Green House Building Practices

Estimates put 40% of the fossil fuels used are consumed by heating, cooling and operating buildings.  When you consider the amount of fuel typically used to transport materials and construct the buildings, the percentage is even higher, especially during a construction boom.

Architects focused on environmentally friendly designs consider all of those things and more.  Communities have been designed to encourage occupants to use public transportation or car-sharing programs. 

Some communities discourage the use of private automobiles by limiting available parking.  People with electric and other energy-efficient vehicles are more likely to get the parking spaces available.  To make using electric autos easier, the designers included outlets at each parking space.

The most environmentally friendly buildings are water efficient, as well.  While water shortages have yet to become a problem in most areas, scientists believe they will become a big problem in some parts of the world within the next decade, unless consumption is reduced now.

Choosing recycled materials or those from renewable resources such as bamboo is an element of green building, but only if the materials are available locally.  Bamboo flooring has become popular for homes.  It is an ideal construction material, because the plants grow quickly, ready for harvesting in just a few years in many cases. 

But if the flooring must be imported, the energy used for transportation must be considered.  The push to buy locally has to do with more than supporting the local economy.  It has to do with energy conservation.

Fitting houses with solar panels has become easier.  The panels are more efficient and affordable than ever before.  The use of solar panels in carbon neutral building can even generate income for the occupants.  If the panels are able to produce more electricity than is consumed by the household, the extra can be sold to the local utility grid.

Windows, doors and walls should be well insulated.  Appliances in the home should be energy efficient.  A new rating system for appliances and insulation makes it easier for consumers to compare the products.  Look for the energy star and you may be eligible for a rebate on your income taxes.

Although the greenest house building practices have yet to become common, many architects are making an effort.  If you are thinking about buying a new home, think about energy conservation, your efforts will pay off for you and for future generations.