With warm weather on its way, more attention is being paid to the exterior of homes nationwide and homeowners are taking notice. Additionally, with more people paying mind to the environment, many yards, lawns and gardens are getting eco-friendly facelifts. Whether you're planning on selling your home or are just interested in spring cleaning, a well-manicured landscape is essential, and eco-friendly property detail lends your home an added edge, especially among today's more green-conscious home buyers.
"More and more homeowners are turning to the new trend of green home improvement, using products made from recycled materials -- like plastic or rubber -- in their yards and gardens," says Connie Ray, President/Owner of Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners. "Not only is this trend good for the environment, but the changes are inexpensive and provide a great selling point for homeowners looking to put their property on the market."
Composite Lumber -- made from a combination of wood waste and recycled plastic such as milk jugs and grocery bags -- can be used for decks, fences, pool enclosures and patios. This green alternative is attractive, mold- and mildew-resistant and easy to clean. "Plastic lumber is a good way to go," says Ray. "It looks great, it's ecologically responsible and requires very little maintenance."
If you're on the hunt for eco-friendly outdoor furniture, plenty of choices are available, including benches, Adirondack and deck chairs, tables and even swings, all made from recycled plastic containers.
Planning on planting a garden? Instead of buying new planters for your flowers and veggies, try taking a look at what you already have that can be reused, suggests Ray. Items you may intend on discarding—like old plastic garbage cans or buckets that have sprung a leak—can make great garden beds. Even over-sized tin cans or that wheelbarrow you meant to drag to the dump would work. Allow yourself to really get creative.
Once you have found a recycled container to plant your garden in, it's time to rethink that traditional mulch. Instead, try planting in rubber mulch, made from 100% recycled rubber. "Rubber mulch is fantastic option for greening up your garden, and it is just as effective as traditional mulch at keeping weeds at bay," says Ray.
You can even find gardening tools, including water-resistant gloves and other gear, made from plastic water bottles. "Creating an inviting atmosphere that is attractive, fresh and green is important both inside and outside of your home," says Ray. "Luckily there are tons of eco-friendly options out there that are easy, inexpensive, and will leave your yard looking lush and polished."
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