How to green your bathroom renovation

Bathroom renovations are one of the most popular home improvement projects in Canada and can add greatly to both the value of your house as well as your family’s enjoyment of your home. It is also an opportunity to improve the energy and water efficiency of your house, while making your home healthier and more comfortable. The following tips can help you make your bathroom renovation as efficient, green and affordable as possible:

Go Low-Flow

Bathrooms account for about 75% of the water used in the average Canadian home. Water-efficient fixtures, such as low-flow faucets, showerheads and ultra-low flush toilets, can significantly reduce the amount of water your family sends down the drain on a daily basis.

Minimize your environmental footprint

Select certified forest flooring and cabinetry, recycled countertops and tiles, and locally sourced products and materials for your renovation. Choose materials, products and finishes that are low-emission, low-polluting, easy to clean and maintain, and that will remain in good condition for years to come.

Plan for the future

Make sure your bathroom will be able to adapt to your changing needs as you or your family members get older. For example, make sure the controls and fixtures are within easy reach, install grab bars beside the toilet and bathtub, use a non-slip surface in the bathtub or shower, and install a shower head on a vertical slide bar so it can be set at a variety of different heights.

Save money by choosing wisely

To cut down on your monthly utility bills, choose low-energy lighting and exhaust fans, install more energy-efficient ENERGY STAR® windows, insulate the hot and cold water pipes, and improve the insulation in the walls and ceiling wherever feasible.

Prevent the growth of mould

Use moisture-resistant materials and finishes, such as ceramic tile, natural stone or laminates. Also, make sure your bathroom has adequate ventilation to ensure that condensation, moisture and odours will be vented directly to the outside.

For more details on CMHC's programs, contact me or visit CMHC's interactive " Step by Step " Guide. As Canada's authority on housing, CMHC helps Canadians buy a home with a minimum down payment starting at 5%. Ask your mortgage professional about CMHC.

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