Green Home Design Is In Fashion
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by: hugatree
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Word Count: 429
Green home design is the wave of the future. Consumers are becoming more aware of the negative effect daily living has on the environment, resulting in increased acceptance of the need for change. Over the last 30 years, efforts to develop technology and build more environmentally friendly homes are paying off. New home construction using green home design is expected to increase from 2% in 2005 to 10% in 2010.
There are distinct characteristics required to classify a home as "green". A green home design typically incorporates conservation of energy, water and natural resources, use of renewable energy, waste reduction and a healthier environment. Products used in construction must be toxin-free and made from natural or recycled materials. Paints and sealants have low VOC (volatile organic compound) content, and wood and insulation products are often made from rapidly renewable sources, such as bamboo, soybeans and cotton. Windows and doors must have a high E factor rating and energy saving appliances and climate control systems must be installed. A green home design will use natural light to minimize the use of electricity and position trees and awnings, etc. to shield summer sun. Air quality is freshened and cleaned through use of both natural and mechanical filtering and venting. Many green home designs incorporate the use of renewable energy sources such as solar electric systems. Environmental consideration is given when selecting the site of the home, such as avoidance of fragile ecosystems like wetlands and the preservation of trees and plant growth or reclamation of existing structures or building sites.
Green home design has benefits that outweigh the cost of construction. Reduction or elimination of internal pollutants, mold, mildew and carcinogens result from the use of toxin-free, natural products and overall design. This creates a healthier environment, reducing risks of respiratory, heart and allergy problems and cancer. The ecological-friendly products and resource conservation create fewer green house effects and pollutants, reducing the negative impact on the environment. The advantages of green home design include financial as well as health and environmental benefits since energy and water use is nearly cut in half. With knowledgeable contractors the construction costs are said to be about the same or less than conventional home construction. There are also initiatives to provide low cost green homes which will further improve cost containment to the benefit of all consumers.
As consumers are educated to the benefits of green home design and products and designs improve, more people will choose to build environmentally friendly homes.
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