"Green"
remodeling is a growing trend with
environmentally conscious homeowners and renovators. You should know, however,
that without formal building codes and definitions, many different practices
are called "green" and not everyone agrees.Going "green" can bring
health benefits and reduced costs, but it's not likely to bring higher prices
to homes on the market. Environmentally friendly designs are most useful for
people who plan on living in the home or have a market for people to whom it
is a perk.
The costs of utilities can be affected tremendously by proper design. High
efficiency appliances, especially furnaces and air conditioning units, waste
less energy and reduce your electric bill each month. Toilets and dishwashers
that use less water also help.
Passive systems can be installed to reduce the need for electricity. Solar
panels can heat water, your home, and provide electricity. At least one firm
also uses solar panels and fiber optic cable to bring natural sunlight into
your home.
Housing materials that are recycled make homeowners feel better, reduce the
impact on the environment, and may be of better quality. Beams are being
created from compressed recycled wood that are stronger than regular boards.
Metal roofs help cool homes and do not require tarred shingles, which can
release chemicals into rainwater falling off them.
Gardeners and landscapers have a role as well. By selecting plants that
require low amounts of water you can avoid having to water your plants through
the summer. Rain water collected into a system can provide all your plants or
garden needs through the summer.
Renovating your home to be more environmentally friendly does not
necessarily bring increased costs. According to one source a large kitchen
remodel of $100,000 only included $350 of additional costs because of green
materials.
Materials are not hard to find. There are listings of "Green" contractors
on the Internet as well as materials.
Home Depot recently began a project to educate the public about products
that are recycled or otherwise environmentally friendly. The products, which
have been certified by a third party, have been available for some time but
homeowners are only now learning about them and showing interest. Products are
also being featured in conventions and trade shows such as "Remodel Green
Midwest."
Health risks can be reduced or eliminated with these products. Many major
manufacturers are making paints with lower levels of volatile organic
compounds (VOCs), which can reduce indoor air quality and be harmful. Choosing
a floor created from renewable sources often means better air quality as well.
Renewable wood floors look beautiful and can add value to the home as well.
Insulation can be installed that is created from soy or other natural products
that increase the efficiency of your heating and don't bring in the irritants.
With energy costs rising consistently improving your home to require less
energy and generate less waste is a good financial move as well as a way to
save resources for future generations.
