There has been a lot of talk around “healthy” and “green building” practices for years now, but what are the actual benefits? The many benesBesides benefiting the environment, the builder and the community at large, green building and remodel projects give the homeowner the following:
Let’s start at the beginning... What is Green Building?Green building, also called sustainable design and development, employs the practice of using healthier and more resource-efficient land planning, construction, renovation, operation, maintenance and demolition. Today, the term is far more comprehensive and far-reaching than the original, perhaps narrow, understanding of simply incorporating recycled materials into the creation or remodel of a home. As we understand it and implement it, green building focuses on five key areas: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality. What is a Green Remodel?A green remodel uses an approach to home improvement with the goal of not only making your home look better but work better—for you, your family and the environment. Want a healthier home? Lower utility bills? Reduced maintenance? A cleaner planet? With careful planning and creativity, your home can be beautiful, efficient, comfortable and convenient with health and conservation at its core. Here's a closer look at each of those benefits, plus the green building materials and practices typically used to achieve the results. There’s more to it than just… Successful green building means more than just using green materials. It’s about the performance of the home. How much energy does the home use? How comfortable and healthy is the indoor environment for the homeowners? The majority of the homes in Seattle do have some sort of insulation and air sealing, but to achieve maximum energy efficiency for the home it must be reworked and utilized as an integrated system (making sure that all materials, design choices and installations are done correctly. As you go through these points keep the above questions in mind. All right, on we go! 1. Healthier Indoor Air (IAQ)To put it simply, green homes have better indoor air Quality than conventional homes, making the indoors physically healthier and more comfortable for homeowners. How does green building achieve better indoor air quality?
2. DurabilityWhen it comes to assessing quality, many are hesitant about the durability and life span of greener choices, but they shouldn’t be. Why? As our technology and knowledge increases, so does the quality of the new and updated products in development. Even cleaning products are now better quality than they have ever been before. “People aren't going to use products over and over if they're not getting the stains off, if they're not breaking up the soils," says Samara Geller, a database and research analyst with the Environmental Working Group, or EWG. "They have been demonstrated to be just as effective at tackling various cleaning chores as traditional cleaning products." What about cost? In many cases, “it is worth it, for the peace of mind associated with purchasing a product with higher standards for ingredient safety and transparency." She adds, "… you're paying extra for environmental protection benefits as well." What about durable building materials? Whether it is a “greener” floor or paint, you will know that the ingredients are less toxic and are safer. In the end, as with everything, you absolutely will get what you pay for. And if you are smart about it, you’ll find quality durable options that are affordable too. Green building materials that foster durability include:
A green home is actually a durable home. For a homeowner, that means less effort and expense to maintain the home properly, and components of the home won't need to be replaced as often, if ever. 3. Energy SavingsOne major selling point of green remodel is the added benefit of energy efficiency. But did you know? In addition to saving homeowners money through lower utility bills, an energy-efficient home may save some costs during construction too. Plus, an energy-efficient home is a more comfortable home. Why? Better air flow. Energy-efficient construction practices include:
Looking for more? Check out the 5 Energy Efficient, Money Saving Remedies for Your Home. 4. Water SavingsDoes is seem like someone is constantly in the bathroom at your house? Is the dishwasher, and washer/dryer, running daily? You’ve probably already thought of ways to reduce your water bill: just use less, right? Yes, and a couple of building practices can also help. Water-saving practices for both indoors and outdoors include:
Were there more than you thought?There are myriad benefits to owning a green home. As our technology and knowledge improves and increases, so does the quality of the new and updated products in development. The key to encouraging more green building is education (i.e. that going green can also mean a more durable, more energy- and water-efficient and healthier home for about the same cost as a conventional home). Are you ready to remodel?Do you know what it takes to complete a successful remodeling project? Do you feel your house or certain area of your home needs a makeover but not sure where to start?
If you’re entertaining thoughts of a remodel project for yourself, consider downloading our Remodel Reality Check worksheet. You can also follow our projects on Houzz, or follow and watch our progressive remodel live videos on our Facebook page and YouTube channel. Check out this post too: 3 Things to Ask a General Contractor About Residential Remodeling Dust Do you have questions about remodeling, healthy and sustainable building design? Subscribe to our blog updates and receive the latest articles directly into your inbox. Sources: https://www.seattle.gov/Documents/Departments/OSE/GreenHomeGuide-Salvage.pdf https://your.kingcounty.gov/solidwaste/greenbuilding/documents/Green_home_remodel-pro.pdf http://www.hgtv.com/remodel/interior-remodel/the-benefits-of-green-building-to-homeowners https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/remodeling-your-home-have-you-considered-indoor-air-quality https://www.epa.gov/radon
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AuthorPathway is a full-service home remodeling company focused on the creation of highly livable and functional spaces through smart design and eco-friendly, healthy, and energy efficient products and practices. FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
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