If you're currently mulling over home upgrade possibilities, you should consider going green. Green home improvement projects will not only keep utility costs down, but also they will make your home more attractive to potential buyers when the time comes to put it on the market. Consider the following ways to cut energy costs and improve you home's livability quotient.

Replace Your Roof

If it's time to replace your roof, using certain materials can keep energy costs down substantially. If you live in a region that enjoys a warm climate, roofing material that reflects sunlight will help keep your home interior cool during the hot season. On the other hand, cold climate dwellers can help their homes stay cozy by using roofing materials in dark colors that absorb interior heat.

Xeriscape Your Landscaping

Xeriscaping simply means choosing landscaping plants and materials that have a low environmental impact, particularly when it comes to water usage. You are probably already aware that municipal water bills have gone up substantially in most parts of the country during recent years. The days of cultivating high maintenance lawns is over for most homeowners. Native plants, rock gardens, and easy-care ground covers are rapidly replacing the traditional American lawn.

Install a Tankless Water Heater

Hot water costs account for roughly one-third of the household utility costs of the average American household. Having a tankless water heater installed can cut these costs dramatically because tankless water heaters heat water as it is used rather than keep it hot constantly in a large tank. Although tankless water heaters are somewhat expensive, you will probably recover the costs in lower utility bills, and you may be able to get a tax break if you purchase a water heater that qualifies under the federal government's Energy Star program.

Have an Energy Audit

Having your public utility company perform an energy audit on your home will identify its weak spots and point to the best ways that you can save on energy costs. Keep in mind that although there are many excellent ways to implement green home improvement strategies, there are no one-size-fits-all solutions for saving on energy costs because every household is different. For instance, a tankless water heater may not be the best investment for a senior citizen who lives alone, but it will definitely help large families to keep energy costs down.