New Image and Your Eco-Friendly Remodel
Look for products certified by The Greenguard Environmental Institute, the Forest Stewardship Council, or Cradle to Cradle. Learn about these and other certifications at www.BuildingGreen.com.
Here are some material suggestions. Give us a call for more suggestions on how to make your next project eco-friendly, and a free quote.
- Linoleum instead of vinyl. Vinyl is made with substances (dioxin and phthalates among them) that can contribute to serious health problems. True linoleum, made from linseed oil, is a better choice.
- Install tiles made of recycled content.
- Low or no-VOC paints. Regular paints release toxic volatile organic compounds (VOCs), but non-VOC paints are now readily available. Also, look for low or no-VOC sealers and caulks.
- Bamboo, cork, or reclaimed wood instead of carpet or hardwood.
- For carpets use products certified by the Carpet and Rug Institute's Green Label and Green Label Plus programs which have low VOC emissions.
- Choose Energy Star rated appliances, which will use less energy and often don't cost more.
- Put in formaldehyde-free cabinetry to avoid releasing environmental toxins.
- Install recycled-content glass countertops - a great alternative to granite.
- Well-placed windows, skylights, or sun tunnels use the natural light instead of energy.
- Replace toilets with low-flow models.
- Get a water filter installed instead of costly bottled water.
- Use flow reducers on the shower and sinks so you're using less water.