WHAT GREEN MEANS
Not only do green homes have less impact on the environment, they're cheaper to operate, healthier because they have fewer inside air contaminants, and more comfortable because they're evenly heated and cooled. Plus, you can expect to spend less weekend time on maintenance.
But how do you build a green home? Here are a few ideas gleaned from guidelines issued by the National Association of Home Builders and the Florida Green Building Coalition.
HOME SITE PREPARATION
Many characteristics of a green home are related as much to the ground it sits on as to the structure itself. So proper site preparation is crucial to building a home that is truly environmentally friendly.
Save existing trees if possible, making certain to protect them during the construction process. Removed trees can be turned into mulch on site and used in the landscape.
Grade the soil so that water runs away from the home's foundation, lessening potential problems with mold, rot and termites. Attempt to keep all rain and sprinkler runoff on site, or slow it down so the water can be filtered before it enters waterways through storm drains.
Pay attention to the sun's location when orienting a home, to maximize solar heating and cooling. Southern expanses of roof make ideal locations for solar panels. Trees on the east and west sides help cut cooling costs.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Green homes are conservatively estimated to be 20 percent more efficient than a traditionally built home. But it takes more than installing energy-saving appliances to achieve that.
Design your home so that natural light reaches the inside, thus reducing electrical use. Wide overhangs help shade the home, thereby lowering cooling bills.
Use building products made from recycled materials and from lumber that is harvested from sustainable sources.
Recycle leftover materials, thereby keeping them out of landfills.
Install an efficient heating and air-conditioning system with well-sealed ductwork.
Consider solar energy for hot water or pool heating. Instant-heat tankless water heaters are also more energy efficient.
Use mold-resistant building materials that are new to the market, including special drywall.
Insulate the home well.
Choose Energy Star-rated appliances.
WATER CONSERVATION
The average person uses slightly more than 64 gallons of water a day. Water conservation measures can drop that to less than 45 gallons, making green homes helpful in reducing drought conditions.
Install low-flow toilets and faucets.
Consider eliminating the garbage disposal.
Use less fertilizer- and water-hungry grass and more native and drought-resistant plants. Group plants according to water requirements so they can be watered efficiently.
Take advantage of new, less wasteful sprinkler systems.
Consider installing rainwater capture systems and using "gray" water from washing machines and showers, or reclaimed water in communities where it is available, for watering lawns and flushing toilets.
SUSTAINABILITY
Use products that are renewable. For instance, floors made from bamboo, which grows well and quickly, are greener than those made from slow-growing trees. Floors made from reclaimed lumber, such as heart pine harvested long ago and long lost in rivers on the way to mills, are another good green choice.
INDOOR ENVIRONMENT
Many materials inside homes, including paint, carpeting and fabrics, emit gases called volatile organic compounds (VOC's) for months, even years, after they are installed. VOC's have been linked with health problems, including cancer. There are products available now with low or no VOC's.
For more information on green building, see www.floridagreenbuilding.org or www.nahbrc.org/greenguidelines.