Anyone who is green doesn’t want a sick house syndrome. Many eco-conscious homeowners want to see their values reflected in their living space. They’re aware of their impact on the environment. As well as they often seek out new ways to curb their carbon emissions. Also waste by modifying their home. As they adopt green trends, they reduce their footprint, little by little.
Despite the interest, many green trends fall beyond the budgetary restraints of the average homeowner. Large-scale renovations like solar panel installations often exceed $10,000. Yes folks and even though government incentives make these systems more affordable. However, the price tag remains too steep for most middle-class families.
Preserve the Planet and Savings
With this in mind, which trends are reasonable for someone who wants to preserve the planet and their savings? We’ll answer that question, walking you through everything you need to know about energy-efficient renovations, eco-friendly design and other green improvements which won’t break the bank.
Houseplants & Greenery
Research proves the numerous mental and physical health benefits of houseplants. Studies show they can increase concentration and productivity by up to 15 percent,. So forget sick house syndrome and reduce stress. All to improve mood. Clearly, indoor greenery serves more than a cosmetic purpose.
When you bring peace lilies, calatheas, kalanchoes and other houseplants into your living space. You create an environment which fosters relaxation and a sense of calm. If you think your home looks clinical or gray, flowers and colorful flora will lend life and warmth to an otherwise stifling room.
To get started, take a trip to a greenhouse in your area and browse their selection. Some of the best houseplants for beginners include succulents, bromeliads and many varieties of dracaena. As long as you read the attached instructions and make sure they receive enough light and water, you can easily care for them.
DIY Furniture Projects
Homeowners shopping for new furniture often visit local outlets. While they usually find a broad inventory of chairs, tables and dressers in a variety of different woods, their purchase contributes to deforestation. Additionally, these homeowners allow volatile organic compounds to enter their living space.
Manufacturers treat their furniture with preservatives and chemicals, and over time, these substances release VOCs. In an enclosed area like a bedroom or office, the VOCs collect and concentrate, causing “sick house syndrome” in homeowners. The symptoms range from minor to serious, depending on exposure.
Fortunately, you have a simple solution to deforestation and sick house syndrome. Given the right tools and DIY experience, you can salvage timber from landfills and assemble your own furniture. A trip to the scrapyard will yield materials, and from there, you can create something unique to your home.
Upgraded HVAC Systems
The VOCs mentioned in the previous section are more of a threat than many homeowners believe, and indoor air quality should remain a top consideration when budgeting for renovations. While it’s tempting to spend money on more visible improvements to your home, your health takes priority.
The best option for sustaining good air quality involves upgrading your home heating and heat exchangers. A heat exchanger is a piece of equipment which allows for the exchange of heat between two fluids or air streams, allowing your HVAC system to function.
Without maintenance, these heat exchangers have the potential to break. When this happens, carbon monoxide can enter a home, presenting a life-threatening risk to the occupants. If your HVAC system is old and unreliable, you should contact a technician for a professional inspection.
Start Planning Today
It’s simple and often inexpensive to reduce your home’s impact on the environment. Whether you purchase houseplants, fashion your own furniture or upgrade your HVAC system, you make a significant difference in your footprint without making a significant difference in your bank balance.
Whichever option you decide to pursue, do more research and start planning today!
