Green Home Building has become a staple type of construction for the efficiency and environmentally friendly conscious across the U.S. When deciding to build your new home there are many considerations you and your contractor must make to not only keep it green, but make it comfortable as well. With careful planning and the use of some innovative construction products, you can build the green home of your dreams.
Design Tips for Building Your Dream Green Home
- Be sure to hire a contractor who is familiar with green building, this will save you time and money.
- Make sure the attic has plenty of ventilation. Remember, hot air rises, good ventilation in your attic can help keep your home cooler.
- When installing HVAC equipment, make sure it is environmentally friendly and efficient. For instance, choose HVAC components like geothermal heat pumps and use radiant heat flooring.
- Avoid using chemical rich products. Cabinetry and other fixtures can contain heavy metals, formaldehyde and other chemicals. If possible try building fixtures within your home from reclaimed wood in your area.
- Choose energy efficient appliances. In today’s market washers, dryers, refrigerators and other appliances can be purchased that are environmentally friendly.
- Consider solar power. Tax breaks are not the only benefit solar power provides. Solar power is an efficient and environmentally friendly way to energize your home, and it will save you a ton in utility bills over time.
- Use low VOC or non-VOC stains for fixtures.
- Avoid west-facing construction. This will lower your cooling costs by minimizing sun exposure. Use SIPS or structurally insulated panels when constructing your home. They are not only efficient but lightweight and relatively easy for contractors to install.
- Make good use of windows and skylights. Install plenty of energy efficient windows and skylights to help light your home. This will reduce energy costs and provide added aesthetic appeal to your new home.
For more information on building your green dream home, contact the experts with Hopkins & Porter. The professionals with Hopkins & Porter have extensive experience building beautiful green homes and have transformed the way people lived for over 37 years.
