Green” homes are sprouting everywhere. Each day, more homeowners are convinced that implementing energy-efficient and resource-efficient design and construction techniques in residential construction is the right path to take.
The National Association of Homebuilders broadly defines green building as constructing homes in a manner that conserves resources. Although green building can affect virtually every aspect of the development and construction process, as well as the physical structure of the house, it is not an all-or nothing proposition. Green building projects typically incorporate at least one of the following:
Land planning and design techniques that preserve the natural environment and minimize disturbance of the environment;
Site development methods that reduce erosion, minimize paved surfaces and runoff and protect vegetation, especially trees;
Water conservation systems, both indoors and outdoors;
Energy-efficient heating/cooling systems, appliances, lighting and building envelope;
Material selection based on recyclability, durability and the amount of energy used to create the material;
Waste reduction, reuse and recycling during construction and throughout the life of the home. Green building practices vary by location because of differences in climate, availability of materials and local customs and preferences.