Sustainable construction is becoming increasingly popular and is now considered standard practice by many people. The same applies to energy-efficient renovation measures. However, while most people primarily think of replacing an outdated boiler in the basement, sustainability should not stop at the bathroom door.
An environmentally friendly bathroom upgrade can be approached on several levels. One option is to use natural, renewable materials that are as durable as possible and, ideally, reusable. Sustainable materials for bathroom walls include lime or clay plaster, as well as tiles. Wood is also used in some cases. Relevant environmental certifications indicate whether particular materials are sustainable. Products carrying the IBU label issued by the Institut Bauen und Umwelt, or the FSC label for sustainable forestry, are particularly recommended.
When it comes to bathtubs, models made from enamelled steel have a better environmental footprint than acrylic tubs, for example, because they are more durable and can also be repaired and recycled. The same applies to ceramic products.
Finally, the sustainability of materials also depends on how far they have to be transported. As a general rule, locally produced products are better for the environment than those that have travelled halfway around the world, particularly in terms of their carbon footprint.
Creating an Eco-Friendly Bathroom by Saving Water
In addition to choosing sustainable materials, the environmental impact of a bathroom can also be reduced through the design and configuration of individual sanitary installations. Measures that help conserve water are particularly important.
One option, for example, is an ergonomically shaped bathtub that allows users to enjoy a full bath while using as little water as possible. Installing a toilet cistern with a three-litre flush can also make an important contribution to sustainability. By comparison, older models can use up to 14 litres of water per flush. Another option is a variable flush system that allows the amount of water used to be adjusted manually.
Water consumption can also be reduced through the washbasin taps. Water-saving inserts or flow restrictors can be installed in the outlet. By mixing more air into the water stream, these devices can reduce the flow rate from around 18 litres per minute to just six to eight litres.
Another useful measure is a shower with a built-in stop button, allowing the water supply to be interrupted while applying soap or shampoo. This can save several more litres of water. Installing a sensor-controlled tap at the washbasin, which activates the water flow only when someone places their hands underneath it, can also make a significant difference.
You can also conserve resources in your bathroom by choosing energy-efficient LED lighting instead of halogen bulbs. To produce the same amount of light as a 60-watt incandescent bulb, a halogen bulb requires 40 watts, an energy-saving bulb requires 20 watts, and an LED bulb requires just eight watts. While an LED bulb has a service life of up to 50,000 hours, conventional incandescent and halogen bulbs generally last only around 2,000 hours.
Bathroom Renovation Costs
The cost of renovating your bathroom sustainably will naturally vary depending on the fittings and materials selected. According to various guides, the average cost of a comprehensive bathroom renovation is generally estimated at around €900 to €3,500 per square metre. This means that renovating a seven-square-metre bathroom may cost approximately €6,500 to €24,000.
(Source: wohnglueck.de)
However, environmentally friendly ceramic tiles are often part of the more affordable tile segment, making it possible to combine sustainability with cost efficiency. Tile prices generally range from €20 to €200 per square metre. For example, abrasion-class 2 ceramic tiles cost around €22 per square metre, although labour costs for professional installation must also be taken into account.
(Source: www.commerzbank.de)
Similar decisions regarding materials must also be made when selecting individual sanitary fittings. Smaller accessories, such as flow restrictors that help regulate water consumption, are often available for just a few euros. In addition, the measures taken to reduce water and electricity consumption can also generate long-term financial savings.
Ultimately, anyone who values a sustainable bathroom should examine the environmental footprint of every individual product. The carbon emissions generated during the production and transportation of particular items can significantly undermine their overall environmental performance. Reputable manufacturers generally provide independent environmental assessments for their products.
And there is no need to worry: visually, an eco-friendly bathroom is virtually indistinguishable from a conventional one.
