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HOME IMPROVEMENTS 23<br />
Want to make your home more sustainable – here<br />
are 10 Sustainable Home Improvements top tips<br />
In today’s environmentally conscious world, making sustainable choices for<br />
our homes isn’t just a trend; it’s a necessity. This was backed up by a survey<br />
conducted by Centrica last year that showed 55% of people thought we<br />
should be making our homes more sustainable and 47% had already taken<br />
steps to do this.<br />
From reducing energy consumption to minimising waste, every small change<br />
contributes to a greener, more eco-friendly lifestyle. As experts in windows,<br />
doors, and conservatories, Glevum understands the importance of sustainable<br />
living. In this blog post, we’ll explore ten actionable steps you can take to make<br />
your home more sustainable, with a focus on energy efficiency, conservation,<br />
and eco-friendly practices. There is also the happy coincidence that several of<br />
these also save you money as well saving the planet.<br />
1. Energy-Efficient Windows<br />
You would of course expect this to be first on the list. Investing in energy-efficient windows can<br />
significantly reduce heat loss during winter and minimise heat gain in summer. This of course<br />
then reduces the need for heating and cooling and cuts your energy bills. They also come with<br />
the added benefits of aesthetic appeal, better sound-proofing and enhanced security.<br />
2. Insulation Upgrades<br />
Improving insulation throughout your home, including walls, floors, and attics, helps maintain<br />
a comfortable indoor temperature year-round while lowering energy consumption. Consider<br />
eco-friendly insulation materials like cellulose, wool, or recycled fiberglass for a sustainable<br />
option.<br />
3. Solar Panels Installation<br />
Harnessing solar energy through photovoltaic (PV) panels not only reduces your reliance on<br />
grid electricity but also lowers your carbon footprint. Explore options for solar panel installation<br />
on your roof or in your garden to generate clean, renewable energy for your home.<br />
9. Smart Home Technology<br />
Embrace smart home technology to optimise energy usage and enhance convenience. From<br />
programmable thermostats to smart lighting systems, these innovative solutions help you<br />
monitor and control energy consumption for a more sustainable lifestyle. They are also easy<br />
to install and use – with lots of mobile phone-controlled systems like Kasa with their bulbs<br />
and plugs.<br />
10. Make full use of the recycling facilities available to you<br />
Most of us have either weekly or fortnightly recycling collections for food waste, plastics,<br />
bottles, tins, cardboard, and garden waste. Are you recycling as much as you can though<br />
– old furniture, clothes, books, or toys can go to charity shops and there are local drop-off<br />
points in many supermarket car parks and door-to-door collections of clothes for charities.<br />
By implementing these ten sustainable home improvements, you can create an eco-friendlier<br />
and energy-efficient living environment for yourself and future generations. At Glevum<br />
Windows, Doors, and Conservatories, we’re committed to helping homeowners make<br />
environmentally responsible choices for their homes. Contact us today to find out about our<br />
stylish range of energy efficient UPVC and aluminium windows and doors. Call us on 0800<br />
332255 or visit www.glevum.co.uk.<br />
Together, let’s build a greener tomorrow, one home at a time – we can all play our part.<br />
4. Energy-Efficient Appliances<br />
Upgrade old, energy-guzzling appliances with high-efficiency models bearing the ENERGY<br />
STAR label. From refrigerators to washing machines, energy-efficient appliances consume less<br />
electricity, saving you money on utility bills while benefiting the environment. For example,<br />
something as simple as an energy efficient kettle can save 20% of energy use compared with an<br />
older less efficient model – so these improvements don’t have to costs the earth (pun intended).<br />
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Also though it is crucial you think about how you use these appliances for – how long, how full<br />
and at what temperature, in certain cases.<br />
5. Water Conservation Measures<br />
Implement water-saving fixtures such as low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads to minimise<br />
water wastage. Additionally, consider collecting rainwater for watering the garden or installing<br />
a greywater recycling system to reuse water from sinks and showers. If you switch to being<br />
charged by your water usage via a smart meter rather than annual rates – you could save around<br />
£150 or benefit even more if you reduce your usage.<br />
6. Sustainable Flooring Choices<br />
Opt for eco-friendly flooring materials like bamboo, cork, reclaimed wood, or recycled tiles to<br />
reduce the environmental impact of your home. These sustainable options not only look stylish<br />
but also promote responsible resource management.<br />
7. LED Lighting<br />
Replace traditional incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LED lights throughout your home.<br />
LED bulbs consume significantly less energy, last longer, and produce less heat, making them a<br />
sustainable lighting choice for indoor and outdoor spaces. The UK Government own estimates<br />
show that LEDs use up to 90% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than traditional<br />
incandescent bulbs.<br />
8. Eco-Friendly Landscaping<br />
Transform your outdoor space into a sustainable oasis by incorporating native plants, droughtresistant<br />
landscaping, and permeable surfaces. These eco-friendly landscaping practices<br />
conserve water, promote biodiversity, and enhance curb appeal. When you have your garden<br />
picture perfect maybe you might want to consider a Conservatory allowing you to enjoy your<br />
garden all year round.