Green Remodeling
September 23, 2008 by Shawn Van Dyke · Leave a Comment
The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) has launched its Green Remodeling educational program, offering remodeling contractors across the country a unique opportunity to incorporate cost-saving and earth-sustaining green concepts into their clients’ homes.
From the NARI website:
What is Green Remodeling?
· NARI’s approach to teaching Green Remodeling is an all-encompassing approach that emphasizes making a home healthy, comfortable, and efficient. Consideration is given to indoor air quality, energy conservation, resource conservation, reduced material waste, and the use of products that are better for the environment (and for people).
Why Go Green?
· It’s easier on the earth, it lowers costs, and it provides a healthier home in which to live. According to the Sustainable Building Industry Council (SBIC), housing alone consumes 20% of America’s energy.
· Homeowners who choose to remodel green can lower their energy consumption by 30-50%. It’s widely agreed that forests produce 40% of Earth’s oxygen, and that building supplies use 25% of its forests.
· Remodeling green by incorporating recycled materials or sustainable species will help homeowners to tread more lightly on Earth’s natural resources.
· Green remodeling is becoming more popular as homeowners consider health issues, skyrocketing energy costs and Earth’s natural resources.
The article covers the following aspects of Green Remodeling:
- Energy Conservation
- Indoor Air Quality
- Reduced Material Waste and Resource Conservation
- Environmentally Safe Products
Here are ways that you can implement Green Into Your Home:
Non-toxic paints and sealants
Programmable thermostats
Energy efficient appliances
Natural flooring
Local building materials
Natural fiber rugs and fabrics
Recycled material roof shingles and tiles
Energy efficient lighting
Insulated hot water pipes
Tankless water heaters
Quality insulation
Native plants for landscaping
For more information about remodeling and incorporating green elements into your new space, visit the NARI Web site or CONTACT REDBUD Construction Services at 865-250-9172.
About Shawn Van Dyke