Today’s Homes Are Built And Modified “Eco”nomically
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As energy prices increase and the nation searches for cheaper renewable resources, the housing industry has been improving the way it builds and remodels homes. Today’s homes and building materials are more environmentally responsible than ever–conserving resources, using recycled materials and building for longevity.
The National Association of Home Builders reports the following “green” innovations. Be sure to look for them if you’re shopping for a new home or consider installing them if you’re remodeling or repairing a home you already own.
More-durable roof coverings
such as steel and fiber-cement
More and better insulation
in walls and attics, conserving energy, lowering utility bills and reducing pollution related to energy production
OSB (Oriented Strand Board) and laminated fiberboard
made from smaller younger trees, replacing plywood on roofs and board sheathing in walls, both made from larger, older trees
Greater use of carpet, sheet vinyl and laminates
rather than wood flooring that taxes lumber supplies
Foundation insulation
to reduce energy loss while providing more-comfortable floors
Insulated exterior doors and windows with insulating and low-E glass
to keep homes more comfortable and energy efficient
Vinyl siding and fiber cement siding
, reducing the use of cedar, redwood and other wood products
- High-efficiency heating, cooling, and water-heating equipment
to cut energy consumption
- Water-saving appliances and plumbing fixtures
to reduce water use. They also require less energy to heat water
Factory-built components
, such as trusses and pre-hung doors, resulting in more-economical use of materials than cutting wood on the job site
- Recycled plastic “lumber”
instead of weather-resistant woods (e.g., redwood) for decks, porches, trim and fencing
High-efficiency refrigerators
that use less energy and operate using refrigerants that have less potential impact on the ozone layer
Passive solar designs
using the sun’s “free” energy to help heat homes
Xeriscaping
, which employs native plants that can thrive with little or no extra watering
Tree preservation
around homes to provide shade, reducing summer energy costs.
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