faucets in your next kitchen remodel. For instance, low-flow faucets conserve water without impacting the pressure of water. Installing touch-free faucets is an additional smart move. They have sensors that save water by automatically cutting off the water supply when it’s not needed.
8: Select Energy-Efficient Appliances
Not to be left out, kitchen appliances typically account for 10 percent or more of your household’s power consumption. If you select energy-efficient appliances in the future, you’ll reduce your expenses and the power plants’ emissions. Many people, for instance, know that modern convection ovens and induction stove tops are more efficient than gas-powered ones.
The design of kitchens is a complicated and constantly changing process. If you want to revamp your kitchen, contact Ottawa Home Pros on a call. A representative from our team will be more than happy to visit your home, provide suggestions, and offer an estimate for free. Call us at (613)-288-9145 or email us at info@ottawahomepros.com.
