Five Tips for a Sustainable Remodel

WaterSense faucets, toilets and showerheads are high-performing, water-efficient fixtures that reduce water use in your home. It’s an easy way to make sure Earth’s precious resource, and your money, don’t go down the drain.

FutureFoam is making what was old, new again. Their carpet pads are made from Nike Grind (post-industrial Nike Footwear foam). Redgard, a waterproof flooring layer, also uses 70 percent recycled materials for their uncoupling mats for tile and stone.

Nearly all the wood offered at The Home Depot is FSC,  SFI (Sustainable Forestry Initiative) or PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification)-certified. Bonus: more than 90 percent of the wood comes from North America.

Lights on, but nobody’s home? Try these tips to save on your energy bill:  

• Install motion sensors so lights are only on when needed. Sensors and dimmer switches use 50 percent less energy than standard switches. 
• Smart, programmable thermostats power down air conditioning or heating when you’re away or less active, saving you $180. 
• ENERGY STAR LED lights are well-worth the investment, using 70-90 percent less energy than conventional light bulbs.

Want a pop of color without breathing in the fumes? Try low or no VOC Behr paint paired with phthalate and formaldehyde-free vinyl flooring, like FloorScore-certified LifeProof flooring. With air quality-friendly flooring and paint, you can make your home full of style and clean air.