Residential Homes & Sustainability – How Well Do They Match?

Sustainability is the name of the game in many areas around the world at the moment. It’s not hard to see why. If something isn’t sustainable, then by definition it cannot last into the future forever. Sustainability means being able to indefinitely utilize an outcome well, such as by making your garden self-sufficient, recycling materials you use, and limiting your waste. Note that you don’t have to be 100% sustainable in all things to make great strides towards sustainability, as with most things, never letting perfect be the enemy of good is an essential ideal.

However, even the most ardent eco-warrior can find it hard to know exactly how to structure their living situation, and that of their family, outside of recycling, limiting energy usage, and being more attentive to the needs of the moment (such as limiting hosepipe usage in anticipation of a possible drought coming in the UK). With that in mind, you may consider some of the following advice for improving your sustainability in the best way:

Reclaimed Wood

Of course, reclaiming materials to be used again is always sustainable. Yet it’s important to notice that while some materials can be reclaimed, the most common of these is certainly wood. For instance, using rustic scaffold boards as excellent shelving units can make a big difference to not only how natural your home looks, but helps that wood avoid being scrapped. This is one of the rare win-wins when it comes to home design, as materials can be used, treated and varnished, providing you perfect functionality and design, while also reworking an essential material from now into the future.

Insulation & Windows

The more you improve your insulation, the better you will be able to keep hold of the heat in your home and the less energy you need to use from your radiators or oil-based central heating. With proper foam insulation and roofing felt, you’ll be most of the way there. With a great investment, this can last for years and even decades. We’d also recommend you consider the strength and seal of your window fixtures, as this is often the most common area where heat can leak if your windows are old or not fitted with modern glass.

Renewable Energies

Solar panels are becoming cheaper all the time, which is why so many companies are often renewable energy installations that may pay for themselves in twelve to fourteen years time. That in itself can be a great investment, while also lessening your demand from the local power grid. After all, the sun is perhaps one of the most sustainable resources we have, as long as you use its power within the next five billion years or so. We hope that doesn’t come across as too assumptive.

With this advice, you’re certain to match your residential homes with sustainability in the best way. On top of that, you may consider keeping a home garden, using log burning stone alternatives, and shopping local for home materials where possible.