Green Building Features
There are numerous ways to incorporate GREEN BUILDING FEATURES into remodeling projects and new construction. Below are just a few of the features to choose from that can increase the efficiency and "greening" of your home.
- Closed Crawl Spaces
- Engineered Wood Products
- Energy Efficient Heating & Air Equipment
- Energy Efficient Windows ( low-E glass )
- Energy Efficient Lighting
- Increased R-value of Insulation
- Tankless Water Heater
- Low Flow Water Plumbing Fixtures
- Showerheads; Faucet Aerators; Dual Flush Toilets
- Energy Star Appliances ( 30% more efficient )
- Front loading washers ( use 40% less water & 50% less energy )
- Low VOC (volatile organic compounds) Paints & Carpets
- Natural Wood Floors
- Water based floor finishes
- Recycled plastic lumber and wood composite ( decks, porches, trim and fencing )
- Local Products
- Recycling waste materials
Energy-Efficient Features
Many of the energy-efficient qualities of a green home are easy to spot. Appliances, windows, and water heating systems will likely have ENERGY STAR® ratings. The home should also include efficient lighting fixtures and bulbs. Renewable energy sources, such as photovoltaic electricity and water heating systems, further decrease the overall energy consumption within the home.
Water-Efficient Features
Fixtures and appliances such as low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets, and ENERGY STAR dishwashers and washing machines all conserve water. Programmed, low-volume irrigation systems, rainwater collection systems, wastewater treatment systems, and hot water recirculation systems also save water.
Resource-Efficient Features
These decisions-from home size, to orientation on the lot, to floor plan layout-are made in the design of your home and development of the lot. The house orientation and design should take advantage of natural daylight to reduce lighting needs, and should use strategies to reduce heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the winter. The home should contain renewable materials, including rapidly-renewable wood species such as bamboo, and recycled-content materials in carpets, tiles, and concrete formulations.
Indoor Air Quality Features
The heating, air conditioning and ventilation system (HVAC) must be appropriately sized for an efficient and properly ventilated home. Fans in the kitchen and bathrooms should cycle fresh air inside, and release stale air. Low-VOC paints and finishes and wall papers should be used as well.
Outside the Home
In a green home, care should be taken to preserve trees and other vegetation native to the area. Landscaping should contain plants that are appropriate for the climate, and grouped according to water needs. Driveways and other impervious surfaces should be reduced as much as possible, and may be composed of gravel, permeable block pavers, grids, or other permeable systems.
How A Home Becomes GREEN