Eco-Friendly Materials

By Christopher Wittmann, CR

Remodeling your home to contain eco-friendly materials not only saves the Earth, but it also aids in more efficient heating and cooling, lowered utility bills, and increased resale values. Christopher Wittmann, CR, an exterior product specialist with Callen, lists the top eco-friendly products for home improvement.

“Eco-friendly materials not only keep your family safe from toxins, but also reduce harm to the environment and saves energy,” said Christopher. “If it’s a product that will only be on the house for a short period of time, they’re more likely to end up in the landfills, unable to break down. These materials aren’t always based on what they’re made of, but how sustainable they are and how long they will be in place in your house.”

The key component in reducing this activity is to review materials that are safe for the environment in the first place, and at a level of quality that won’t have to be frequently replaced. When you’re planning your remodel, make sure you inspect the materials being used to be sure they’re eco-friendly.

1. Low or Non-VOC Products

Certain paints, adhesives, caulks and flooring materials contain volatile organic compounds (VOC’s). VOC’s, such as formaldehyde, can leak out over time and pose a health hazard. Examples of low or non-VOC materials include water-based wood finishes, cork or bamboo flooring, countertops made of recycled materials, and exterior composite materials such as fiber cement siding.

2. Vinyl Products

“Products made with plasticizers such as certain flooring materials, vinyl siding, and windows are made with chemicals that can ‘off-gas’ or emit small amounts of vinyl chloride, a known carcinogen in humans,” Christopher said. “There is enough third-party information available supporting this, resulting in consumers reviewing other options that are safer for their family and their home.”

3. High-Performance Windows

Windows and patio doors can let in a lot of natural light, but they can also let out a lot of wasted heating and cooling energy at the same time. “In our zone, double-pane windows with insulated, low-emissivity, or ‘Low-E’ glass will have a higher return on investment by saving more energy in heating and cooling,” said Christopher. “Window frames made with high quality wood or fiberglass won’t expand and contract in hot and cold temperatures, resulting in longer-preserved insulation performance and sustainability. These higher quality window products along with the recommended installation methods will also reduce the likelihood that they will be replaced prematurely.”

4. Insulation, Air Sealing and Ventilation

“Over 80% of houses are under-insulated. While poor-performing doors and windows account for some of the energy loss, attics, walls, and floors with poor insulation accounts for the majority of this deficit,” Christopher said. “In addition to ensuring that our homes are properly insulated, air sealing, or restricting the passage of air through leaks in the walls, floor, and ceilings, will result in less energy-use and money spent in heating or cooling the home.”

5. Low-Voltage/LED/Solar Lighting

Christopher explained that while outdoor spotlights are nice for lighting up the yard, they use a lot of unnecessary energy. “You waste a lot of energy by leaving your spotlights on all night,” he said. “If truly necessary, install motion sensors. The best way to save energy and the environment is with LED and solar lights.”

Callen’s exterior product specialists can assist you in installing products that are good for the environment. Call Callen, the leading remodeling company in Brookfield, for tips on how to get started.