Think of your home as you would a physical entity. It needs to be in good condition to function properly, and it needs to be able to withstand natural and human-induced stressors. Your home should be able to withstand natural disasters, such as earthquakes and floods, and everyday stresses, such as wear and tear, pests, and deteriorative elements. A healthy home is well-maintained and can withstand the test of time. Here are ways to create a low-maintenance home.
Install Energy-Efficient Appliances
The cost of installing energy-efficient appliances, such as refrigerators, dishwashers and furnaces, can amount to more than buying a brand new appliance. However, it will pay off in the long run. In addition to saving money on power bills and disposing of old appliances that may have toxic chemicals, you will also reduce your environmental footprint by reducing greenhouse gasses and recycling old products for various purposes (such as the production of new items).
Use Non-Toxic Paint and Decorations
When painting interior walls, choose non-toxic paints that do not contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs). When purchasing kitchen and bathroom cleaning products, look for those free of chemicals such as phthalates, chlorine and triclosan. You should also add air purifiers to these rooms.
Use Low-Maintenance Housing Materials
Durable and low maintenance materials pay off. For example, if you are building a new home opt for vinyl siding rather than wood that needs to be repainted and taken care of. The right roofing material can be easier to maintain as well.
Photo by Jacobs Ladder Siding, Roofing, Windows & Painting
Repair Items as Soon as You Notice a Problem
This is easier said than done, but it is much better than waiting to correct things until they are out of control. For example, if a gutter breaks when it rains, fix the problem right away rather than waiting for more parts to break or water to damage other things around the house, such as your home’s foundation and electrical wiring. Do not allow things to reach an advanced stage; otherwise, you will need to spend more money fixing them later on down the road.
Photo by Elizabeth Herrmann architecture + design
Use Natural Products
Natural wood chips, mulch, and biodegradable potting soil are some examples of products that can be used in your yard to create an environment where plants can grow without toxic chemicals. These products provide nutrients to the soil and help reduce the need for fertilizer and pesticides. Bio-based paints and paints made from bio-based materials are also very low maintenance products that do not require constant touching up.
Select Flooring Materials Wisely
There are many environmentally-friendly flooring materials, such as bamboo and cork floors, ceramic tiles, linoleum, and hardwood floors. Choose the least toxic options that are easy to clean and maintain; for example, laminate flooring because it is easier to clean than hardwood floors.
Photo by Floor Coverings International of Charleston
Low-maintenance homes are more energy-efficient and cost-efficient. By installing energy-efficient appliances, using non-toxic paint and decorations, repairing things as soon as you notice a problem, and using natural products, your home will be ready for whatever the outside world has to throw at you.