RESIDENTIAL GREEN BUILDING

For many people, a home is the biggest investment they make in their entire life time.  Yet, few bother to consider much else than exterior and interior looks.  Few think how the home will withstand time and extreme weather.  Hardly any reflect on how much the home will cost due to inefficiency and bad design.  Few consider what impact that home will have on the environment.  But why?  Many point to high costs as a reason to steer clear of green building.  However, did you know that green building can cost the same as traditional building methods?  Actually, on average, green building cost only 0-10% more than traditional building techniques.  In addition, a more efficient home will come with the benefits of lower energy and water consumption, meaning you save bucks on utility bills.  With this, the value of the home increases with every dollar saved on utility bills. 

However, utility bill savings aren’t the only benefit to building a green home.  Green principles are applied to the home starting at initial ideas.  These homes are laid out to promote productivity and easy living for occupants.  They are also built to last; after all, tearing down a decomposing home to build a new one would not be the best bet for the environment.

Also, green homes are designed to be comfortable and healthy.  From wall systems that aid in even temperature distribution to air conditioning systems that remove dust and allergens from the air, these homes are designed to provide optimal living conditions for occupants.  Overall, these homes improve quality of life.

And, of course, this home is great for enhancing and protecting biodiversity and ecosystems.  It is designed to minimize negative impact on the environment, thus reducing pollutants and CO₂ emissions released into the air and water.  Also, these homes reduce waste water and storm water runoff.  Finally, construction materials and methods minimize waste and unnecessary depletion of natural resources. 

Surprising to many, these homes look just like any other home (if that is how you would like it to be).  Green homes can be faced with brick, stone, stucco, siding, etc.  Interiors can be finished out with low VOC materials and paints that look just like those found in your current home. 

The best part about green building is that it is so customizable.  You can choose to be completely sustainable, zero-energy, resource friendly, or just a little green.  You can choose to have recycled materials in your countertops, but use traditional slate for the floors.  You do not have to be “extreme;” little efforts go a long way.  Or, you can choose to be green in every way possible.  It is all up to you. 

In addition, something that is neat about our company is that you can do all of your building with us or just a part.  If you already have a builder, but want ICF walls, we can do this service for you only.  If you want to build the home yourself, but need some help in site design and floor plans, we can help with this.  Many builders may need help or a second opinion on how to make your home healthier, more comfortable, more environmentally-friendly, etc. 

Check out our pages on the Elements of Green Building