Kitchener Handyman: Eco-Friendly Kitchen Renovation Ideas!

Eco-friendliness is a concern for many homeowners, as it can drastically improve energy efficiency. Between reducing energy costs and decreasing your personal carbon footprint, prioritizing sustainability is a great investment. Of course, remodelling with the environment in mind can be more challenging than it seems, as many companies greenwash their products to appear eco-friendly without actually making a positive impact. Fortunately, kitchen renovation contractors in Kitchener can recommend the best materials and techniques to transform your home into a sustainable haven.

Eco-Friendly Tips From Kitchen Renovation Contractors

The kitchen is an essential part of any home, as it must be functional and comfortable for hosting. It also houses many appliances, including some of the most energy-consuming. If you want to improve your home’s energy efficiency but don’t want to deal with large-scale construction, focusing on the kitchen is a cost-efficient approach.

Additionally, upgrading your kitchen can boost your property value and make your home more appealing to future buyers. Even if you decide not to sell any time soon, your home will have more equity, allowing you to secure loans.

Of course, budgets often limit renovations, even if you can secure a generous home equity line of credit. To get the most out of your kitchen upgrades, take a look at these affordable suggestions from kitchen renovation contractors in Kitchener. Although relatively minor changes, their return on investment is impressive.

Opt for Sustainable Flooring

Some flooring materials have a smaller impact on the environment than others. For the kitchen, consider the following options:

• Engineered hardwood
• Linoleum
• Cork
• Bamboo

Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances

Appliances can consume a huge amount of energy, especially if they’re older models. You can save money by replacing the following with Energy Star-approved upgrades:

• Dishwasher
• Oven
• Freezer

Your fridge is especially important, as it runs continually. Smart refrigerators optimize cooling by measuring internal temperature and tracking how often you open the door.

Updating smaller but infrequently used appliances can also make an impact. Today’s coffee makers, microwaves and toasters are much more efficient than their counterparts from a few years ago.

Update the Windows

Windows are essential for a comfortable space, as they let in energy- and mood-boosting natural light. However, they’re also a weak point in your home’s installation. Older frames may no longer be airtight, allowing in outside air, pollen, bugs and dust.

Fortunately, kitchen renovation contractors can fix or replace warped frames and add weather stripping to improve energy efficiency. They can even replace the panes with better-insulated glass to reduce the heat sink.

Switch Out the Light Bulbs

Did you know your choice of light bulbs makes a huge difference in energy use? Incandescent bulbs were once standard, but their efficiency is a ridiculous 10%. The rest of that electricity gets turned into heat, which can make a small room sweltering. Switching to CFL or LED lightbulbs means less time running the air conditioning and more money in your pocket.

CFL bulbs last about 8,500 hours and have an energy efficiency rate of 85%. LEDs last 25,000 hours and have the best rate at 90%. However, LEDs can be expensive, especially if you replace a bunch at once. If you can’t afford to do so, consider switching to CFL or replacing each bulb as it goes out.

If your kitchen has a high ceiling, consider hiring a handyman in Kitchener for the job. Contractors have the necessary equipment and training to accomplish this safely.

Free Estimates From Kitchen Renovation Contractors in Kitchener

Renovating your kitchen doesn’t have to be a daunting task, especially when you consider the countless eco-friendly options out there. Eco-friendly materials can transform your kitchen into a stylish and sustainable space without compromising on quality or functionality. And while it may require minimal additional effort, the benefits that come from investing in an eco-friendly kitchen are worth exploring. 

Before you search “affordable kitchen renovation contractors near me,” contact the professional kitchen renovation experts at Handyman Connection in Kitchener! With our expert knowledge and dedication to sustainability, you can create a beautiful and functional kitchen that lasts for many years to come.