Home Completion

When the foundation is down and the walls are up, the chances to make environmentally positive choices are just beginning. Whether inside or out, finish materials can make a big difference. Get a thorough review of the choices available and the pros and cons of each. Plumbing, electrical and mechanical decisions made now will influence energy use for the life of the home. The positioning and construction methods chosen for features such as porches, stairs, ramps, and concrete flatwork have the potential for enhancing livability on a day to day basis while achieving green goals for the project as well.

Interior Wall and Trims

This is an area with multiple opportunities to make greener choices and at the same time get valuable results such as exceptional strength, less vulnerability to fire, and even lower costs. Whether you're choosing natural materials such as straw bale, adobe or cobb or using more traditional materials in ways that minimize waste, the choices are examined for benefits and challenges.

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Exterior Finishes

Get the facts on the environmental effects of using vinyl, solid-sawn wood and plastic, and introduce yourself to new available alternatives such as stucco, cement board, metal siding, recycled wood, and styrofoam-concrete mixes.

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Plumbing, Electrical & Mechanical

The systems and appliances installed in a home have a significant ongoing effect on the amount of energy it will take to live there. Understand what the Energy Star and other ratings programs can tell you, and become aware of the big and little opportunities to make choices in the direction of creating a healthy, energy saving environment. Ductwork may not be the most visible aspect of your project, but how it is designed and installed has a large effect on energy costs. Heating and cooling options, including solar, are explored. Know what you need to know to have a successful outcome when consulting with outside experts is indicated.

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Porches, Stairs & Ramps

Thoughtful placement and the use of environmentally sensitive materials for these elements minimizes the use of nonrenewable resources, and yields substantial additional benefits as well: over the life of the feature, there will be less likelihood of problems with splinters, termites, UV damage, expensive maintenance and slippery conditions when wet. Learn about the specific properties of a wide range of currently available products for decks and other outdoor uses.

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Finishes

Avoiding toxic materials and energy wasting appliances is important, but how can you accomplish these goals and still meet the needs of affordability, attractiveness, and durability? All the major categories are covered, with information on best products, practices and even suggestions on how to dispose of unused materials wisely: appliances, lighting fixtures, floor coverings, and wall treatments such as paint, paneling and cabinetry. Learn what you need to know to deal with governmental regulations concerning these efforts, and how make the best choices for your specific project

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Concrete Flatwork

Gray can be green! Decorative concrete flatwork can be used as an affordable alternative to brick or flagstone and can be used for driveways, sidewalks and patios. Because it is recyclable and has value at the end of it's use cycle in landfill situations, it has much to offer the green design team when considering choices for paths and patios. Learn how to adapt it for greater benefits; making it porous to help with water management, as well as using light colors to cut down on heat absorption.

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