The Outhouse-an eco-friendly solution but perhaps not a family-friendly one!
Are you planning a bathroom remodel this year? If so, “go green.” Eco-friendly design is not a passing trend. You’ll save money on your energy bills and create value at resale too.
Here are some tips:
Bathrooms are water guzzlers. To minimize water consumption, choose sensory-activated faucets and low-flow toilets. Low-flow toilets received a bad rap when they were first introduced, but the technology has greatly improved. Instant efficiency is achieved when you replace your current toilet, which uses five gallons of water per flush with a dual flush, which use a maximum of 1.6 gallons.
As for floors, linoleum (yes, it is eco-friendly) and tile are good options. For vanity tops, natural stone is beautiful and green. There is a wide selection from which to choose, from the ubiquitous granite to a quartz composite know as engineered stone. For shower and tub tile, consider the fabulously juicy colors of recycled glass tiles. Be sure to use non-toxic tile sealants and caulking.
Most cabinets are made of wood that contains urea-formaldehyde, which can release harmful chemicals (VOC’s or volatile organic compounds) into your home for years after installation. The alternatives are solid wood cabinets or wood substitutes such as wheatboard, formaldehyde-free pressboard, or MDF (medium density fiber board.) Finish the cabinets with a non-toxic stain or paint.
As for lighting, fluorescent bulbs are the energy-efficient standard, but a bit harsh for the entire bathroom. Consider fluorescent light for general lighting and install halogens adjacent to the mirror and over the sink. Adding dimmer switches to existing light fixtures is an easy-to-install energy saver too.
