Are you thinking about giving your walls a fresh look? How about doing it with paint that's kind to the planet? And who knew plants and trees could be the secret sauce to making your place feel like an eco-friendly oasis? We have got the inside scoop on how to make your Guelph home not just cosy but also Earth-loving.
So, if you're keen to jazz up your space without burning a hole in your pocket, stick around. We're about to turn your Guelph abode into a green haven, one practical tip at a time! Get ready for a home that's not just stylish but also a nod to Mother Nature. Let's dive into the world of easy, everyday green living in Guelph!
1. Repaint with Eco-Friendly and Long-Lasting Home Renovation Supplies.
Eco-friendly paint cost: $50 – $140 per imperial gallon
The paint used in many older homes in Guelph is harmful to the environment and has a severe influence on air quality. Lead paint, in particular, is hazardous to children and animals who may consume chipped bits. Even non-lead paints might include hazardous chemical compounds.
Older paints may include volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which evaporate and leak gases into the air for years after the paint has cured. In addition to minor health issues like headaches and respiratory irritations, VOCs have been linked to major health issues like cancer, kidney damage, liver damage, and more. Applying a fresh coat of eco-friendly paint with low or no VOCs will help minimize toxins in your home's air and the environment as a whole.
A new eco-friendly paint job not only improves the health of your home but can also boost its worth. According to studies, neutral-coloured homes sell for more money. When selecting a new paint colour, keep in mind how it may affect the resale value of your property.
2. Fix Air Leaks
Cost of caulking: $3 – $7 per canister
Cost of weatherstripping: $20 – $70 per 6 metres
Older homes also have older, drafty windows and doors, which can have a negative influence on energy efficiency. Fortunately, you can mitigate this effect by placing a fresh coating of caulk and weatherstripping around the outside of the house. This is one of the most affordable yet efficient ways to cut utility expenses and make your home more comfortable in a short period and for a little more than $100.
3. Switch to a Low-Flow Showerhead
Cost: $20 – $250
Showering and bathing account for 35% of home water consumption in Canada. If you prefer a shower over a bath, there are ways to save water. The first and most obvious is to shorten your shower time. A 15-minute shower with a 12.5 litre per minute shower head will consume 187.5 litres of water. You'll use half as much water if you cut that time in half.
4. Get a Programmable Thermostat
Smart thermostat cost: $100 – $300
The "set and go" functionality of today's user-friendly smart thermostats makes it easier than ever to keep your house at a consistent comfortable temperature during off-peak hours. Some smart thermostats also include learning capabilities. They may learn your household routine and schedule and alter their settings accordingly. Although smart thermostats have a greater initial cost, these small gadgets can help you save 10% or more on your utility bill.
5. Buy Energy-Efficient Appliances
Cost: Varies
Significant progress is being made in appliances such as refrigerators, stoves, dishwashers, washers, and dryers. Choose ENERGY STAR-certified models for the greatest decrease in greenhouse gas emissions, electricity consumption, and water use. As for electricity STAR washers use 25% less electricity and 33% less water.
Today's high-tech models can do everything from reminding you to change the fridge filter to delivering cooking directions directly to your oven via an app or smart home device. Not to mention that they look cool.
6. Start Your Composting
Cost: $90 – $200
Many Canadians dispose of biodegradable materials in green bins. While this is wonderful for the environment, it might be even better if you build your own compost bin and use the compost in your yard. This is also a long-term answer for individuals without access to a green bin collection program.
Compost bins can be purchased or built by homeowners. If you buy, you will most likely be able to take the composter with you when you move. If you make a compost bin out of wood, it will most likely be a permanent fixture in your Guelph home.
You can turn your waste into compost for your garden with this compost bin. This is a more environmentally friendly approach than purchasing plastic fertilizer bags.
7. Invest in Plants and Trees
Cost: $8 – $80 per plant
Plants are an excellent way to improve the curb appeal of your home, provide shade, and aid in the fight against climate change. Consider planting huge trees on the side of your house that receive the greatest sunshine. This will keep the house cool during hot summer days while also reducing the amount of electricity consumed to keep it cold.
Plants, as you may know, extract carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and release oxygen. You may improve the air you breathe by growing more plants and trees on your land.
Also Read:
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