Green home building is becoming increasingly popular, and not because Earth Day has somehow heightened everyone's attention. True, it's trendy to wear hemp clothes and use canvas grocery bags, but using green building materials and methods save a bundle of bucks on energy efficiency and utility bills.
The Impact of Buildings on the Natural Environment
Most people think of exhaust pipes and factories when they consider the impact of humans on the natural environment. But consider these facts about buildings in general. They're responsible for -
- 65% of all energy consumption
- 39% of what's classified as greenhouse gas emissions
- 36% of all energy consumption
- 30% of all raw materials usage
- 12% of potable (drinking quality) water usage
- 30% of waste output each year
These statistics make a compelling argument for building green homes and commercial buildings. In fact, many communities, cities, and municipalities have drafted green building guidelines. They're not so set-in-stone as electrical building codes, but they do provide general information.
LEED Leads the Way
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is an organization that is leading the way in sustainable construction. They have developed LEED for Homes, which is a rating system for dwellings that have been built with an eye towards lower utility bills, minimized greenhouse gas emissions, and reduced indoor toxin levels.
Once a home has been inspected and is LEED certified, not only will the owner be reassured, but this is a powerful selling tool if the home goes on the market. Utility costs are currently at an all time high and show no signs of trending down.
The checklist for certification is very detailed and contains such areas as -
- Project planning
- Quality management for durability
- Building site selection (above the floodplain defined by FEMA, no endangered species, etc.)
- Proximity to mass transit systems
- Landscaping methods (drought tolerance, mulch, reduced irrigation demand, etc.)
- Non-toxic pest control
- Water reuse
- Indoor water use (low flow toilets and shower heads, etc.)
- ENERGY STAR performance
- HVAC refrigerants
- Construction materials
- Interior heating methods
- Radon protection
Regreen Home Remodeling
Clearly, the above list is easiest met when dealing with new residential construction. To be fully compliant, it's all got to start on the drafting table. But all is not lost! When a remodeling contractor is involved, the replaced items can be made from green building materials.
- Basically, this involves looking at each item and asking questions.
- What is the material's manufacturer's commitment to sustainability?
- What raw materials were used to make the material?
- Where did the materials come from?
- Are any toxic fumes emitted?
- What adhesives were used?
Clearly, green or sustainable construction is a work in progress. But, it's become obvious that it's not just a fad. It's a true movement driven by concern, health, and economic reality.
Kelly Smith - Kelly has over 30 years experience as a journeyman carpenter and 20 as a freelance writer and photographer.
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