Handy Tips To A Grand Green Home

A well-designed green home construction requires consideration of several factors, which must be incorporated in the initial structuring stages. Using eco-friendly raw materials is an important management measure in the construction of green homes. This could include using high fly ash content cement instead of normal cement. Wood salvaged from old buildings and reengineered wood can be used in constructing a green home. It is best to incorporate the green features during the construction phase. This also involves installation of a drip irrigation system for landscaping instead of the usual sprinkler system. Investing in a rainwater harvesting system is yet another step toward going Green. To aid absorption of rainwater into the surrounding soil, pathways, and roadways can be made out of permeable paving material.
Using Forest Stewardship Council (SFC) certified wood for all wooden fittings in the house is favorable to a green house construction. Even employing no/low formaldehyde based paints for the interiors of the house helps in creating healthier living conditions. Harnessing the power of the sun by fitting solar heaters and photovoltaic cells helps reduce electricity consumption and lower bills. It is better to fit light colored roofs than dark colored roofs because they are more reflective and thus reduce buildup of heat inside the house. Light colored roofs do not undergo as much thermal expansion as dark colored roofs and hence last longer.
Green Home construction need to also address the inside fittings of the house, both static as well as movable. In house furniture can be made from recycled wood. Garden furniture can be made out of recycled plastic, which is easily available in the market. A green initiative gaining popularity is using cork or bamboo flooring instead of the usual hardwood flooring. Avoid using vinyl linoleum, natural linoleum is a better choice. Leak proof ducting helps in conservation of energy. Ducting leaks cause over 10% of energy losses in a house. Fitting flow reducers to faucets and shower heads and low volume flushes helps reduce 40% consumption of water without anybody noticing the difference. Formaldehyde free wall and ceiling insulation help reduce sickness. One good material for insulation is cellulose insulation made out of recycled paper.
In a green home construction, effective use is made of low emissive double paned windows. Double paned windows not only provide more insulation but also help make the house quieter. The frames of windows should be made of wood as these provide more insulation. A piping jacket helps reduce heat loss. Use these tips to make your home truly green.

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