Do you feel using eco-friendly appliances and materials in your kitchen is important?  If so, you are among 49% of homeowners according to the Houzz Kitchen Trends 2013 Study.

If you are considering a kitchen renovation and you would like eco-friendly options, follow these tips:

For “greener” cabinets:

•  Choose adhesives or glues that have no or low-Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) and formaldehyde free.
•  Refinish cabinets with no or low-VOC, water-based paints and stains.
•  If you use reclaimed wood, find out where the wood came from.  Old wood may contain toxic chemicals.

For “greener” countertops:

•  Look for countertops that are made from recycled or sustainable materials.
•  Avoid using formaldehyde-based glues and adhesives during installation.
•  Seal stone with water-based, low-odor sealant.

For “greener” flooring:

•  Traditional linoleum is durable and easy to maintain.
•  Cork is another green option, but make sure that you use cork that was manufactured in Spain and Portugal, where environmental and health regulations are stricter than in other foreign countries.
•  Bamboo is a great choice.  Just make sure it wasn’t made with formaldehyde-based binders.
•  Look for the Energy Star® certification on the appliances you buy.  These appliances are energy efficient, which may mean more money in your pocket.

Have you remodeled a kitchen or bath in your home recently?  What eco-friendly materials did you use?

– S.O