Rising energy costs and a slow residential resale market throughout most of the United States make green remodeling a better option for most people than buying a new home. But simply hiring a remodeling contractor to install green building materials and energy-saving appliances does not guarantee that your new kitchen or master suite will be energy-efficient and eco-friendly.
Are your expectations realistic?
Homeowners often face sticker shock at the cost of remodeling. For example, in Hawaii, where the cost of materials is higher because of shipping and taxes, a simple kitchen remodel that includes replacing cabinets and counter tops, and installing high-end appliances can easily cost more than $40,000 just for materials.
Sustainable materials can also cost more than their standard counterparts. For example, things like concrete countertops, LED lighting, reclaimed wood flooring, heat-reflective exterior coatings and closed-cell spray foam insulation (SPF) have higher upfront costs associated with them, but represent good value when long-term savings and life-cycle analysis is taken into consideration.
Are green building options affordable?
Take a practical approach. First ask what makes sense for your particular family and the way you live. For example, lower cost options to decrease air conditioning expense could include installing energy-efficient windows, maximizing cross ventilation or replacing a dark-colored roof that absorbs heat with a cooler white roof that reflects heat.