Make Green Living Easy: 5 (Simple!) DIY Projects for Your Home

Are you concerned about the environment? There are a number of things you can do at home to help the Earth and save money at the same time. However, many people shy away from “do it yourself” projects because they are concerned about the effort and skill needed to successfully complete the job. DIY home improvement does not have to be difficult. These five ideas are perfect weekend jobs that even newcomers can dig into.

1. Change the Air Filter

Did you know the HVAC air filter needs to be changed on a monthly basis? When the filter is dirty, it impedes air flow, making your system work harder than it needs to. Replacing the filter, then, helps you save money each month and may extend the longevity of your system as well. At the very least, make sure to put in a new air filter every three months if you can’t get to it on a monthly basis.

2. Replace Your Faucet aerators and Showerheads

Pick up high efficiency faucet aerators and showerheads at your local hardware store, and install them in your home. Both of these solutions are simple and effective. Installing an efficient showerhead is very simple to do. Check out that link for a tutorial, the tools you’ll need, and the things to think about. Installing a high efficiency faucet aerator is also very easy, and often doesn’t even require a tool. Keep your old fixtures in a bathroom furniture unit

3. Update with Green Flooring

Are you ready to get rid of your stained carpets? Hardwood floors look great. However, they are not the most eco-friendly option on the market. There are a lot of materials that can improve the appearance of your home but that are not a burden on the environment. For example, bamboo flooring is all natural. It holds up well over time, and it looks great. Stone flooring is another option. Simple to clean, it is also relatively easy to install. Finally, look into recycled glass tiles as well. They can really add a colorful touch to any interior space.

4. Install Weather Stripping

Homes can lose a lot of energy around the windows and doors. Weather stripping is the simple solution to that problem. It does not cost a lot of money, and you only need a few hours to install it. The difference it makes, however, is substantial.

5. Paint!

Painting is an inexpensive (and easy!) way to completely change the look and feel of your home. With a bit of prep work, you should be able to knock out several rooms over the course of a weekend. Seek out nontoxic paint to cut back on indoor air pollution. Nontoxic products also reduce the number of contaminants that wind up in landfills.

“Do it yourself” projects sound intimidating, but it is important to remember that there are a lot of inexpensive, quick tweaks you can make around the house that will help the planet and your wallet. Set aside a weekend to see what you can accomplish in your home!

This post was supported by BathAndShower.com