Opt for more sustainable products
For Yee, who encourages his clients to consider the environmental impacts of their renovating decisions, materials like bamboo and cork are the ideal replacement for traditional hardwood flooring. "Bamboo is such a rapidly growing resource and unlike cutting down a forest, bamboo can be harvested again and again," says Yee. "It also looks great as a floor and is extremely durable." Perhaps people shy away from cork flooring because they think of the flimsiness of corkboards and wine corks, but Yee raves about this material, which is made from the bark of an oak tree (and can be harvested without cutting down the tree). "Once treated cork can be waterproof (think: bathroom and kitchen floors) and much more comfortable to walk on than tile."
Say no to VOCs
Quite simply, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are released as gases from products such as paints, lacquers, paint strippers, building materials, furniture and carpets. These chemicals are released at room temperature and are bad for the environment and your health. "Buy low or no-VOC paints and inquire about eco products when purchasing furniture and other building materials," says Yee.
Avoid the landfill: Donate what you can
With 58 stores across Canada, Habitat for Humanity’s ReStores (www.habitat.ca/restores) help to promote the re-use of building materials, tools, and supplies. With revenues generated from their sales going toward local Habitat building projects and charitable work, you’re not only helping the earth but also supporting the development of affordable housing in your community. Before you demolish your bathroom and leave the rubble for trash, consider what materials (sinks, doors, light fixtures, lumber) can be donated. For larger items, ReStore will gladly schedule a pick-up from your home.
Before you buy new, try re-used
What if you could find second-hand appliances and cabinetry for a modern, stylish kitchen at half the price? "Recently our Toronto salvage crew took apart the kitchen of stunning Bridle Path mansion, all of which was donated to the store," says Derek Harney, Vice President of ReStore Operations with Habitat for Humanity Toronto. Without all the packaging and manufacturing costs, you’ll save energy and money if you opt to shop at a ReStore. "Last year alone the Toronto ReStores diverted one-and-three-quarter million tons of material from the landfill," says Derek. Now that’s green!
Think and shop locally
Finally, when it comes to choosing building materials, consider the distances these products have traveled to reach your home and the conditions under which they were produced. "I favour local products which help support our economy and create jobs," says Ken Ruest, Senior Researcher with Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s (CMHC) Sustainable Housing Group. "Remember, the cheapest products are not always the most sustainable or environmentally friendly."
Image courtesy of Duro-Design
Read more in Homes and Renovating
You might also enjoy:
0 Comment