In recent years, falling home values and skyrocketing energy costs have inspired homeowners to find ways to reduce energy use and maximize their investments. Using eco-friendly building materials in your home improvement project is one option that can help conserve resources, improve indoor air quality, and increase the value of your home.

For example, proper insulation can save up to 50% of the energy used for heating and cooling. Going one step further and choosing non-toxic insulation made from recycled cotton, wool or formaldehyde-free fiberglass, keeps resources out of the landfill and harmful chemicals out of your lungs.

Eco-friendly materials can also increase the value of your home.

Recent studies in Seattle and elsewhere have found that eco-friendly and energy efficient homes sold for as much as 8.5% more than other homes. In addition, homes receiving official environmental certification by a third party group such as the U.S. Green Building Council sold for as much as 25% more than regular homes.

Although some environmental building practices may be more expensive, many building professionals believe that the lower utility bills and increased home value offset those higher up-front costs.

Energy Upgrade California offers energy efficiency upgrade packages tailored to your specific needs. Visit your local county pages to find out more about steps you can take to conserve natural resources and increase the value of your home.

Excerpt: https://energyupgradeca.org/news/go_green_get_green-105