Learn How Green Practices Keep the Building Process Eco-Friendly
Being green is the end goal for your renovation project, but are you approaching the process in the same way? Construction sites, including your home, can get messy. Remodeling produces a lot of trash. Whether you are completing the work yourself or overseeing a team of professionals, make a commitment to following green renovation and building practices from start to finish.
If aren't a DIY/weekend warrior type, then hiring a team of green professionals can make the construction process go quicker and smoother. By hiring an architect, contractor and possibly also a Home Energy Rater or LEED Consultant, you can relax a little, knowing that your team will have your green interests at heart. To hear from the pros themselves, check out our interview series with green experts.More »
Have a plan for what you're going to do with all your stuff that you have to move out of the way to in order to accommodate the renovation? Consider the alternatives to packing it in wasteful cardboard boxes, and if you need more space, find a green self-storage company in your area.More »
Most renovations involve lots of demolition. Instead of throwing out materials that have seemingly served their useful lives, coordinate with your contractor to establish a construction waste recycling program. Aim to divert as many materials as possible away from the landfill.More »
Certain materials are useful just as they are: architecturally significant elements like doors, windows, plumbing fixtures, hardware and special moldings are hot-ticket items. You can make some decent money for selling them to other renovation enthusiasts via Craigslist or eBay, or by selling them directly to an architectural salvage yard.More »
It takes a little more time and research to determine which materials are considered 'green' and which are not. Work with your green team to select the right materials for your renovation project. Try to source these materials locally, and you'll avoid high shipping fees and of course, wasted fuel.More »
It's nice to use green finish materials, but don't forget about the substrates! Be sure your renovation is green through and through by choosing framing materials, plywood and adhesives hat aren't detrimental to the environment.More »
It's not enough just to buy green materials, like low VOC paint. The way you prep the space and apply these products can make a difference, too. Take the time to learn more efficient ways to work, and the environment will benefit, as well as the indoor air quality of your home.More »
1. Assemble a Green Dream Team
If aren't a DIY/weekend warrior type, then hiring a team of green professionals can make the construction process go quicker and smoother. By hiring an architect, contractor and possibly also a Home Energy Rater or LEED Consultant, you can relax a little, knowing that your team will have your green interests at heart. To hear from the pros themselves, check out our interview series with green experts.More »
2. Pack Green
Have a plan for what you're going to do with all your stuff that you have to move out of the way to in order to accommodate the renovation? Consider the alternatives to packing it in wasteful cardboard boxes, and if you need more space, find a green self-storage company in your area.More »
3. Establish a Construction Waste Recycling Program
Most renovations involve lots of demolition. Instead of throwing out materials that have seemingly served their useful lives, coordinate with your contractor to establish a construction waste recycling program. Aim to divert as many materials as possible away from the landfill.More »
4. Salvage Valuable Materials
Certain materials are useful just as they are: architecturally significant elements like doors, windows, plumbing fixtures, hardware and special moldings are hot-ticket items. You can make some decent money for selling them to other renovation enthusiasts via Craigslist or eBay, or by selling them directly to an architectural salvage yard.More »
5. Use Eco-Friendly Building Materials
It takes a little more time and research to determine which materials are considered 'green' and which are not. Work with your green team to select the right materials for your renovation project. Try to source these materials locally, and you'll avoid high shipping fees and of course, wasted fuel.More »
6. Insist on Green Substrates
It's nice to use green finish materials, but don't forget about the substrates! Be sure your renovation is green through and through by choosing framing materials, plywood and adhesives hat aren't detrimental to the environment.More »
7. Apply Finishes Sustainably
It's not enough just to buy green materials, like low VOC paint. The way you prep the space and apply these products can make a difference, too. Take the time to learn more efficient ways to work, and the environment will benefit, as well as the indoor air quality of your home.More »
Source...