Replacing windows or opting for more efficient lighting are two common renovations aimed at saving energy and lowering energy bills. Savings are undoubtedly the main reason why the construction of sustainable homes is growing or why we undertake 'sustainable' renovations.
In any case, we must not lose sight of the fact that there are options that make our home healthier, such as using ecological paints or choosing a garden with species that are suitable for the climate in which we live, for example.
What is a sustainable renovation?
Essentially, an eco-friendly renovation is one that uses recycled materials or implements techniques, solutions, technologies, or systems that help save energy, reducing environmental impact while simultaneously improving the home's functionality and aesthetics. Some examples of this type of renovation include installing solar panels, improving insulation, installing motion sensors so lights only turn on when needed, or using recycled materials. In addition to respecting the environment and prioritizing sustainability, a sustainable renovation will improve the home's comfort and increase its value.
What materials are best for a sustainable renovation?
The first step is to make use of existing materials whenever possible. Regarding sustainable materials, hempcrete (hemp concrete) deserves mention: a mixture of hemp fibers and lime with excellent insulating properties; bamboo (sustainable due to its rapid growth); and FSC-certified wood, which is sustainably sourced. Furthermore, eco-friendly paints, which are free of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and therefore do not emit toxic substances, are also recommended for eco-conscious renovations.
Solar panels and biomass: choose renewable energy
Installing solar panels is a good idea, but the initial investment is significant (it can be around €10,000 for a home with average consumption). Solar panels are a fantastic option to complement other eco-friendly solutions, such as biomass boilers, pellet boilers (which reduce CO₂ emissions), or solutions like air source heat pumps.
Proper insulation will make your home more sustainable
Windows are undoubtedly the most effective home improvement project for achieving thermal and acoustic insulation. For a three-bedroom apartment of around 90 square meters, the investment will be around €10,000, but the savings on the gas bill will be around 40%. Generally, it's advisable to insulate the home from the outside using an External Thermal Insulation Composite System (ETICS). This eliminates thermal bridges and reduces heat loss by up to 25%. Another advantage is that no construction work is needed, and no square footage is lost.
Small renovations and sustainable changes to enjoy an "eco-friendly" home
Timers and motion sensors, thermostats that regulate temperature, dual-flush toilets, faucet aerators, LED lighting: all these small, sustainable changes or renovations achieve significant savings by preventing waste in electricity and water consumption. LED bulbs, for example, have a longer lifespan than traditional bulbs and consume up to 75% less energy. The same is true for aerators, which, without reducing water pressure, do reduce water consumption. We can also use energy-efficient appliances, labeled with the letter A (formerly A+++).
In the garden, native plants to save water
An ecological garden is one that features native species, which are best adapted to the local climate and require less water to survive. For example, in the central part of the Iberian Peninsula, with its continental climate (hot summers, cold winters, and little rainfall), it's best to avoid lawns and instead use plants like sage, rockrose, or lavender, and shrubs like abelia, among others.
