Thinking Green When Building a Home

By Tim Smith

There’s a lot to be excited about when it comes to building a home from the ground up. For one, the control over the building materials used. Green is in, and luckily there are a ton of quality building materials that can contribute to creating an energy-efficient home. By keeping the following features in mind when you go through the building process, you’re taking a huge step toward going green and minimizing your impact on the environment.

1. Go Solar

Ideally, your new home should have a southern exposure to the sun to maximize use of energy. With the front of your home facing the sun for most of the day, you can plant trees for natural shade and incorporate skylights to cut your energy bill as much as 10 percent. I recommend checking out DSIRE for solar incentives in your area.

2. Build Smaller

When you’re developing a floor plan, think carefully about use of space. Rather than add more square footage, which increases your environmental footprint, plan to make the best use of a more modest amount of space. A good architect can help you design a small home that feels expansive.

3. Choose Water-Conserving Appliances

State-of-the-art bathroom and kitchen fixtures can dramatically reduce the amount of water you’re using without any noticeable impact to your lifestyle. If you’re building a green home, choose these types of appliances over traditional models.

4. Consider the Building Materials You Use

Most elements from your new home, from the roof to the foundation to the paint, can be constructed with environmentally friendly materials. Do your research and ask your builder to look for products that are toxic-free, sustainable, recycled and low VOC. Also consider incorporating salvaged materials, which are much greener than purchasing newly manufactured items.

5. Raise the Roof

Pick a roofing material that will help deflect the sun’s rays and hold less heat, especially if you live in a hot climate. Consider slate, terra cotta, white tiles, or metal roofing. Some creative builders are even implementing "living roofs," which incorporate plants that actually catch and filter rainwater.

6. Increase Insulation

While building codes in the United States call for a minimal amount of insulation, adding more insulation than required is one of the most important ways you can decrease the environmental impact of your home by saving energy. You can also choose recycled insulation to go even greener. For more information on home insulation click here.

7. Install Energy Star-rated Appliances

Windows and other building elements and appliances can earn an Energy Star rating from the government indicating that they are environmentally sound. These items are great choices when you’re looking for materials for your green home. Here is more information on Energy Star Qualified Products.