Sustainable House Renovations
Image Source: Unsplash

Now, more than ever, people have a focus on sustainability. Environmental awareness has become a huge area of importance in the world of business, with major corporations taking initiative to reduce energy consumption and waste.

But, sustainability is just as important on a small scale. About 35% of the energy homes use is wasted each year, mostly from electricity. That energy waste can lead to big problems for future generations. With topics of climate change, overflowing landfills, and polluted oceans becoming more prominent, everyone must do their part to be more sustainable.

Thankfully, that can be as easy as making better choices during a home renovation, including choosing the right paint.

Yes, installing items like solar panels and utilizing reusable materials can make a big difference. But, one of the best things you can do is to make sustainable, environmentally-friendly choices for things you were already going to use, anyway. There is always a way to make your renovation project “greener”, even with paint.

Not sure how the paint you choose could have an energy-efficient impact on your home? Let’s take a closer look. 

How Painting Can Save Energy

There are many benefits to painting when you’re doing a home renovation or remodel. It’s a great way to future-proof your home and give it a facelift. But, depending on the paint you choose, it can also save energy, even if it’s in a roundabout way.

We’ll talk more about sustainable paint efforts in the next section. But, even if you want to go with a standard paint or use up a gallon you already have, consider the color. Choosing a lighter color will help to brighten any room, which can save you money on lighting and waste less energy. That can be especially helpful in rooms that are more “closed off” and darker, like a bedroom. Create a clean and contemporary bedroom look with paint is possible when you use colors like: 
  • White
  • Light gray
  • Soft pink
  • Light blue
Most people focus on the walls when they’re painting a room. But, painting your ceilings can also help to save energy. Darker colors attract light and absorb it. Painting your ceilings a lighter color will disperse the natural light in the room much better, as well as artificial lighting, so you’ll be able to use less of it.


It’s also important to consider how you’ll paint your home. Machines like paint sprayers can make your work go a lot faster, but depending on how they are powered, they could be using a lot of electricity, or even giving off fumes if they utilize gas. Opt for brushes and rollers, instead.
Is There Really Sustainable Paint?

Yes, sustainable paint exists, and it does a great job with coverage and color-matching. The most important thing you can do when it comes to purchasing paint is to see how upfront the company is about its ingredients. Many paint companies still don’t list the ingredients of their paint, but it is becoming a more common practice as people want to make sure they’re using a product they feel good about.


Today, paint can be made from a variety of sustainable ingredients, including those that are: 
  • Recycled
  • Natural
  • Bio-based
Some companies combine recycled paint with a new product, while others use completely natural ingredients. One paint company, Unearthed Paints, uses a variety of natural materials to create their paints and finishes, including clay, lime, and chalk.

Most sustainable paint brands are happy to list out their ingredients and promote the fact that they are using sustainable materials. If you truly want to make your paint job as sustainable as possible, choosing one of these paints is the way to go. 

Making More Sustainable Choices With Home Renovations

Typically, painting is only one part of a home renovation job. If you’re thinking about updating your house with paint, you’re probably considering other projects, too. The good news? You can make your entire house renovation sustainable and more environmentally-friendly.

Before you do anything, be aware that projects like tearing down walls and stripping away drywall could release harmful toxins into the air, including asbestos. If your home was built in the 1970s or before, it’s best to know how to spot asbestos before it gets in your lungs. Asbestos exposure can lead to respiratory issues and even an increased risk of mesothelioma.

Once you know you’re safe to move forward with your home projects, some of the easiest renovations you can do save energy at home include:
  • Using recycled materials
  • Installing a low-flow toilet and showerhead
  • Choose bamboo flooring for a replacement
  • Switch to LED light bulbs
  • Install a programmable thermostat
  • Air-seal your home
You can also opt for more energy-efficient appliances if you want to do a complete renovation. Not only will making these switches lower your utility bills, but you’ll be amazed at how much less electricity you’re using every month.

Paint might seem like a small thing when it comes to house renovations. But, as you can see, the kind you choose and the colors you use can make a big difference. Keep that in mind if you’re doing any kind of remodeling, and make your efforts as sustainable as possible.