| The latest trend in building, both residential and | | | | A green house can be slightly more expensive during |
| commercial, is green construction. Earth friendly, | | | | initial construction, but the energy savings can make |
| sustainable construction is being hailed as the way of | | | | up for the costs rapidly. Long term benefits make |
| the future. Major changes in the way buildings are | | | | the homes appealing to many people. |
| constructed as well as in the materials used are | | | | If you currently have a home and aren't planning on |
| becoming a priority for many people. Green homes | | | | building a new one, there are several improvements |
| can be vastly different from traditional homes. | | | | you can make on your current home to make it |
| Several trends have become industry standard and | | | | greener and more efficient. Here are some of the |
| are helping make the homes more energy efficient | | | | most popular: |
| and healthier. Here are a few of the major features | | | | Cotton insulation can be installed in place of traditional |
| you are likely to find in a green building. | | | | fiberglass types. Cotton is just as effective but much |
| Steel frames, which are stronger and more | | | | safer and more Earth friendly. |
| sustainable than wood are replacing the traditional | | | | If you must replace your roof, opt for redwood |
| wood framed models. Steel is also impervious to | | | | shingles that are reclaimed from old lumber. These |
| mold, making it a healthier choice. | | | | shingles prevent the destruction of thousands of |
| Heating and air conditioning systems are now coming | | | | trees each year and are beautiful. |
| with HEPA filters installed. The filters can reduce | | | | Traditional smoke detectors use radioactive materials |
| many of the allergens found in our homes. | | | | which are certainly not Earth friendly. New models |
| Special energy efficient windows have greatly | | | | avoid these impossible to dispose of isotopes. |
| reduced the amount of air exchange, making the | | | | Improve your home's air quality by replacing ordinary |
| homes easier to heat and cool. These windows also | | | | heating and air conditioning filters with HEPA filters. |
| block out UV rays. | | | | When it comes time to replace that old, dirty carpet, |
| Kitchen and bathroom sinks are being fitted with | | | | replace it with ceramic tiles. These are the trend in |
| filters, purifying municipal water supplies that are | | | | modern design and are much healthier, especially for |
| dropping in purity. | | | | those who suffer from allergies. |
| Traditional carpeting and vinyl flooring is being | | | | The green movement is here to stay. Even if you |
| replaced with ceramic tiles or hardwood flooring. | | | | aren't overly concerned about global warming, the |
| Carpets are notorious for their off gassing and are | | | | health benefits gained from modern construction |
| extremely difficult to keep clean. | | | | methods can make green right for you. |