TOUCHES OF GREEN

GREEN REMODELING helps consumers remodel their homes in a way that respects the environment through improving energy and water efficiency, building with sustainable materials and making a home healthy, comfortable and efficient. Consideration is given to indoor air quality, energy conservation, resource conservation, reduced material waste, and the use of products that are better for the environment (and for people).

BENEFITS OF GREEN REMODELING

  • Reduces operating costs in the home by increasing efficiency
  • Conserves natural resources
  • Increases the value of the home
  • Improves indoor air quality and in turn, overall health
  • Reduces waste
  • Reduces emissions costs
  • Increases productivity of occupants
  • Improves quality of life

Adding solar panels to your house increases efficiency

Adding solar panels to your house increases efficiency

 

WHY GO GREEN?

It's easier on the earth, it lowers costs, and it provides a healthier home in which to live. According to the Sustainable Building Industry Council (SBIC), housing alone consumes 20% of America's energy. Homeowners who choose to remodel green can lower their energy consumption by 30-50%. It's widely agreed that forests produce 40% of Earth's oxygen, and that building supplies use 25% of its forests. Remodeling green by incorporating recycled materials or sustainable species will help homeowners to tread more lightly on Earth's natural resources.

IMPLEMENTING GREEN

Green remodeling can be done in small ways and doesn't necessarily have to encompass the entire home. It's easy to pick and choose elements that fit each particular homeowner.  Here are a few examples:

  • Energy efficient windows
  • Non-toxic paints and sealants
  • Programmable thermostats
  • Energy efficient appliances
  • Natural flooring
  • Local building materials
  • Natural fiber rugs and fabrics
  • Recycled material roof shingles
  • Recylced material tiles
  • Energy efficient lighting
  • Insulated hot water pipes
  • Tankless water heaters
  • Quality insulation
  • Native plants for landscaping
  • Ultra low-flow toilets
  • Improved ventilation
  • Tubular skylights

MORE WAYS TO BE GREEN:

  • Change air filters in your home often
  • Clean the lint filter in your dryer
  • Replace old windows
  • Upgrade to fluorescent bulbs
  • Take shorter showers
  • Wear more clothing when you get cold instead of turning up the thermostat
  • Choose products with less packaging
  • Recycle, Recycle, Recycle

Build a Green House

WEBSITES

Visit these web sites for more Green information:
http://www.ecohomemagazine.com
http://planetgreen.discovery.com
http://www.treehugger.com/green-basics/

FIND YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT

Your carbon “footprint” is a measurement of your environmental impact in terms of the amount of greenhouse gas you produce.  Measure your individual carbon footprint using Dominion Virginia Power’s carbon calculator.  Visit www.dom.com.  Keyword: calculator.