What is green remodeling?

By Robert Robillard on Energy Saving

Green Remodeling

People often talk about building green but what is green remodeling?  Green remodeling is a thinking approach to remodeling with the goal of making the home, its envelope and its mechanical systems work more efficiently with the goal of sustainability.

To live sustainably, the Earth’s resources must be used at a rate at which they can be replenished. 

A house that works efficient means creating a comfortable, aesthetically pleasing home that has some, most or all of the following:

  1.  Conserves energy by lowering heating and cooling costs
  2. Promotes a healthier environment
  3. Uses non-polluting products and reduces the use of fossil fuels
  4. Incorporating energy efficient fixtures and appliances
  5. Using building products that reduce maintenance and replacement
  6. Reduces material waste, and uses of products that are better for the environment (and for people).

If you’re looking to remodel green, take a peek at some ideas I’ve listed in no particular order:

  • Plant trees
  • Exterior caulk your home windows, door and trim
  • Use low or No – VOC paints
  • Replace windows with energy efficient models or triple pane glass
  • Add additional or better insulation
  • Take measures to stop air leaks
  • Install storm doors
  • Use recycled products
  • Install a programmable thermostat with setbacks
  • Update lighting to energy efficient models, motion detectors and light bulbs
  • Install Energy Star water and energy efficient appliances.
  • Install a tank less water heater
  • Replace carpets with Eco-friendly carpets, bamboo or cork flooring
  • Use reclaimed or recycled products such as; wood for counter tops or flooring, doors, radiators, etc.
  • Consider recycled wall board and insulation
  • Reuse roof water run off for irrigation.
  • Plant drought resistant grass and plants
  • Install solar panels
  • Planting shade trees in strategic locations to help cool the house.
  • Use more natural lighting
  • Use recycled plastic decking
  • Install water efficient faucets
  • Build additions with 2×6 lumber to increase insulation

~ concord carpenter

 

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About the author

Robert Robillard

Carpenter / Remodeler / Editor

Rob Robillard is “The Concord Carpenter” Rob is a builder, general contractor, carpenter, woodworker, and editor of Concord Carpenter and ToolBoxBuzz As a General Contractor and carpenter, Rob owns and operates Concord Carpenter LLC. A full-service remodeling and construction company. Rob is a recognized leader in home building best practices and a source for how-to information for building professionals. On this website, Rob covers all aspects of home construction, building science, home improvement, woodworking, remodeling, and some of the best product and tool reviews. Rob is in charge of our Tool and Product Review series - Concord Carpenter Videos where we post all of our tool reviews and video tutorials. Rob approaches remodeling and building construction with a pragmatic and problem-solving approach. He enjoys using his knowledge and experience to help and educate building professionals as well as DIYers on best practices in the construction and remodeling industry. He's a strong advocate for "raising the bar" in the construction trades and promoting the trades to youth. #BeAMentor #Green2Great Craftsmanship, quality, and pride guide his journey on this channel The Concord Carpenter's motto: "Well done is better than well said!" : Read more about Rob

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