Green Restoration Practices: Sustainable methods and materials used in the restoration industry 

Green Restoration Practices: Sustainable methods and materials used in the restoration industry 

Green restoration is pretty much exactly what it sounds like: the process of bringing a home back to its original condition after a storm, but in ways that minimize environmental impact.

Not only are these methods better for the environment, but they generally involve safer, lower-toxicity materials. They may also have the benefit of being more energy-efficient in the long term, which can save homeowners money and reduce their carbon footprint.

In this article, we take a look at how green restoration takes place in practice.

The Core Principles of Green Restoration

There are a few priorities in the green restoration process that are important to understand. These are:

• Waste reduction
• Elimination of toxic materials
• Energy and water efficiency
• Indoor air quality protection

Each of these steps naturally involves its own subset of considerations. For example, waste reduction often depends on salvaging reusable materials that are structurally safe and sorting disaster debris to determine what can be recycled.

Low-toxicity materials can occupy many different categories. Often, this involves avoiding formaldehyde-based adhesives and using non-toxic antimicrobial treatments.

Energy and water efficiency can involve materials and systems better suited for modern energy requirements, such as energy-efficient HVAC and improved insulation.

Finally, indoor air quality considerations can include using low-emission tools during construction, HEPA filtration during cleanup, and similar measures.

All of this shows that green restoration is not a single method, but dozens of choices that add up to a safer, more environmentally conscious recovery process.

Water Damage: Green Water Damage Restoration in Practice

We described the philosophical tenets of green-based restoration. What does it look like in the case of a water intrusion event?

Sustainable-minded repair work will focus first on high-efficiency equipment like dehumidifiers and air movers that are designed to do their work while minimizing energy usage.

In a green restoration, there is also a higher priority placed on preservation over replacement where possible.

Finally, the microbial process may be approached differently for green-minded customers. Botanical or hydrogen peroxide-based antimicrobials tend to be much more environmentally safe than chlorine-based alternatives.

These factors contribute to a safer and more responsible restoration process.

Green Fire Restoration

Fire restoration can also be accomplished in a sustainable format. In this case, soot and smoke cleanup that reduces chemical waste as much as possible is an important first step.

Dry ice or soda blasting are common biodegradable media methods, while HEPA vacuum systems can take the place of more chemical-intensive cleaners.

Odor removal is another step that can have environmentally friendly alternatives, including hydroxyl generators that are generally safer than other products and carbon filtration systems.

Again, salvaging materials that can be reused is another effective way to reduce the environmental impact of fire restoration.

Use Sustainable Materials

We live in an age where there are more sustainable material options than ever before. Recycled building components are increasingly popular among homeowners who want a green alternative to hyper-modern, often overpriced processed materials. As an added bonus, many people also find them more unique or attractive.

There are many examples of recycled lumber or stone products that can be integrated into your home. There are also newer materials that can be more sustainable than traditional alternatives.

For example, cellulose insulation is made from recycled paper. Mineral wool insulation is both recyclable and fire resistant.

For flooring, there is bamboo, which is considered a green choice because it grows very quickly and in many different environments, or cork, which is both renewable and antimicrobial.

Energy-Efficient Home Upgrades

If you’re considering home upgrades, either due to a disaster event or just to be a more ecologically responsible homeowner, there are many directions you can take.

Modern appliances tend to be considerably more energy efficient than those that were on the market even 20 years ago. To that end, a new HVAC system might radically reduce your energy usage.

If that’s above your budget, even a smart thermostat can help you reduce energy consumption. You can also improve electrical efficiency with LED retrofits or smart electrical panels.

The costs can vary pretty significantly depending on the type of upgrades you’re considering. An all-new HVAC system can cost $15,000 to $30,000, for example, while a Nest thermostat is a couple hundred dollars. Some energy companies even provide them for free.

Bottom Line

Energy-efficient restoration is possible, particularly when you’re proactive about it. Find a company that specializes in these processes. You may even ask about specialized certifications for green restoration.

At AMH Restoration, we work with homeowners who have a wide variety of priorities. Our job is to make the process of repairing your home as stress-free as possible. We facilitate this through compassionate, efficient service and by handling as much of the stress as possible, including communications with your insurance company.

Reach out today with any questions or reservations you might have.