When you think of Green Living, most think about benefiting the environment. Going green also benefits homeowners by providing better durability, energy savings, water savings, and improved indoor air quality. Take a look at each of them and how they benefit you as a homeowner.
Durability
A green home should be a durable home that will last a long time. A durable home not only reduces energy and environmental impacts. With the durable building components homeowners will have less work and expenses to maintain their home.
Energy Savings
An average homeowner spends about 8-15% if their budget on utility expenses. Research shows that just switching to green home lighting cuts energy consumption by 50%. You can do more than just switching you lighting. Some energy efficient practices include:
- Tight thermal envelope
- Install smaller HVAC system
- Framing with 2×6 studs which saves heating and cooling energy.
Water Savings
I am sure everyone has heard about ways to save the water especially with the Save the Bay act in Maryland. Going green will reduce the amount of water it takes to live in your home. A couple “green” water savings practices are:
- Installing Energy- Star rated appliances
- Efficient plumbing systems such as reduced hot water runs and high efficiency toilets.
Improved Indoor Air Quality
Going green also means improving your indoor air quality. This is important for people with allergies, asthma, or other chronic health issues. These practices will allow you to achieve better indoor air quality:
- Reduce Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) emissions by using safer household products
- Eliminate mold as much as possible
- Install a Radon – mitigation system that will allow the radon to be excreted outside the home
Green Remodeling is comfortable, efficient, and a healthy way to enhance your home. If you’re interested in going green with your project, contact Post & Beam, your Certified Green Remodeler.