Green Home Improvement: Reduce Your Impact

The "Green Building" movement is defined as building practices that increase the efficiency with which buildings and their sites use energy, water and materials. The green building movement also is concerned about the impact the building has on health and the environment through better siting, design, construction and maintenance through the life cycle of the building.

The green building movement has its roots in the energy crisis of the 1970's. At this time people became interested in saving energy. Better insulation practices, more efficient heating and air conditioning systems were developed. With a heightened awareness of individual impact on the environment, building materials and practices are now being looked at for their environmental footprint.

Can the average homeowner make their home "green?" The answer is a resounding yes there are a number of projects within the reach of the average do-it-yourselfer.

Solar Shingles

A great place to start with the greening of your residence would be a rooftop solar installation. Solar shingles are a wise choice. They are relatively easy for the average handyman to install. They can provide you with all your electrical needs. You might even be lucky enough to see your meter spinning backward, resulting in a payment from your local electric utility. Solar shingles are silent, long lived, up to 40 years. The best feature of all is that you may, with installation of solar shingles, be eligible for tax credits and rebates from your local electric provider. Solar shingles will be a great selling pint for your home. They will add about 10% to the value of your home.

Solar Hot Water

Solar hot water is a great way to save over 50% on your hot water heating costs. Not only will you save money but you will be harnessing the renewable energy of the sun. Because of this, you will reduce your carbon footprint because you will use substantially less fossil fuel to heat your water. Solar hot water heaters have an approximate life of 20 years, are easily installed and maintained and add an approximate value of 10%-14% to your home.

Whole House Fans