Green Homes as Much about Lifestyle as Building Standards

 Lifestyle plays as much a part in the building, renovation and purchase of every home as building standards. Green homes are built and positioned in such a way as to take advantage of natural environment and resources as much as possible. Most people go green to save money on utility bills and keep their health intact. Green homes are often air-sealed, to keep heat and cool air in, but without proper ventilation, this means poor indoor air quality. Proper ventilation will allow circulation of fresh air, but will keep out dust, mold spores, noise, and allergens that lead to asthma attacks and aggravate sufferers of all types of breathing problems. When you choose a builder, make sure they are an experienced green builder with a portfolio of their projects to show you. A portfolio of their projects that you can see means you can be assured of all the quality and luxury you want in your home without sacrificing comfort, health or appearance to green building standards. Green standards are tougher than common standards. Common standards will meet building code standards in your area and pass inspections, but they are not environmentally- friendly in their choices of materials. For example, a green builder will use non-toxic paints and sealants that do not contain formaldehyde or other harmful chemicals that cause illness or harm the environment. Common builders are not so careful. Most building codes today require that walls and attics be insulated. A good, experienced green builder will use spray on insulation that is safe. Common builders use fiberglass insulation that will eventually break down and cause poor air quality due to fiberglass dust, or there could be Styrofoam insulation that is neither recycled nor sustainable. It’s not always easy to go green, but it is worth it in the long run for both the environment and your family’s long-term health.