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Whether we're building new homes or renovating our current homes, terms we hear a lot today are "go "green" or "rehab green"." Also referred to as the "green" Initiative," "going green" means building, rehabilitating, and operating homes with the use of sustainable "green" building principles. Using these principles involves recycling, ensuring energy efficiency and indoor air quality, and implementing an all-around healthy approach when building or remodeling. Although "going green" is usually used in reference to new buildings, the importance of practicing "green" rehab for renovations is now being stressed as just as important. "Green" rehab is part of the process of "green building." "Green building" is the process of building or renovating a home in a way that has a positive impact on the environment, improves the quality of our lives, and costs less to operate. "Green" building" doesn't just begin with the construction of the home, however; it also includes the site chosen for erection of the home, the materials used in the construction, as well as all the fixtures and appliances inside the home. In essence, "green building" involves the entire building life-cycle. Although there are not as many opportunities to implement "green" rehab in renovations as there are when you're building "from scratch," the opportunities are still there and make a significant difference. The Department of Housing and Urban Development strongly recommends and helps homeowners in their desire to comply with "green building" principles. "Green" rehab helps to lower utility costs for residents as well as helping the environment. Other benefits that come from implementing "green" rehab principles into your renovations include lower levels of allergens and mold-related illnesses, lower chance of pest infestations, and, of course, improved indoor air quality. All in all, using "green" rehab materials will not only help the environment, but also save you money and improve the quality of your life, thus improving your health. There are numerous ways for "going green" in your renovations. Here are seven tips for rehabbing "green": Landscaping- Choose plants that require little water or pesticide treatment and use mulch or compost for planting. For the driveway, consider using repaved materials. Lighting- Utilize and install energy-efficient windows and natural lighting as well as energy-efficient light bulbs, when needed. Construction Materials- Use recycled materials for as much of your renovations as possible. Waste management- Allow space for adequate waste management and recycling of household waste. Plumbing- Use dual-plumbing so toilet flushing is getting recycled water or use a gray water system that allows for recovery of rain water. Heating- Use only energy-saving heating and cooling systems. Appliances- Purchase "Energy Star" appliances, which will save energy and money.
There are many more ways you can "go green" with your remodeling projects. There are local agencies in your area and online that can help give you even more tips to help you save money and the environment.
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