Renovating an old house is both an exciting and meaningful endeavor, especially in the Midwest, where historic homes abound. From Victorian mansions to Craftsman bungalows and farmhouse-style residences, the region’s architectural heritage is rich. However, the process of renovating these homes offers a significant opportunity to embrace sustainability—not just to preserve the environment but also to honor the craftsmanship of the past while adapting it for modern, eco-friendly living.
Delve into how homeowners can incorporate sustainability into their Midwest home renovations, from material choices to energy efficiency, water conservation, and landscaping.
Understanding Sustainability in Home Renovation
Sustainability in home renovation focuses on reducing waste, conserving energy, and using resources responsibly. It’s about making decisions that lower the environmental footprint of your renovation project while increasing the long-term value and efficiency of your home.
Why Focus on Sustainability?
- Environmental Benefits: Renovating with sustainability in mind minimizes resource extraction and waste.
- Financial Savings: Energy-efficient upgrades, while requiring an initial investment, can reduce utility bills over time.
- Historical Preservation: Maintaining the integrity of historic Midwest homes aligns with sustainable practices by reducing the need for new materials.
Planning a Sustainable Renovation
Sustainability starts with careful planning. Before you begin, conduct an energy audit of the house and consult with professionals familiar with eco-friendly building practices. Identify which parts of the home can be salvaged and where modern upgrades will have the most impact.
We have seen it all—with decades of years of experience, we know renovations can come with a lot of surprises. It’s important that you have an audit conducted so that you have as much information that you need before beginning the project. With that information you can make informed decisions about where to spend your money most efficiently. While sustainability can be cost-effective in the long run, the up front costs can be substantial. We are interested in finding options that fit in the budget and will have positive longterm effects. Contact us for more information about our project auditing processes at Kell Architects.
Reusing and Recycling: Working With What You Have
Preserving Existing Materials
One of the most sustainable choices is to work with the materials already present in the home:
- Hardwood Floors: Refinishing original wood floors is often more environmentally friendly than replacing them.
- Brick and Stone: Salvaging bricks and stone from the house for re-use in walls, fireplaces, or landscaping reduces waste.
- Trim and Doors: Original woodwork and doors can often be stripped and refinished instead of replaced.
Using Salvaged and Reclaimed Materials
If parts of the house are beyond repair, consider sourcing reclaimed materials:
- Midwest salvage yards and architectural antiques shops offer vintage fixtures, reclaimed wood, and period-appropriate hardware.
- Repurposed materials bring character to your home while reducing demand for new resources.
Upgrading for Energy Efficiency
Old homes are often energy hogs due to outdated systems and poor insulation. Retrofitting these systems can drastically improve efficiency while maintaining the house’s character.
Insulation and Sealing
Improving insulation in walls, attics, and basements helps reduce heating and cooling costs:
- Use sustainable insulation materials such as cellulose, made from recycled paper, or sheep’s wool, which is biodegradable.
- Seal gaps around doors, windows, and foundations to prevent air leaks.
Windows
While original windows are charming, they can be a source of energy loss. Options include:
- Restoring old windows by reglazing and adding storm windows for improved efficiency.
- Replacing them with energy-efficient models designed to mimic the original aesthetic.
Heating and Cooling
- Install a programmable thermostat or a smart system to optimize energy use.
- Replace old HVAC systems with energy-efficient heat pumps or geothermal systems.
Lighting
Switching to LED lighting can reduce energy consumption while preserving the ambiance of the home.
Water Conservation in Midwest Renovations
Incorporating water-saving features can help reduce water use while protecting local water supplies.
Low-Flow Fixtures
Install low-flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets to conserve water without sacrificing performance.
Rainwater Harvesting
Rain barrels can be used to collect water for landscaping, reducing reliance on municipal water supplies.
Permeable Landscaping
Designing driveways and walkways with permeable materials helps manage stormwater runoff, an essential consideration in regions prone to flooding.
Sustainable Material Choices
Choosing eco-friendly materials during your renovation supports sustainability while ensuring the health of your family and the environment.
Flooring
- Refinish existing hardwood, or opt for sustainably harvested wood, bamboo, or cork.
- Reclaimed tiles or terrazzo flooring add a unique touch while repurposing materials.
Paint and Finishes
- Use low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints and finishes to improve indoor air quality.
- Natural lime or clay plasters are eco-friendly and historically appropriate for many Midwest homes.
Cabinets and Countertops
- Consider cabinets made from FSC-certified wood or repurposed wood.
- Countertops made from recycled materials like glass or paper composites are durable and stylish.
Renewable Energy Integration
Incorporating renewable energy systems can make your renovated home energy-independent while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Solar Panels
The Midwest enjoys ample sunshine, making solar panels a viable option for reducing electricity costs.
Geothermal Heating
Geothermal systems use the earth's stable temperature to heat and cool the home efficiently.
Wind Energy
For properties with sufficient space, small wind turbines can complement other renewable systems.
Sustainable Landscaping
Landscaping is an integral part of the home renovation process, especially in the Midwest, where seasons dramatically affect outdoor spaces.
Native Plants
Using native Midwest flora minimizes the need for irrigation and chemical fertilizers, promoting biodiversity.
Edible Gardens
Planting a vegetable or herb garden not only provides fresh produce but also reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting food.
Green Roofs
If structurally feasible, green roofs can improve insulation, manage stormwater, and create additional green space.
Preserving the Historical Character of Midwest Homes
Sustainability is not just about reducing environmental impact—it’s also about preserving the cultural and architectural legacy of the Midwest.
Working With Craftsmen
Hire local artisans and tradespeople familiar with traditional construction techniques to ensure that renovations are historically appropriate and sustainable.
Matching Materials
When replacing materials, choose those that match the home’s original aesthetic, such as locally quarried stone or historically accurate wood siding.
Incentives and Resources for Sustainable Renovations
Numerous programs and incentives in the Midwest encourage sustainable renovation:
- State and federal tax credits for energy-efficient upgrades.
- Historic preservation grants for maintaining architectural integrity.
- Utility company rebates for installing energy-efficient systems.
Building a Sustainable Future on a Historic Foundation
Renovating an old house in the Midwest offers an opportunity to celebrate the past while building a more sustainable future. By prioritizing energy efficiency, water conservation, and the use of eco-friendly materials, you can reduce your environmental footprint without compromising the charm and character of your home.
Ultimately, sustainable renovation is about balance: blending modern needs with historical preservation and environmental stewardship. By adopting these practices, you ensure that your Midwest home remains a beautiful and sustainable sanctuary for generations to come.
Are you focusing on your sustainable impact on an upcoming renovation or restoration? Reach out to Kell Architects to get an architectural designer on your team! Our team has an expertise in navigating sustainable materials, construction impact, and enviromental safety.