Let’s show you sustainable home renovation ideas you have to try! We all know that sustainability is trending for all the right reasons, and has been for a very long time too – so let’s take a look at things you can do not only for yourself – but for a more eco-friendly UK, too. Have you ever wondered to yourself, “what can I do to reduce my impact on the environment, little old me?” Well. The truth is, a lot more than you think, and it’s fun!
We have compiled a list of 3 fancy small renovation projects we enjoyed so much we wanted to share with you – so you can make your own home more energy efficient and eco-conscious, and most of all, sustainable waste management. That is what we are all about at National Waste Removals. Make your home more sustainable and lower your energy bills and enhance your overall comfort.
We hope you enjoy these ideas and know when the rubbish day comes, we’ll be there! We offer a variety of waste management services such as wheelie bins, waste bags, skip bins, Man and Van rubbish removal, and even waste compactors to help you responsibly dispose of any waste generated during your renovations.
#1 The Power of Natural Light – And Let There Be LED!
Use the power of natural light by strategically placing mirrors, trimming back overgrown hedges and considering installing skylights in darker areas. You will reduce your reliance on artificial lighting and create a more uplifting space to feel good in. Night time? Dark Winter days? Simple. Swap your traditional light bulbs for energy-efficient LED lights. They last longer and use less energy. It goes without saying this will save you money – and they also come in a variety of styles to suit your taste.
Make a Bicycle Wheel Chandelier, What?
Looking for a statement lighting piece? Here’s a great idea. Why not repurpose an old bicycle wheel into a one-of-a-kind chandelier? It’s a conversation starter when you have guests and most definitely a sustainable showstopper!
Here’s what you’ll need, we’re sure you’ll have a few of these ingredients lying about! If not – Find an alternative, get creative and see what other rubbish you can turn into a beautiful one of a kind chandelier – upcycle something in its place:
- A used bicycle wheel (Check the yard, check the shed!)
- Light bulb sockets (Enough for the number of spokes you want to use)
- Pendant light cords (The length will depend on your desired hanging height)
- Spray paint (Optional to customise the look of the wheel, )
- Wire cutters and strippers (Toolbox – or a friend you can borrow from?)
- Electrical tape (Cheap enough to buy if you don’t have!)
- Ceiling hook and mounting hardware (Look for old unused light fittings in the garage, shed, or old wall pieces like shelves)
Prep the Bicycle Wheel
Clean the bicycle wheel thoroughly, removing any dirt, grease, or grime. If you want to change the colour, use spray paint suitable for metal in a well-ventilated area. Let it dry completely.
Attach The Sockets
Carefully drill holes (large enough to accommodate the socket base) through the rim of the wheel at even intervals, corresponding to the number of light bulbs you desire. Secure the light bulb sockets into the holes with screws or following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Wire it Up
This step requires some electrical knowledge. Ensure the power is off at the breaker before proceeding. Attach the pendant light cords to the sockets, following proper wiring techniques (consult a professional electrician if needed). Secure all connections with electrical tape for safety.
Mount Your Chandelier
Install a ceiling hook rated for the weight of your chandelier. Attach the light fixture to the hook using the appropriate mounting hardware. Adjust the length of the pendant cords for a balanced look.
Light it Up! Screw in your chosen light bulbs and flick the switch. Enjoy the unique glow and conversation-worthy addition to your space!
Safety First:
- Ensure all electrical connections are secure before turning on the power.
- If you’re not comfortable with electrical work, you need to consult a qualified electrician for installation.
We hope you enjoy this smart idea and come up with some posh looking ideas! Share them with us on Facebook and let us know! So, get creative, have fun – and light up your space with this unique DIY project!
National Waste Removals can help you with any leftover metal, wood, glass scraps or other materials in your DIY project. Go for Man and Van service for collecting smaller items and skip bins to handle larger amounts of waste. That’s why we’re here!
#2 Reimagine, Upcycle, Revamp!
Give pre-loved furniture a new lease on life with a lick of paint, reupholster or creative modifications! Saves money, reduces landfill waste and add a unique touch to your home. Win-win. Breathe new life into architectural salvage or reclaimed wood for shelves, flooring and decorative accents. You will soon see how much fun this treasure hunt can be, especially for unique pieces and reduces demand for store-bought materials. While you’re having fun and building your next big sustainable home renovation idea and find yourself with a bunch of rubbish you don’t need, that’s where we come in. Opt for Man and Van services for smaller items or a skip for the unwanted rubbish. You have the fun, we’ll handle the rest!
Upcycling Fun Making a Vintage Suitcase Side Table
Turn a pre-loved suitcase into a unique side table. Find a piece of older furniture you don’t want, or have found to use for this purpose – grab some hairpin legs of it, and add a fresh coat of paint. Get creative. Perfect for a touch of unique style, a conversation starter and not to mention, extra storage! Upcycling reduces waste, and you’ve just turned it into an art piece. Just smashing, isn’t it?
Here’s what you’ll need, and we know you have this rubbish lying around – if not, get creative!
- Vintage suitcase (Preferably with a sturdy hard shell, just like the old days!)
- Hairpin legs (You’ll need a set of 4, have a look around for old furniture to get a consistent look)
- Paintbrush and paint, or spray-paint (Optional for decorating – look for leftover cans that you can dispose of after, get rid of the rubbish!)
- Drill and screws (If you don’t have a drill, borrow!)
- Ruler and pencil (No need to explain this one!)
