Going for sustainable options in your bathroom remodeling project can help the planet and also provide you with utility savings. With an eco-friendly bathroom, you can save water, conserve energy and reduce pollution. Here are tips to help you design an environmentally friendly bathroom.
Maintain Good Indoor Air Quality
The bathroom is the most humid room in your house, and it needs sufficient ventilation to maintain fresh and clean air. Excessive humidity encourages mold and mildew growth, which can cause health concerns. Installing an energy-efficient ventilation fan should be enough to control moisture levels in your bathroom.
Choose Energy-Efficient Lighting
Lighting is something you need to consider in any home remodeling project. While good lighting is essential in the bathroom, it doesn’t have to mean higher energy costs. The most eco-friendly artificial lighting option you have is LED lighting. LEDs are not just energy-efficient, they also last up to 40 times longer than incandescent bulbs, giving you more savings in the long run.
The best way to reduce energy costs is by maximizing natural light. You can add more windows or a skylight in your bathroom. Consider adding a large mirror to open up your space and make it brighter.
Be Smart When Choosing Fixtures
Bathtubs use around 70 gallons of water while a five-minute shower takes only 10 to 25 gallons. If possible, skip the tub for a water-saving shower. Choosing a low-flow showerhead can also help to reduce your utility costs. Low-flow fixtures utilize high pressure to release less water with more impact. With these fixtures, you can have a quality shower experience without using more water than needed.
Opt for Sustainable Flooring Options
Your flooring material should be durable enough to stand up to excessive moisture, foot traffic and spills. Terrazzo flooring, available in various styles and colors, is known for its appeal and durability. This material naturally resists stains and bacteria, helping maintain its polished look.
One of the greenest flooring options for bathrooms is glass tile. This material is 100 percent recyclable and comes in a wide range of shades to complement any bathroom. It’s also easy to maintain and naturally mold-, mildew- and stain-resistant.
Another option you should consider for bathroom flooring is natural stone. It’s strong, low-maintenance and available in many different textures, colors and shapes.
Design Your Dream Home With DreamMaker
DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Wilmington is one of North Carolina’s most well-respected home renovation contractors. Give us a call at (910) 212-5889 or fill out our contact form to reach our design experts and start a conversation!
