Energy-Efficient Remodeling Tips
Inflation keeps rising. But when you can’t wait any longer to remodel your property, don’t look any further than energy-efficient renovation. This article will discuss remodeling tips and the long-term benefits of installing eco-friendly features that prolong the life cycle of your space while saving you money.
Energy-Efficient Remodeling
Saving energy in your home renovation is the best way to reduce costs and create a sustainable environment. Here are some of the best remodeling tips for energy saving home improvement:
Light Bulbs
Traditional light bulbs are a heavy strain on your energy bills—even incandescent bulbs are likely driving your utility bill. LED light bulbs offer an energy-efficient solution. The upfront cost of the bulb is more expensive, but LED bulbs use 80% less electricity and last up to twice as long, saving you money in the long run.
Compact fluorescent bulbs are another option for energy saving. CFLs use 70% less electricity than traditional bulbs and last up to twice as long.
When it’s time for disposal, you’re safe with LEDs and CFLs. Compared to other bulbs, energy-efficient lighting does not carry harmful materials like mercury.
Your home appliances make up a large portion of your monthly utility bills. Researching and installing energy-efficient washers, dryers, dishwashers, and refrigerators will increase sustainability and save money.
Be sure to check out the Energy Star ratings. On this website, you can search for any home appliance before purchasing and confirm its energy-efficiency score.
Smart Control
Smart technology is one of the best remodeling tips for maximizing energy efficiency. Adding a smart thermostat system to your property can eliminate the hassle of constant adjustments and save hundreds of dollars a month.
Water Heaters
Having multiple water heaters in your home can be expensive. Tankless or solo water heaters are an energy-efficient option if you live in a smaller property like an apartment, condo, or small home. However, costing thousands of dollars, these appliances may be out of your budget, so let’s look at a few recommendations for reducing costs with your water heater:
- Lowering the Thermostat
- Less Hot Baths and Showers
- Water Heater Blanket Insulation
Weatherize
Even if you’ve installed energy-efficient home upgrades, your structure’s sustainability and durability are still at risk of experiencing the same problems before renovation if you don’t seal cracks. Add energy-efficient windows, caulking, and insulation to secure your space, and be sure to check out their Energy Star ratings.
Aging or poorly installed windows will increase the heating and cooling in your property. Browse Energy Star to evaluate the ratings of energy-efficient windows you’re researching. Look for these qualities:
- Warmer Interior Glass
- Glass Panes Aiding Insulation
- Warmer Edges for Insulation
- Heating-Reduced Coating
Home Renovation Tips
Now that we’ve covered everything about energy-efficient remodeling, let’s run through a few home improvement remodeling tips before you begin:
Preparation
Preparing a budget is the first step for any homeowner considering renovation. If you’ve hired a contractor, stay on track by touching base throughout renovation planning. Factor in hotel expenses if the renovation is significant. Finally, increase your prepared budget by 10% to account for extra costs, which will likely occur.
Staying out of debt, especially during inflation, will give you peace of mind throughout the renovation. An option many homeowners don’t know about is the home equity line of credit (HELOC), which could prove to be a high return on your investment once work is complete.
Cutting Costs
Before the construction of your home begins, you have to acquire permits. Obtaining these ahead of schedule will significantly reduce costs, but failure to provide legal documentation will result in a financial penalty.
If you have a prior construction background and want to reduce labor costs, you can even attempt a demo yourself. Be prepared with all the proper materials it may take to break down a wall, and factor in safety precautions for your well-being.
Commercial Renovation Planning
Many contractors, like RSP Group, offer leading commercial renovation services in addition to residential construction. Although commercial renovation is streamlined, owners have their hands full to prepare for the desired outcome.
Designation
Businesses should have a prepared budget and hiring committee to select the right contractor before renovation. Once labor begins, appointed liaisons should oversee the daily operation sectors while confirming updates and budget actions with the contractor.
Energy Star ratings don’t just list the efficiency of home appliances; you can also prioritize the best energy-efficient design with these resources and stay up to date with other businesses:
Still researching additional energy-efficient remodeling tips? Learn more from the Department of Energy before you begin your renovation.
Choose Energy Efficient Remodeling With the RSP Group
As a trusted contractor serving the Bay Area for the past 50 years, RSP offers all the commercial and residential services you need to complete your renovation. And we’re flexible in providing energy-efficient remodeling to cut costs for you. Below are the options available for your space:
RSP Group specializes in commercial contracting, creating a collaborative and inclusive environment. RSP promises to keep your project on budget and on schedule. We work within your timeline to take the burden of renovation off your plate.
Offering highly rated remodeling and additional features to your home, RSP is completely licensed and insured, providing trust to complete quality home improvement. We even have a vetted list of subcontractors thanks to decades of service.
Are you ready to begin your renovation? Do you still have questions about remodeling tips? Reach out to RSP Group today for any inquiries regarding energy-efficient home upgrades and more.
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