Currently, sustainability is all the rave. After all, modern day technology has enabled homes to be as green and environmental as possible. So, why shouldn’t we take advantage of green technology during a kitchen remodel in Plymouth Michigan? Pivoting your kitchen towards a more sustainable design can be overwhelming, so here are the top five tips you can make your kitchen remodel sustainable.
5 Ways Your Kitchen Remodel in Plymouth Michigan Can Be Sustainable
Remodeling your kitchen and updating some of the older items can be a complete game changer. Not just in terms of appearance but also functionality. This is especially true if you live in a home that was built over 30 years ago. Many new technologies of today simply weren’t used that often back then. Taking advantage of these new technologies can not only make your home kitchen look better and become more functional but it can also make it much more energy efficient as well. Here are 5 tips to consider if you’re getting a kitchen remodel done on you home.
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Plan
Creating a sustainable kitchen remodel takes a decent amount of time and effort if you want it properly executed. Voicing your desire for a sustainable kitchen is the first thing you should do with your contractor. Immediately, your contractor will be able to get rid of any possible material and appliance ideas that aren’t as sustainable as others. This will make it easier for you to choose materials and appliances.
In addition to your contractor’s advice, don’t be afraid to seek out ideas and tips from people who already have sustainable kitchens. Whether it’s a simple design or an appliance, you can find a ton of kitchen inspiration on websites like Pinterest.
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Proper Ventilation
Often, the air inside your home is overlooked during a kitchen remodel. But if you’re remodeling your kitchen to be more sustainable, this is a crucial aspect to take into consideration. Most homeowners are unaware that composites in materials, such as shelving and molding, typically contain formaldehyde. Although the levels of formaldehyde in these materials are undetectable by human noses, they omit gasses that can contribute to health problems. Glues, paints, and other products also contain compounds that cause health issues.
If you can’t avoid using these materials, be sure to update your kitchen’s ventilation to ensure indoor air is easily replaced with fresh outdoor air. But ideally, you should try to avoid using these materials completely.
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Update Insulation
If your kitchen remodel includes opening windows and walls, you should definitely consider updating your home’s insulation during the process. Tight insulation helps ensure your home is energy efficient because it prevents air from seeping through cracks and gaps. This means that you won’t have to crank your air conditioner or heater as much as you normally would.
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Switch to LED Bulbs
Energy efficiency is also linked to LED bulbs. Not only are LED bulbs more energy efficient, which means you will save money on electricity. But, they are also a softer, more pleasant type of light on the human eye. Most homeowners are unaware of how their lights can affect their health, especially their vision. While strong, powerful lighting might brighten a room, it’s detrimental to one’s health. LED bulbs have the ability to lighten a room as much as one would desire, but it is a softer, less intense form of light.
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Update Appliances
Lastly, updating appliances is an essential part of a sustainable kitchen remodel. Older appliances tend to be less energy efficient, which means they result in higher energy costs and more of a detriment to the environment. Nowadays, appliances tend to have an energy rating. This rating will help you decide which appliance is right for your needs and budget. For more information about how to choose an energy efficient appliance, as well as how to create a sustainable kitchen, be sure to consult your local contractor today.
Call Us Today
If you’re considering a kitchen remodel in your home be sure to give Home Pros Plymouth a call today for a free consultation. We’ll go over your options and also provide time frame and pricing estimates. And if you decide to use us for the kitchen remodel project you can rest assured that it will be done correctly. Call us today to get started!
