Can This Home Be Greened: Room To Breathe

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2. Find the right designer and builder. These people can make or break your project. When choosing a designer, make sure he or she knows what you want—and can give it to you. Green design solutions require a different way of thinking, and a green design won’t be effective unless a competent builder uses good construction practices.

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3. Address moisture issues. Moisture in walls or attics can lead to mold, reduced thermal efficiency and wood rot. Taking steps to flash and seal exterior walls and roofs properly can save energy and increase your house’s lifespan.

4. Keep it small. Large homes demand more energy and have a larger environmental impact than modestly sized homes. Find ways to use spaces for more than one purpose; if you need to add on, don’t build more than is necessary. Certain design techniques give the impression of space without increasing the actual house size.

RESOURCES:

Abrams Design Build, (202) 726-5894
HVAC systems at 
Carrier Corporation 
Spray-foam insulation at Icynene, (800) 758-7325
Cement-fiber siding at 
James Hardie, (888) 542-7343
Sun Tunnel skylights at 
Velux 
Windows and doors at Weather Shield 

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