Why Build Green?

Low Construction Impact – The building industry uses more material and creates more pollution than any other industry in the world. Often trees need to be cleared and the lot reshaped before building even begins. Then large amounts of materials from all over the world are used to produce these structures. Green building aspires to make careful, conscious decisions during site planning and house design to enhance and protect the local ecosystem. Green Building also seeks to choose materials that are sustainable and renewable.

Energy-Efficiency – One of the many goals of building green is to create buildings that are tight, well insulated, and well ventilated. This creates a home that takes less energy (using fewer natural resources) to heat and cool. Also, in line with conserving natural resources, green buildings tend to utilize energy-efficient lighting, appliances, and heating/cooling systems. This translates to lower monthly energy bills for the consumer. There are even energy-efficient mortgages and grants available for qualifying homes.

Non-Toxic Indoor Environment – Indoor air quality can be greatly compromised by the spread of mold behind walls, in the basement, and in the ventilation system. Mold is an especially large issue in this area because we have consistently high humidity levels. Green building takes special measures to ensure that the home stay tight and dry, thus greatly reducing the chance of mold. This also helps combat the problem of allergies.

Another factor in indoor air quality is the toxic gasses that emit from many of the conventional items used to furnish a home. Wood glues used in furniture, cabinets, wall paneling, shelves, plywood and countertops can emit formaldehyde for years after they are installed.

Other common culprits for toxic fumes are paint and carpet. Green Building aims to use products that reduce or eliminate the V.O.C.s (volatile organic compounds) emitted by these products.