Search:

Green Home Design Is In Fashion

There is an increasingly popular trend toward the use of green home design. Increasingly, people are paying attention to the environment and are seeking ways to minimize the impact everyday living creates. Major initiatives over the past three decades have raised support and demand for green homes. The increase in demand for green home design from 2005 to 2010 is expected to increase from 2 to 10 percent.
Several key factors are integral to green homebuilding. Reduced use of energy, water and natural resources, integration of renewable energy systems, reduced waste and fewer health risks are all requirements of green home design. Building materials are made from natural, toxin-free products and recycled components. Paints and sealants used in green homes are made with low volatile organic compounds (VOC) while wood and insulation products are made from bamboo, soybeans and cotton, which are quickly replaced in the environment. Windows and doors have a high Energy Star rating and electric appliances and HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) systems must be energy efficient. The green home design incorporates the use of windows and skylights to take advantage of natural light, with trees and other shading devices used to limit heat from summer sun. Natural and mechanical methods of air ventilation filter and vent the air, keeping it fresh and clean. Many green home designs incorporate the use of renewable energy sources such as solar electric systems. Green homes are often built on previously used parking lots or building sites and wetlands are avoided; existing trees are retained whenever possible.
The benefits of green home design are difficult to put a price on. The design and the natural materials lead to reduced internal pollution, and reduction or elimination of mold, mildew, carcinogens, and respiratory pollutants. Due to this pollutant free environment, occupants of green homes experience fewer respiratory and heart problems, allergies and cancer. The healthier products used and the efficient use of resources cause fewer green house effects and pollution. Besides the health and environmental benefits of green home design, there is approximately 40% reduction in energy and 50% reduction in water use making green homes more economical to run. The cost of building a green home is potentially the same as a conventional home and may even be less. Additionally, initiatives by private agencies and government to build low cost green homes will further benefit construction costs at all income levels.
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.

Article Source: http://www.articleadventure.com

For more info on green home construction, read www.GreenHomeGuide.org.

Please Rate this Article

Not yet Rated