Green building is an idea of building houses smarter, there are several different steps to define “green”. Starting with the practice of “green” carpentry, this simply means looking for ways to build houses in a way that saves on wood without compromising the structure or longevity of the house. An example of this is using a 2×10 double header (common practice) on a non-load bearing wall… Doing so not only wastes lumber and money, it robs the insulation value of the space above the window. This is just one example of “green” woodworking.
Another problem is wasted materials in the workplace. If you own and contract your work, make sure your teams use the “ends of the board” or “cut” pieces; also using scrap lumber and sheets as corner supports and bracing. Another way to go “green” is with construction debris: separating construction debris into demolition materials, recyclables, and real trash. The proverbial “job site dumpster” will not be found on a true green builder job site. It’s amazing how much cardboard comes out of a job site!
Practice “green” digging and landscaping: The goal is simply to remove as little soil as possible while using the resources on the site. It’s always nice when there’s no need to haul dirt on or off the property. With creative excavation, you can often create simple yet effective water runoff situations, while also eliminating the need for retaining walls. Whenever possible, the topsoil is scraped and cleaned before being placed in a pile. That land can be reused once the site is ready for topsoil. Trees and other landscape materials are also preserved and used.
Another common “green” practice is the use of renewable building materials. When it is prudent and sensible to choose a product that comes from a renewable source, versus a product that is not. As a green builder, you Will being put in situations where you must make decisions where renewable materials may be overpriced; gold may use more fossil fuels in production and shipping than it is worth.
Sometimes “green” is defined by the use of non-toxic materials. Paint, treated wood, insulation are just a few examples of materials known to have toxic properties. Pay attention to this problem and avoid any products and materials known to be dangerous in a home.
Other times, “green” refers to carbon emissions or carbon footprint. I have researched for years to find ways to make homes more energy efficient. If you want to build a beautiful sustainable house, consider building a single level house, using radiant heat as the heat source. You will have very few emissions due to the fact that this type of home uses an electric boiler with thermal storage, with the benefit of low season prices. Electricity is an excellent, clean and affordable source of energy. “Green” definitely has a place when it comes to energy efficiency. Choosing “energy star” qualified products and materials is also very important when it comes to being “green.” Insulation, windows, light fixtures, appliances, heating and cooling systems, and sun exposure all come into play.
Renewable energy sources are yet another example of “green.” Build your home with a thermal storage system that provides affordable hot and cold storage. Ground source heat pumps, wind power, and solar power are excellent sources of renewable energy. Currently, the problem with them is the initial cost. Hopefully, as time goes on, the startup costs will come down and they will be a more viable option for the mainstream market.
Another example of “green” is building with materials and products that will stand the test of time. Building materials, fixtures and appliances that are more durable and long-lasting, save on the environment and on your pocket. Steel roofs are just one example. However, the challenge here is the start-up costs. Another problem is the rapidly changing demands of the industry. I can still remember the $800 microwave now selling for less than $50.00. The point of being your latest and greatest expensive could quickly turn into a dinosaur.
The size, footprint and design of a house can also be “green”. He’s apparently realizing that big “McMansions” are a thing of the past. A modest, conservative floor plan that utilizes all of the homes square footage is becoming more and more of a focus in the new home market.
Finally, “green” can be about saving money. That’s how it is! Going “green” can save you some green! The concept is simple, choosing the right materials and appliances and making smart decisions is all about “green”. Making smart decisions will stretch your money and save our planet.
Whether we like it or not, “green” is here to stay. Before you build your next home, be sure to plan with “green” in mind. Be a creative house builder, constantly researching the latest and most innovative ways to build houses. By following these guidelines, you can be sure that your home will be built in keeping with the “green” movement.