By Marjie O'Connor
The National Association of Home Builders predicts that by the end of this year, half of all builders will call themselves green builders. However, don't expect to see geothermal systems in 50 percent of new developments or solar panels on every other house. Green building includes such practices, of course, but it also encompasses doing the same things that builders have done for decades — but better.
Building scientists emphasize that no matter what green technology a builder chooses, it must be used as part of the overall "system" of the house. Green building demands thinking of a house as a system; all of the components must work effectively to get the greatest efficiency. The whole house truly is greater than the sum of the parts.
A little research (HGTVPro.com is a great resource) goes a long way in determining how your projects can be green. Contrary to a common belief among builders and homeowners, green building doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. A few changes can make a big difference.
For example, let's assume that a builder has made the commitment to provide a high-performance building envelope. Does it follow that he has to learn about expensive, cutting-edge materials and techniques? Not necessarily. If a builder is using fiberglass batts for insulating his houses, he can continue to do so. A few simple changes, such as splitting and cutting the batts to fit snugly around penetrations, making sure the batts completely fill all cavities, and installing proper air sealing materials, can make this familiar form of insulation much more energy-efficient — and therefore much greener.
Similarly, just paying attention to basic tenets of green building — site selection, resource efficiency, indoor air quality, and energy efficiency — can make a big difference. Green builders consider the following questions: Which way does the house face? Do the framers conserve lumber by using best practices? Which materials will have the least effect on indoor air quality? And just how large do the HVAC system and water heater have to be?
Of course, if you're already covering the basics of green building, you may be looking for information about more sophisticated technologies. For example, there's no doubt that the use of solar panels can cut a home's demand for electricity dramatically. Check out our article and Best Practices video to learn more about installing them. Want to find out more about those geothermal heating and cooling systems? We have information about them, too.
Whether you're just getting started in green building or looking to move to the next "shade" of green, we think you'll get a good start here.
Marjie O'Connor, editor of original content for HGTVPro.com, has more than 12 years of experience writing about the building and construction industry.
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