Top 7 Green Home Improvement Megatrends For 2013

Many homeowners today are concerned about the environment and keeping those concerns in mind as they consider taking on home improvement tasks. Since green home renovations and remodeling can offer long term benefits to homeowners, it has quickly become popular today. By beginning to follow some of the popular green megatrends, homeowners can save money, use less energy and avoid causing more harm to the environment. If you want to go green on your next home improvement project, here are a few of the top megatrends to consider for 2013.

1 – Energy Efficient Lighting

One of the biggest green home improvement trends this year is using energy efficient lighting. Lighting is essential in any room of the home and it can be used to change the look of a home without a large investment. Many homeowners are choosing to go with energy efficient light fixtures while making sure they switch over to energy efficient light bulbs as well. The addition of natural light is also part of this trend.

2 – Eco-Friendly Appliances

The addition of eco-friendly appliances to the home is another big trend popular with homeowners this year. Green appliances can be added to your kitchen, laundry room and other areas of the home. These appliances use less energy while still being available in various sizes and styles.

3 – Green Plumbing

Homeowners are also getting on board with green plumbing, which is another of the big green home improvement megatrends to follow in 2013. Green plumbing includes toilets, showers and faucets that are water efficient. These systems also include tankless water heaters. Homeowners are exploring certain green plumbing systems like solar options and gray water recovery as well.

4 – Green Flooring Options

When engaging in a home improvement project, green flooring options have become quite popular. Many different green flooring options are available. Bamboo flooring is one option that is a renewable resource. Marmoleum is another green flooring product, which is like linoleum, yet made out of raw materials. Certain types of wood flooring are eco-friendly choices as well, such as those that are harvested from forests that are well managed and that have renewable resources.

5 – Dual Pane Windows

Dual pane windows offer an eco-friendly option that has become a big trend recently. Even in warmer climates, dual pane windows offer better heating and cooling efficiency. Not only do they provide insulation, but they also have soundproofing qualities as well. Certain windows even qualify for certain credits and rebates.

6 – Low VOC Paint

One of the simplest way to improve a home is by adding a coat of paint. However, many paints contain VOCs that can cause respiratory problems and contribute to pollution. A popular trend for homeowners this year is using low VOC paint that provides the instant renewal wanted in a room while helping to save the planet at the same time.

7 – Solar Roof Panels

Last, solar panels are becoming an even hotter home improvement trend in 2013. While they have been increasing in popularity for the last few years, many utility companies are beginning to offer credits and rebates to homeowners that install them. Installation of solar panels can help save on electricity bills and in some cases, homeowners can sell electricity back to a utility company, making them even more cost effective.

Tauseef Hussain is a media blogger and writes for QS Supplies, the on-line store for designer bathrooms taps. You can follow and interact with Tauseef on twitter @usef4u