When it comes to renovating any part of your house, most people are naturally inclined towards getting the best materials their budget can afford. Whether that’s choosing new flooring for your kitchen or a specific type of roof over your head, you have to consider the quality and quantity of the material along with its longevity. A recent study shows that more and more Canadian homeowners are becoming cautious about how they improve their homes while supporting the sustainability of our planet. Here are a few tips to help you understand how to choose alternative green materials for your next home renovation project.
Cost vs Benefits
Renovating towards a greener home can be expensive. Whether it’s installing new solar panels, adding more effective insulation, purchasing energy-efficient higher-rated appliances or air sealing of windows and doors. These changes however can bring down your monthly utility bills by great margins. Canadian homeowners who have added solar panels to their roofs or opted for better home insulation options are witnessing a steady drop in their hydro bills. While the initial cost of installing these items may be expensive, not only will you save money over time, but you will also help save the planet.
Canadian Greener Homes Grant
Image courtsey of Canadian Greener Homes Grant*
In order to make Canadian living more energy efficient, the federal government launched the ‘Canadian Greener Homes Grant’ in September 2020. If you stand eligible, you can get funds for home evaluations and for retrofits, up to the amount of $5,600. Canadian homeowners can get up to $5,000 for the implementation of eligible retrofits and $600 for the pre-and post-retrofit EnerGuide evaluations. It’s easy to apply for the grant plan and install the changes proposed, arrange evaluation visits and get your reimbursement. Make sure you hire only a professional contractor to add insulation, make changes to the heat pump or install solar panels.
A Variety of Options to Do Your Part
To build a greener future for your family, you don’t always have to go above and beyond. As alternative green materials can be costly, you can add them one step at a time so it doesn’t drill a hole in your wallet. Some ideas include using non-toxic paint for your walls, starting with solar panels above the garage, getting new eco-friendly bamboo or cork flooring, insisting on using sheep’s wool for insulation, obtaining reclaimed or recycled wood for patio construction and so much more! A local company that provides Green Products and Services can help you design a custom project as per your requirements and budget.
Choosing alternative green materials is an important step to add into your next home renovation project. In addition to all the big changes, you can make a huge difference by adopting small alternative material choices. These choices will bring beauty and better functionality to your homes such as a low flow toilet, eco-friendly LED bulbs, smart thermostat, energy-efficient appliances and indoor plants. Talk to a local pro today to make your next renovation project greener!
