When Liz and Daniel bought their 1987 ranch-style home in Sacramento, they loved the natural light and open layout—but the bathroom? Not so much. Faded tile, a water-guzzling toilet, and fluorescent lighting didn’t exactly scream “California comfort.” They began searching for the best approach to a Bathroom Remodel Sacramento homeowners could feel good about—both in style and sustainability. They had two options: go with a basic bathroom remodel or take the eco-friendly route.
This is what happened when they chose eco over easy—and why it paid off in more ways than one.
Option A: The “Standard” Remodel
A local contractor offered a no-frills update:
- Replace tile with ceramic
- Install standard plumbing fixtures
- Keep existing layout
- Total cost: $14,000
It was fast, clean, and cheaper up front. But there were drawbacks: higher long-term water and energy bills, and few upgrades that would appeal to environmentally conscious buyers.
Option B: The Eco-Friendly Remodel
Liz and Daniel teamed up with a Sacramento remodeler specializing in green renovations. Their upgrades included:
- Low-flow toilet and showerhead (cutting water usage by 40%)
- LED lighting with motion sensors
- Recycled glass tile for the shower walls
- Dual-pane, energy-efficient window for natural light
- VOC-free paint and bamboo cabinetry for cleaner air and renewability
- Total cost: $18,500
Yes, it cost more. But rebates from the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) and California’s GoGreen Home financing program helped offset the difference. And the long-term savings were real—more than $300/year in water and energy costs alone.
The Results: Eco Wins in the Long Run
Fast forward six months:
- Their bathroom feels brighter, cleaner, and more modern.
- The humidity levels dropped thanks to better ventilation and smart lighting.
- Prospective buyers at their open house commented not just on the look—but on the “forward-thinking features.”
And here’s the kicker: an appraisal noted the sustainable upgrades added over $10,000 in home value.
“We almost went with the quick fix,” Liz said, “but now we realize we got comfort, conscience, and resale power all in one.”
Call to Action
If you’re planning a bathroom remodel in Sacramento, don’t just think short-term. Choosing eco-conscious upgrades means lower bills, cleaner living, and better resale value—without compromising on style.
Ready to remodel smarter? Talk to our Sacramento eco-design team and explore sustainable bathroom solutions built to last.
