When most people hear the word "remodel," especially with terms like "green," "sustainable" or "eco-friendly" tacked on, they also hear the ca-ching! of cash registers. It's easy to put off projects when you're on a budget, but now it's time to put those excuses out of mind. These tips will help you save $$ without cutting corners.
1. Plan Ahead
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When you're inspired to get started on your remodeling project, it's tempting to run out to the nearest home improvement store and stock up on all the supplies you need. Perhaps the feeling is akin to buying school supplies in anticipation of the new school year. However, if you start buying without a plan, you'll likely end up with more than you actually need. Save money by using online calculators to determine exactly how much paint, flooring or other materials you need to cover large surfaces. Also, save those receipts so you can get a refund for your leftovers, if you have any.
2. Buy Second Hand
There's no need to purchase all new materials for your remodel. Peruse your local architectural salvage yards to score vintage wood floorboards, windows and doors on the cheap. They have so much character, and you'll have the peace of mind that you've kept these materials out of the landfill and provided them with a second life in your home. Are there are any elements of your home that you plan to do away with? Sell them back to the salvage yard or strike up a deal.
3. Rent or Borrow
Some hardcore DIYers boast an impressive stockpile of tools and gadgets. The rest of us are lucky to have a basic tool box. Don't waste your money on buying fancy equipment; it's possible to rent or borrow just about everything you need to complete your project. Ask handy friends and neighbors to borrow sanders, drills or tablesaws. For larger projects such as refinishing your wood floors, machines like drum sanders can be rented from local companies by the hour or for the day. You'll end up paying a fraction of the cost that you would spend on new tools that you might never use again.
4. Go for Impact
Those of us on a budget can't afford to tackle an entire green home remodel, so we should just focus our efforts on one or two projects that really make an impact. If your energy bill is high, invest in insulation for your roof and pipes and consider upgrading your windows to new, energy-efficient models. Others choose to make aesthetics the focus of their renovation project. Rather than buying expensive countertops for your kitchen, spend your money on new or salvaged eco-friendly flooring for your entire home. And remember, a few cans of paint can go a long way for cheap and completely transform a space.
5. Focus on Saving Energy
If you're on a really tight budget, aesthethics may be low priority. Instead, focus on making a few small changes that will help you slash your energy and water bills so you can save your money for a larger scale renovation in the future. A few affordable but impactful changes include installing faucet aerators and low-flow showerheads, programmable thermostats, and insulating around the edges of your existing doors and windows to prevent leaks.