Green Building and Remodeling

For the majority of people, green concepts were not something they were raised with. Sustainability, recycling programs and reducing the carbon footprint were not topics of dinner table discussions or government city halls. Today, many things have changed. Buying local, clean energy, modern transportation, regional agriculture and green building are becoming part of our everyday vocabulary and our schools are educating the future adults of America on the benefits of a sustainable economic model.

Green building and remodeling is becoming consumer driven. Each year it seems that more and more people are asking for green products. Here in Asheville, North Carolina the Western North Carolina Green Building Council has launched Green Built, a program offering a certificate for meeting green building standards. Locally we are seeing a rise of homeowners asking for green built homes and paying more for homes that meet this standard. Green Built NC is recognized as a RESNET Energy Smart Builder Program.

There are a variety of home products that are considered green. From flooring to ceiling and everything in between there is a green product on the market. The most popular products requested at our location include solar hot water heaters, cabinets, flooring (including bamboo, cork & tile), reclaimed wood products, energy star appliances and exterior products.

Do your homework. Many companies will label a product as green or organic. This may not be the case. There are a variety of companies that have product selections that meet green standards and those that don’t. If you are looking for green products for your new home or remodel, work with a builder and home product vendor that has knowledge in green standards.

Green standards at HomeSource Builders include incorporating energy efficient products, water conservation, indoor air quality and the carbon footprint imposed on society in transporting the materials to the job site.

Green building starts with the design of a home. Green homes should be south facing to maximize the power of the sun’s natural energy. Windows, roof overhangs, stone and tile are all products of a passive solar home.

There are 3 simple steps to greening your new home or remodel. 1. Design. 2. Products. 3. Building techniques. Being green is deeper than a product or building standard. Consumers are requesting green products, building techniques and participating in a healthier environment on many levels. Whether taking the plunge to install solar panels or replace products with those that are energy-efficient, there are common trends we are seeing - buy American, save money and live healthier.