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Scott Hunt, a 45-year-old water specialist that grew up during a severe drought in Australia, uses some very cool materials to turn his 1,700 square-foot home into an energy and water saving paradise. During his transformation, Greenovate is there to watch his $30,000 renovation unfold (if he can stay within his planned budget!). A few of the materials Hunt uses makes it to our list of top 5 cool eco materials for homes.
- Our first cool eco material is low/no VOC paint. After a mishap or two, he chooses to repaint the entire house -- Hunt and his friends decide to use a low/no VOC paint. This reduces the amount of VOC's that are found in many households, which is beneficial to air quality and health. Scientific studies have linked VOC's to an array of negative health ailments.
- >The paint outside has a ceramic additive mixed into the paint. Smart move, considering it was developed and used by NASA! This additive reflects heat, from inside or out, to reduce heating and cooling costs. It even acts as a sound insulator and fire retardant. There are also a number of paints and other additives that can be used to make your home more efficient.
- Helping your home keep its cool (or warmth) isn't as difficult as some would believe. Another fantastic way to do this is with effective insulation. We won't try to reinvent the wheel here, because TreeHugger has covered some of the top green insulation options in pretty good detail, from recycled paper to denim insulation.
- Opting for a green countertop can create a beautiful centerpiece for your kitchen, and saves on much needed resources. There are many to choose from that can fit in with any style you may be shooting for.
- Our fifth top eco materials for homes isn't something you would normally think of, and it isn't a material used much inside your house. When you're building your home, or working on your curb appeal, consider concrete for your driveways versus any kind of asphalt. It's cooler, uses basic materials, lasts for years, and can be recycled!
Hankering for a home makeover? Manifest your green American Dream with tips from Planet Green TV's Greenovate.
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