Guest post by Fay D. Wein
A green bathroom remodel is more than just using a few eco-friendly materials.
Consider both the immediate and the lasting impact of each of your choices.
Short-term green choices prevent immediate negative impact on the plant, while long-term
choices ensure that moisture and daily cleaning don’t result in an eco nightmare down the road.
“A green bathroom remodel is
more than just using a few
eco-friendly materials.
Consider both the immediate
and the lasting impact
of each of your choices.“
#1. Manage the Moisture
There’s nothing environmentally friendly about mold and mildew in the bathroom.
Not only does it often require harmful chemicals to remove it, extensive mold damage
can damage walls and caulk, requiring frequent replacement of otherwise long-lasting materials.
Mold needs moisture to thrive, which is why it’s common in the bathroom.
When remodeling, add a ventilation fan to your final design.
For the cost of a small amount of electricity, the fan will move the moisture out of your bathroom
and home.
The environmental impact of running a fan is much less than that of of frequent mold removal.
#2. Make It About Water Savings
The bathroom is responsible for 64 percent of the average home’s water use, so cutting back usage
there is one of the most eco-friendly choices you can make.
The best ways to plan for water usage savings with a remodel are:
*Install a low-flow shower head.
You get the same water pressure, but use up to 7 gallons less water per minute.
*Make the toilet low-flow, too.
Newer water-wise toilets use less than half as much water as their standard counterparts.
*Switch to a tankless hot water heater.
Choose one which uses less energy and provides on demand hot water.
*Add faucet timers to the sink and shower.
These cut the flow after a set time, which means no more wasted water while you shave or brush your teeth.
#3. Go Green With Your Materials
Not all materials are created equal, especially from a green point of view.
“Take the time to source
sustainable materials that
fit both your budget and
your design goals.”
Green material options include:
*Recycled items-which help keep items out of landfills by giving them a new life.
Consider recycled glass tiles for the countertops and floors, recycled wood vanities and
cabinets, or refinishing instead of replacing the tub surround.
*Sustainable materials-which have less environmental impact in the long run.
Cork and bamboo are two popular sustainable materials, and cork’s antimicrobial
abilities make it a natural for the moist environment of the bathroom.
*Low-impact items-which are environmentally preferable because they don’t have
a major short- or long-term impact.
Items that you can recycle if you re-do the bathroom again in the future, such as glass tiles,
are one example of a low-impact item.
Choosing low-VOC paints, materials that don’t require chemical cleaning, and those produced
locally all result in a lower impact.
Conclusion
As you can see, both short-term and long-term planning is required if one is conscious about
making the planet a better place place to live in for ourselves and our families.
About the author
Fay D. Wein is a content and communication specialist at Glass Tile Oasis, an online retailer of inspired kitchen, bath and pool tile. Fay loves interior designing, blogging, and spending time with her family.
Are you considering a green bathroom remodel?
Have you already remodeled your bathroom in an eco-friendly manner?
Share your tips, experiences, thoughts and comments with us.
Photos courtesy of Houzz.com
Photo source: Glass tile
Saving water is up-most on our minds in Ireland as we are facing water charges next month.Thanks for linking up to Pin Worthy Wednesday, I have pinned your post to the Pin Worthy Wednesday Pinterest Board.
Very informative post! There is much we can do to save both money and environment. And that without losing style and beauty. I really like your tips about water saving and the importance of considering long vs short term impacts. I am stopping by from the Thursday Favorite Things Blog Hop. Pinned this.
We live as green as possible in our home. Conserving water is on out top ten list. Love this post. Thank you for sharing at the Thursday Favorite Things blog hop xo
Material and budget are the two topmost things on which any remodeling project depends. Determine what you can really afford and this will make it easier for you to decide what to replace. Going green is good for both environment and you too. Green products function better, looks good, generate low utility bills and are chemical free. So always keep an eco-friendly approach while doing remodeling.
Great ideas. I’ve been wanting to switch to a tankless water heater… I’ve heard great things. Thanks for linking up at #SustainableSundays!
Hi Danielle,
Yes, I have been considering it as a replacement option. I’m so glad you shared your thoughts with us. We appreciate it.