The great thing about sustainable home-improvement projects is that they are good for the planet and save you money in the long run. Here are 6 home-improvement projects that are easy to implement and help you make a positive impact on the environment.

1. Install high-quality cellulose insulation in your attic

Extremely high temperatures have been wreaking havoc all over the world, and especially in Texas. Making sure your home has good insulation is key to keeping your energy bills low and reducing your carbon footprint. Not only that, but cellulose insulation is made of recycled materials, takes less energy to produce than other insulation materials, and you can get a tax credit for improving it or installing it in your home. 

2. Tankless water heater

Instead of using energy to constantly heat many gallons of water that you aren’t even using, replace your old water heater with a tankless model. These water heaters work on-demand, meaning you’ll never run out of hot water and you won’t be using a lot of energy to keep water hot when you don’t need it. 

3. Solar panels

This project can be costly up front, but the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 stipulates a 30% tax credit for green energy projects, and that includes rooftop solar panels. That means if you spent $20,000 this year installing solar panels, you’d get a $6,000 credit when you file your taxes next year. The benefits of solar panels are many, but two of the most important are decreased carbon emissions and savings on your electricity bills.

4. Drought-resistant landscaping

Everyone loves a nice green lawn, but with concerns about water supply and extreme summer temperatures in many parts of the country, hardy plants, shrubs, and trees are a smarter choice. Native plants and plants that don’t require a lot of watering will save you time and money. Investing in drought resistant trees that are strategically planted around your property has the added bonus of creating shade and cooling your house and your yard.

5. Switch to a steel front door

There are several reasons why steel doors are a great environmentally-friendly choice. One is that steel is endlessly recyclable. It’s one of the most commonly recycled metals in the world, so your steel door is most likely made from recycled materials. They are also highly durable and last for years with no rotting or warping. Steel doors are more airtight than other types of doors, which makes them more energy efficient.

6. Programmable thermostat

Up to 50% of energy costs in a home come from heating and cooling, so buying and installing a programmable thermostat is a no-brainer. Programmable thermostats aren’t too expensive to buy and install (getting one might put you out between $150-$190) and they help your HVAC system run more efficiently. The idea is that you figure out when your energy needs are lowest (at night, for example) and then set the thermostat accordingly. 

Whether you’re concerned about climate change and want to protect the planet or you’re just looking to save some money, these strategies will help get you started.

If you qualify, our professionals can also help you get the ball rolling with a free home energy inspection to assess the quality of your current insulation and make suggestions for improvements. Fill out our online form to schedule a visit.