Taperman articles

There is an increasingly popular trend toward the use of green home design. Increasingly, people are paying attention to the environment and are seeking ways to minimize the impact everyday living creates. Major initiatives over the past three decades have raised support and demand for green homes. The increase in demand for green home design from 2005 to 2010 is expected to increase from 2 to 10 percent.

Several key factors are integral to green homebuilding. Reduced use of energy, water and natural resources, integration of renewable energy systems, reduced waste and fewer health risks are all requirements of green home design. Products used in construction must be toxin-free and made from natural or recycled materials. Paints and sealants used in green homes are made with low volatile organic compounds (VOC) while wood and insulation products are made from bamboo, soybeans and cotton, which are quickly replaced in the environment. Windows and doors must have a high E factor rating and energy saving appliances and climate control systems must be installed. A green home design will use natural light to minimize the use of electricity and position trees and awnings, etc. to shield summer sun. Natural and mechanical methods of air ventilation filter and vent the air, keeping it fresh and clean. Many green home designs incorporate the use of renewable energy sources such as solar electric systems. Environmental consideration is given when selecting the site of the home, such as avoidance of fragile ecosystems like wetlands and the preservation of trees and plant growth or reclamation of existing structures or building sites.

The benefits of green home design are difficult to put a price on. Reduction or elimination of internal pollutants, mold, mildew and carcinogens result from the use of toxin-free, natural products and overall design. Due to this pollutant free environment, occupants of green homes experience fewer respiratory and heart problems, allergies and cancer. The ecological-friendly products and resource conservation create fewer green house effects and pollutants, reducing the negative impact on the environment. The advantages of green home design include financial as well as health and environmental benefits since energy and water use is nearly cut in half. With knowledgeable contractors the construction costs are said to be about the same or less than conventional home construction. Additionally, initiatives by private agencies and government to build low cost green homes will further benefit construction costs at all income levels.

As the technology improves, contractors gain experience, and probably most importantly, consumers gain increased awareness, we should expect to see an increased growth in the demand for green home design.

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