Just because something is eco-friendly doesn’t mean that it can’t look good. You can improve the appearance of your home and still do something that’s good for the environment. Here are some home improvement ideas that are eco-friendly and are still aesthetically pleasing.
Paint Your Home
Painting the outside of your home is something that can immediately change its appearance and curb appeal. Look for paint that’s non-toxic and has low VOC’s. These types of paints are getting easier to find in the stores as they become more popular. Take a look at the interior of your home. Consider repainting the inside so that you can get a fresh, new look. Use the same type of non-toxic paint. You may find that it doesn’t linger in the air the same way as older paints.
Replace Windows and Doors
Changing out your windows and doors may be the smart decision to increase your energy efficiency. You can select a variety of styles that will fit with the look of your home. A replacement wood window frame can add character to your home without sacrificing the energy benefits. New doors can help to maintain a consistent look to your home. You may also find that not all doors are created equal. Depending on the composition of the material, some are better insulators than others.
Photo by Heydt Designs
Invest in Landscaping
Having green space around your home can help to cut down on some of your cooling costs during the summer. This doesn’t mean that you need to go crazy adding in bushes and shrubs. Select a few choices so that you don’t overwhelm your yard. Remember to plant things with size and maintenance in mind. Consider planting a shade tree on the sunny side of your house. This can provide you with some much needed shade during the heat of the summer.
Photo by Jenny Bloom Garden Design
Get New Appliances
Purchase new appliances for your kitchen. Select models that provide the greatest return on your investment. Compare the energy usage for each of the models that you want to purchase. New appliances improve the appearance of your kitchen and save you money. Some models of refrigerator offer a clear door. This allows you to see what’s in your fridge without having to waste energy opening the door. You can quickly do an inventory before you hit the grocery store.
Doing these simple home improvement ideas can improve the aesthetics of your home. You don’t need to decide between energy efficiency and appearance anymore.