Building green starts with you
(NC)-Environmental responsibility starts in the home – and there’s no better time to go green than during its construction. Don’t hesitate to pose questions to your builder about the materials, design features, and fixtures. Even as early as constructing the walls, you can eliminate wood, in favour of concrete. Take a look at the innovative, pre-assembled concrete forms supplied by Nudura, for example.
It is reported that this company’s Lego-like system – using foam panels (EPS) held together with polypropylene webs and reinforced concrete – makes construction easier and faster. The Nudura system delivers superior energy performance and for those looking to control allergy-causing mould spores, this concrete alternative eliminates gaps in walls where moisture collects. Additional data shows that buildings using the EPS system are up to nine times stronger, provide far more fire protection, far more sound insulation and can produce energy savings of up to 70 percent.
Consider these “green” building initiatives for your home too:
Indoor Water Conservation:
. Greywater irrigation
. Rainwater harvesting
Energy Efficiency:
. Install efficient ducts, lighting and fans
. Plan for alternative energy systems such as, solar or geo-thermal.
Green Materials:
. Choose fume-free paints, finishes and adhesives
. Floor coverings
. Sidings and trim
Credit: www.newscanada.com