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Green Remodeling Solutions
Our clients often wish to remodel in a manner that conserves natural resources, increases energy efficiency, and improves indoor air quality.
In 2007, approximately 33 percent of solid waste generated in Washington was construction and demolition debris. Energy use from buildings is responsible for between 30 and 40 percent of U.S. energy consumption, and resulting contributions to air pollution and global climate change (U.S. Department of Energy).
Many traditional building materials also contribute to poor indoor air quality. Americans spend approximately 90% of their time indoors, where pollution levels can be two to five times higher than outdoors (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency). Much of this pollution originates from building materials and finishes chosen during construction.
We find practical green-remodeling solutions to these problems.
Green remodeling uses a whole-system approach to planning, designing, and selecting products for your remodel. Going green does not have to be an all-or-nothing proposition. We find cost-effective ways to minimize construction-related waste, create a healthier and more durable home, reduce building operating costs, and support local manufacturers and suppliers of resource-efficient and non-toxic building materials.
Visit our GREEN BUILDING PAGE and our GREEN REMODELING GALLERY page.
Consider these Green Solutions for your next Remodeling Project:
Wood is one of the most common building materials, but is often used wastefully. Did you know that 95% of the nation’s old growth forests have been harvested? Engineered lumber products such as wood I-joists, wood fiber laminates and oriented strand board, utilize fast growing farm trees as an alternative to old-growth forests. These products can use as little as 50% of the wood fiber to perform the same structural functions and are typically stronger, straighter and lighter than solid-sawn lumber. Also, using wood that is Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified assures that the forest from which the wood is produced is managed in an environmentally and socially responsible manner. Recycled-content decking, insulation, reclaimed lumber, and other products also divert waste from landfills, while providing quality and durability that often exceed conventional materials.
Energy efficiency is a cornerstone of any green remodeling project. The first step is to add insulation and weather stripping wherever possible, install double-glazed/low-E windows and upgrade to high-efficiency appliances such as tank-less water heaters and ductless heat pumps. Other energy upgrades/choices include installing solar water heaters, solar, and purchasing “green power” through net metering.
Poor indoor air quality can be caused by the off-gassing of chemicals found in many building materials as well as mold and mildew that build up in homes due to poorly designed and maintained heating and cooling systems. One of the most common indoor pollutants is formaldehyde, a suspected human carcinogen. Kitchen cabinets, counter tops, shelving and furniture are typically made from particleboard held together by formaldehyde-based adhesives. Many paints and floor finishes also contain unhealthy volatile organic compounds (VOCs). More and more alternative paint, finish, and adhesive products are available today. Solvent-free adhesives used in flooring and counter tops can eliminate many of the suspected and known human carcinogens. Paints, varnishes, and cleaners that don’t utilize volatile compounds are now commonly available from most major manufacturers at costs comparable to conventional products.
Learn more about green remodeling components and design: Click HERE (published by the Alameda County, CA Waste Management Authority).
Visit our GREEN BUILDING PAGE and our GREEN REMODELING GALLERY page.
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