- Optional extras like decorative knobs, finishes, lining fabric (for the inside) etc.
Suitcase Scouting
First things first, assess your suitcase. Make sure the hinges and clasps are functional and the shell is sturdy enough to support weight. If the exterior is a bit worse for wear, don’t worry – that adds to the vintage charm! Sustainable home renovation ideas are all about upcycling to reduce waste, which reduces recycling, reduces the landfills of recyclable rubbish… Are you getting where we’re going with this? Yes, contribute to a cleaner greener future while having fun!
Clean It Up and Get it Ready
Give your suitcase a thorough clean with a damp cloth to remove any dust or grime. If you plan to paint you need to make sure the surface is dry and free of any debris or dust. If your suitcase has internal compartments, consider removing them to create more storage space. Ensure the legs you choose can support the weight of the suitcase and any items you plan to place on top.
Paint it Pretty (Optional)
This is your chance to get creative! Breathe new life into your old vintage suitcase with a fresh coat of paint. Consider bold colours, a classic black or white, or even stencils for a personalised touch.
Leg Up! Here comes the transformation!
Stand your suitcase upright and mark four drilling points on the underside, ensuring even spacing and stability. Using a drill and appropriate screws, securely attach the hairpin legs. For a more whimsical touch, use mismatched hairpin legs in different colours or finishes.
Interior Inspiration (Optional)
While the outside steals the show, don’t neglect the inside! Line the bottom with fabric or wallpaper for a pop of colour and a polished finish. You can even add small decorative knobs to the interior for a touch of vintage flair.
Style it Up! The fun doesn’t stop there! Accessorise your new side table with books, a lamp, a small plant, or anything that reflects your personality.
National Waste Removals can help you with any leftover scraps or materials from your DIY project. Go for Man and Van service for collecting smaller items and skip bins to handle larger quantities of leftovers and other rubbish you want to rid yourself of!
#3 Build Your Own Wooden Compost Bin
Ready to join the ranks of the Composting Crusaders and turn your kitchen scraps into garden gold? The rest of the UK is, get in on this trend! Sustainable home renovation ideas are the new thing. Ever wondered how to transform your leftover veggie peelings and eggshells into something magical? By creating your own compost bin you become a resourceful Composting Crusader – diverting kitchen waste from landfills and creating nutrient-rich magic for your plants. It’s a win-win for the environment and your garden. Here’s an exciting DIY project to build your very own wooden compost bin we know you will enjoy for years to come.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Wooden pallets (ideally 3 if you can, similar sizes are the easiest)
- Hammer
- Nails (use galvanized or stainless steel)
- Saw (For cutting the pallets to size)
- Drill (For pre-drilling nail holes)
- Hardware cloth/Tough garden shade cloth (For animal-proofing)
- Staple gun (For the the hardware cloth)
- Wire mesh (For ventilation in the bin lid)
- Hinges (For attaching a lid)
- Garden Spade (For turning your compost)
Plan the Perfect Spot
Decide on the size and layout of your compost bin. Three pallets stacked on top of each other create a good starting point that offers ample space for your future compost. If your pallets are a little too large for your designated spot, don’t stress mate! You can easily cut them down to size using a saw for a customised fit. Use a pencil and a ruler, be precise, but it doesn’t need to be perfect – and that’s the charm!
Assemble the Composting Walls
Now comes the fun part – building your compost bin! Lay two pallets flat on the ground side-by-side, like the foundation of your composting castle. Next, take your third pallet and hammer it upright onto the ends of the two flat pallets to create an L-shaped bin. To avoid any frustrating wood splitting, consider pre-drilling nail holes before hammering for a smoother process putting it together – it really does save time.
Optional Critter Control
To deter unwanted visitors like rodents who might be tempted by your compost feast, you can add an extra layer of defense. Line the bottom and sides of the bin with hardware cloth, creating a barrier that keeps critters out while allowing beneficial organisms to access the compost. Secure the hard cloth using a staple gun for a secure fit. To deter unwanted visitors like rodents simply line the bottom and sides of the bin with the cloth.
Ventilation is Key
Let our compost breathe. For the best airflow consider adding wire mesh to one side of the bin (or the back) as a permanent ventilation panel as this is essential for breaking down your compost materials. This allows air to circulate freely within the bin – promoting healthy decomposition. For the best airflow you should consider also adding wire mesh to one side of the bin (or the back, or both) as a permanent ventilation panel. This allows nature to breathe and get the most out of your composting, more nutrients, more power!
Lid or No Lid?
You have the option of adding a lid to your compost bin. If you prefer to keep your composting creation out of sight and protected from the elements – attach a lid using hinges to the top pallet. However, if you want easy access for adding scraps and natural airflow – leaving it open is also a good option. You can choose to have a lid for your compost bin or not, it isn’t make or break. If so, attach it using hinges to the top pallet. Alternatively, leave it open to add scraps easily and allow for natural airflow.
National Waste Removals can help you with any leftover wood scraps or materials from your DIY project. Our Man and Van service is perfect for collecting smaller items, while skip bin rentals can handle larger quantities.
National Waste Removals is here to help you with your sustainable home renovation ideas! We offer a variety of waste management services like wheelie bins, waste bags, skip bins, man with a van, and even waste compactors to help you responsibly dispose of any waste generated during your renovations. By offering comprehensive solutions to meet diverse needs of UK citizens, we aim to assist in creating a greener and cleaner UK for generations to come. Partner with National Waste removals for a custom, tailored quote specific to your requirements.
