Many homeowners are concerned with how to improve their home's energy efficiency so they save money on utility costs throughout the year. They may also be concerned with how the use of electricity, propane, and the like affects the environment. However, it does little good to make changes to your home to save on energy and protect the environment if you use building materials that are not eco-friendly. Note a few ways you can improve your home's energy efficiency while not damaging the environment with the materials and equipment you choose.

1. Recycled metal roof

A metal roof can better insulate your home than asphalt shingles because it's typically made in one solid piece or a few very large pieces. This means less risk of gaps developing between shingles and, in turn, allowing out your heating and air conditioning. To make the most eco-friendly choice with a metal roof, opt for recycled metal. Metal is very easy to fabricate and recycle and cut into pieces that fit a home's roof. Using recycled pieces can mean keeping them out of landfills as well as not having to harvest virgin material for your new roof.

2. Paper insulation

Blown foam and fiberglass insulation can keep your home insulated, but these materials are difficult to recycle once you need to have them removed. Insulation made from shredded newspaper that is moistened and made into a pulp, then mixed with adhesives and allowed to dry, can be a better choice. The newspaper itself is from recycled sources and can be easier to recycle if and when you need to have it removed.

3. LED lights

LED lights use far less power than standard bulbs and also give off less heat. They won't raise the temperature of a room during summertime no matter how much light you need in the space. LED lights are also known for lasting much longer than standard incandescent bulbs, so they stay out of landfills and generate less waste overall. 

4. Double glazed recycled windows

Your windows may be one of the biggest energy leaks in your home; consider that you actually cut a hole in the side of your house and replace it with a piece of glass, and you might better understand the importance of choosing energy-efficient windows. Double-glazed windows with an argon gas between the panes can mean better insulation for your home; shop for windows made from recycled glass so you use less virgin material and keep older window panes out of landfills.