With spring just around the corner and summer soon to follow, now is the time to consider upgrades for your outdoor home projects. Whether you are wanting to add some energy-efficient features or maximize environmental sustainability, investing in smart and green outdoor project initiatives is a great choice.
Here are six of the top outdoor projects that can help save energy while also enhancing curb appeal: solar panels, eco-friendly landscaping, rain barrels, reducing water usage with drip irrigation systems, replacing windows with Energy Star® rated models and lastly porches and decks made from composite decking materials.
Read on to learn more about these exciting smart & green updates!
Upgrade Your Outdoor Lighting
Are you tired of constantly changing the bulbs in your outdoor light fixtures, or paying increasing electric bills to keep them running?
It’s time to upgrade your outdoor lighting game with solar-powered lights or motion-sensor lighting. Not only will these options save you money in the long run, but they’ll also provide a more efficient and eco-friendly way to light up your front porch or backyard.
With solar-powered lights, you can charge them with sunlight during the day and enjoy bright lights at night without any additional energy costs.
Meanwhile, motion-sensor lighting detects movement and will turn on and off automatically, providing extra security and convenience. Don’t let outdated outdoor lighting hold you back – switch to solar or motion-sensor and enjoy a brighter future.
Install Solar Panels
Solar panels are a popular choice for renewable energy sources, and they can offer considerable savings on your utility bills.
Installing solar panels on the roof of your garage can help you take advantage of the sun’s energy, reduce your carbon footprint, and even qualify you for federal tax credits.
You will need an expert for installing solar panels on your garage roof if it is not designed for this purpose, as there are additional considerations that come with such a project.
You may also take it one step further by adding a power monitoring system to your solar panel setup, and you can track your energy usage in real-time and make better decisions about when to use more or less power. With a solar-powered garage roof, you’ll be taking an important step toward a greener future.
Install a Permeable Driveway
The decision to install a permeable driveway may seem like a small one, but it can have a big impact on the environment and your day-to-day life.
By reducing the amount of runoff from your driveway, you’ll be helping to keep local waterways clean and healthy. Plus, the permeable material will filter out pollutants that would otherwise end up in those waterways.
And let’s not forget the convenience factor – no more having to clean up mud tracked in from a traditional driveway. Overall, installing a permeable driveway is a smart and eco-conscious choice that will benefit both you and the planet.
Add a Rain Barrel
Rain barrels are a simple and effective way to conserve water while also benefiting your garden. By collecting rainwater, you can reduce your reliance on municipal water systems, save money on utility bills, and provide your plants with the purest form of hydration.
Rainwater has no added chemicals or minerals and is free of the chlorine present in tap water that can harm sensitive plants.
Additionally, using a rain barrel helps to reduce runoff and erosion, preventing pollutants from entering our waterways. Installing a rain barrel is a manageable DIY project that can have a big impact on both the environment and the health of your garden.
Install a Water Feature
Transform your outdoor space into a serene oasis with the addition of a water feature. But why spend a fortune on expensive planters when you can repurpose old tires or barrels?
These items can easily be transformed into unique and eco-friendly containers for aquatic plants. Not only will they add a touch of charm to your water feature, but they will also provide a habitat for insects and other wildlife.
Get creative with colors and textures to create an eye-catching display that is sure to impress. Install a water feature and give new life to your old tires and barrels today!
Build a Deck or Patio
Transform your outdoor living space by building a deck or patio that meets your eco-friendly standards.
Imagine a serene space where you can relax and spend quality time with loved ones, all while minimizing your environmental footprint.
With the right materials and design, you can create an inviting space that not only complements your home but also aligns with your green values. Consider using sustainable materials, such as reclaimed wood or recycled plastic, to reduce waste and limit the depletion of natural resources. Incorporating energy-efficient lighting and water-saving features will also help to reduce your carbon footprint.
Don’t just build a deck or patio, create a natural and inviting extension of your home with minimal environmental impact.
Working on these projects can be a challenging and time-consuming process, but the benefits are worth the effort. In terms of environmental impact, each of these smart and green outdoor home projects helps you reduce runoff, filter pollutants, save energy or water, and add beauty to your home.
Not only that, but you’ll also be contributing to a healthier global environment for everyone. So this season take the opportunity to roll up your sleeves and make some much-needed upgrades to your outdoor living space. You owe it not only to yourself but also to future generations!
