6 Remodeling Tips for Going Green with Your Investment Property

Are you looking for great ideas to go “green” with your investment property? Not only is going green a great way to protect the environment and keep the long-term costs of your property down, but it will also help to make your property more attractive to potential renters. If you want to go green with your next remodeling project, here are a few tips to keep in mind.

Tip #1: Insulate

Insulating your property is the simplest way to make it more energy-efficient while achieving the biggest return on investment. While insulating can be a bit costly, it is something that you will only need to do one time in order to enjoy the long-term benefits. When insulating, be sure to pay particular attention to the basement and attic.

Tip #2: Replace Windows and Doors

Windows and doors are often the weakest link when it comes to maintaining an energy-efficient home. Cracks in construction and installation can lead to significant heat loss in the winter. Consider replacing old windows with double-glazed models and you may be able to cut your energy loss by up to 50 percent.

Tip #3: Install a Programmable Thermostat

Programmable thermostats are relatively inexpensive but can help you to save up to 15 percent on your heating and cooling costs each year. This is because you can program your thermostat to automatically turn down a few degrees at nighttime when you are asleep and then turn back up to a higher temperature before you get up in the morning so you wake up to a warm house. You can also program your thermostat to automatically turn down while you are away at work, but to turn back up before you return home for the evening, all of which will reduce your overall energy consumption.

Tip #4: Use Natural Materials

Using natural materials when remodeling your investment property can also help to make it more eco-friendly. In addition to being toxin-free, materials that are natural and organic are often more durable and effective than their synthetic counterparts. Natural linoleum, for example, is twice as durable as vinyl. Similarly, granite countertops can last for generations.  

Tip #5: Use VOC-Free Paint

Many paints on the market contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are solvents that get released into the air as the paint dries. While the long-term effects of VOCs are uncertain, they can create headaches and dizziness while using the paint. In addition, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has reported that some VOCs are suspected carcinogens. As such, the federal government caps the VOC content in paint to 250 grams per liter for flat finishes and at 360 grams per liter for other finishes. You can avoid them altogether, however, by selecting a paint that is VOC-free or low-VOC.

Tip #6: Change Out Your Lights

Switching out your light fixtures and bulbs with LED lighting is one of the least expensive and most effective ways to reduce energy costs and waste. This is not only because LED lights are more energy-efficient, but they also offer a longer lifespan than traditional light bulbs.