The number of "green" housing options continue to expand, you will be happy to learn that you need not give your personal style or taste in order to have more eco-friendly home. In fact, here is a look at some of the green products you might want to consider using in the construction of a new home or when remodeling old.
recycled products
As more and more items are recycled, the number of products that are made from recycled materials also continues to grow. Not only do these products provide an opportunity for other green products, many provide other benefits as well. Rubber and polymer roofing, for example, imitates slate roofs, but weighs less and requires less maintenance. Countertops from recycled glass and concrete, on the other hand, offers a beautiful view, with exceptional durability.
Tree Options
Wooden floors, doors and cabinetry can add a nice touch for your home, but you can reduce the environmental impact of using these products if you choose your tree wisely. Instead of buying products made with old growth timber or from endangered tropical sawmills, look for ones that are made from wood grown in certified and managed forests. Or, better yet, use wood that is recycled or reclaimed from old buildings or riverbeds. Composite products such as hardwood-veneered MDF is another good choice for cabinets and doors. Another option is to buy products that are made from fast-growing wood, like bamboo. Not only is bamboo quite attractive, it is very durable as well.
Decking and fencing
of various materials for outdoor projects has also grown substantially. For example, you can now buy treated lumber that does not use arsenic. As such, the stocks still preserved, but far less toxic to you and the environment. Composite decking and railing, which is made of resin and fiber, is also a good choice. Not only is it easy to install, it will never rot, and it does not require painting.
High-Performance Windows
windows contain low emission (Low-E), glazes cn help reduce energy costs for heating and cooling your home.
Water-saving
appliances with Energy Star rating will help reduce your energy waste significantly, but with the Energy Star-rated front-loading washing machines and dishwashers will also help to reduce water waste. You can further reduce waste water by installing a new toilet that uses only 1.6 gallons of water per flush. Or, you can install toilets that use even less water. In fact, there are some toilets on the market that use only 0.8 gallons per flush. In one year, a toilet that uses 0.8 gallons per flush will usually save a family of four 60,000 gallons compared to 1.6 gallon models.
of photovoltaic panels
can generate power from sunlight using photovoltaic panels, and also enjoys tax exemptions and rebates from your utility company.
The bottom line is that there are many eco-friendly options for those who build houses, or who are remodeling a home that already exists. Exploring options thoroughly, you will be sure to enjoy excellent results.
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