So, you want to do your part to save the environment? “Going Green” is all the rage these days, and for good reason. When it comes to your house, there are myriad different approaches that you could take to make it greener. And by making it greener, you aren’t just saving the environment; you’re saving your family’s health as well! By making some simple adjustments, you can lower utility bills, save water, improve indoor air quality and save the ozone. From your friends here at Renew, Colorado’s Remodeling Magazine, we hope these tips will help get you on the way to living a greener life.
For exterior projects, use treated wood that doesn’t contain chromium or arsenic
-Reduces exposure to chromium and arsenic, which are nasty chemicals particularly harmful to children who play on structures built with treated wood
Add chlorine filters to showerheads
-Reduces chlorine absorbed by the skin
Install water-filtration units on faucets
-Reduces contaminants in water
Install a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter
-Reduces microparticulates from the air
Install a separate exhaust fan in your garage
-Creates healthier indoor environments
Place a fireplace insert into your old fireplace
-Reduces drafts, decreases heat loss from the house, improves indoor air quality
Use Low/No VOC paint, wood finishes and adhesives
-Improves indoor air quality, reduces smog and is healthier for installers and occupants
Install whole house vacuum system
-Expels dust from inside the house, improving indoor air quality
For flooring projects, use natural linoleum instead of vinyl
-Reduces exposure to toxins, is durable and healthier for occupants and installers
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