Go Green in the Bathroom
by James on Aug.06, 2010, under Bathrooms, Home Improvements, Interior Design
A remodelling project can be a wallet drainer. So how do you recoup the costs of labour, material and accessories when planning a bathroom makeover? Turn it green. Green building is becoming more and more important to a great number of people, which in turn has created an economical and logical choice for consumers.
Going green means installing bathroom fixtures and accessories that cut energy and water usage by a considerable percent.
To save on water costs, install low-flow showerheads, toilets and faucet aerators. Aerators combine a mixture of air and water, which is indiscernible to most people washing up and brushing their teeth, yet it saves a considerable amount of water and money. If you have a house full of males, consider the installation of a urinal for further water-saving measures.
Bathroom flooring now comes in a natural linoleum blend of cork, chalk, oils and resin that is naturally water resistant. Those who prefer a wood floor can opt for bamboo, which is a rapidly renewable source yet easy on the bank account.
Money and the environment both win when bathroom furniture is bought locally and made of either renewable materials or a rapid renewal source. Strategically placed windows to utilize sunlight cuts down on energy costs, as do multi-layered curtains to help retain heat in the winter and block the sun during the summer months.
Use LED or CFL lighting. Both are longer lasting and use less energy than incandescent bulbs.
These tips not only will save the environment, but will also loosen the monetary stranglehold on your wallet.