Make Sure You Build a Green Home

Home building needs to undergo a process of technological substitution and rethinking to become more environmentally sensitive and sustainable. In a green housing project, much inefficiency are addressed and overcome, so your home becomes part of the solution. The building industry is acting to incorporate the growing knowledge of green buildings into housing products and services, but consumer demand plays an important role in getting these better products to market. When you interview a builder, ask what green building methods and materials are used.

The directional orientation or placement of your home to a site is a good way to start. Twenty degrees in either direction from true south with lots of south facing windows. This coupled with calculated overhangs don't really cost you anymore, in most cases. Incorporating a gray-water system to water your plants is a very simple task for a plumber, with the right design. If your builder looks for materials that are locally produced, you participate in avoiding trucking materials. Saves polution, energy and promotes the local economy. There are many manufacturers on board that see into the future such as 3M, Dupont, Amoco, Trane, E-Crete, and others that recognize the market value of environmentally sound products. These products need to be specified when doing any construction whether it is a new home or a remodel. Your builder may not realize all that is available to him. This is one of the most common problems throughout our community. Most builders use methods and materials that are tried and true to them. It is our duty as consumers and the guardians of our planet to request the alternative. We need to raise the bar of consciousness and demand sensible products and methods. it is our duty as privileged people to get the knowledge to the builder . This will spark the local industry and accelerate a wave of interest. Be proactive.

WHAT IS GREEN BUILDING?

The subject is huge and there are few certifications. LEEDS is a certification that can be attained, when a home meets specific criteria. Many people find that Sustainable Development is a better designation. In a sustainable development, you will address energy and water conservation, wildlife habitat, density, building materials, minimization of waste, air quality. The topic is no longer "tree hugger" oriented. The news is out; we must begin to take responsibility for how we live, if our quality of life is to continue.

How to proceed can be a challenge. Which choices will actually result in a recognized difference vs. those that feel and sound good. My belief is that the best approach is taking baby steps and making lifestyle changes that really do not cost money, nor do they require great effort. Soon, those new behaviours will become habits. Go from there!

Candlelight Dinners-How about family dinners, with candlelight. Who says romance is just for couples. Kids will love it!
Room Lighting-Do you habitually turn out lights, as you leave a room? If so, you are the exception.
Progammable Thermostats-Adjust the temp in your house to match your schedule. And remember that ceiling fans helpful to keep the cool feeling in the room, with a higher temp. They do nothing when you are not in the room.
Recycling-Sort of a hassle when you start, but very soon, you won't be able to bring yourself to toss paper, glass or plastic, in the trash any more than you would toss it out the window!
Weather Stripping-Are you losing cool or warm air through gaps in doors and windows? This is a quick and easy solution.
Window Shades-The best way to eliminate heat or cold is to block it from the outside. Next best way is to use interior screens or shades.
Insulation-What is the level of your insulation? Expandable foam insulation will be the best sealant. It also avoids the fiberglass found in more common forms of insulation.
Tankless Water Heaters-These are only smart choices with gas or propane. Electric powered would not be cost effective.

I have to go...a covey of quail just crossed my driveway.