What is Green Building?
There is a great deal of interest in “green building”. But, what exactly is green building and how do you know if your builder is really complying with green building standards.
Green building can be defined in a number of ways. The goal of most people is to build their home with the least impact on the environment and promote indoor health and energy efficiency. This can be accomplished in many ways such as the use of natural materials that are free of toxins and low in VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds); using high energy efficiency products such as SIP (Structural Insulated Panels) and Low E windows; utilizing energy efficient appliances and HVAC systems and installing effacement sprinkler and water systems.
Most new construction is utilizing some form of green building. Builders and developers are recognizing that there is real value to the consumer in building green. But, how do you know if your home is really being constructed using the latest green building techniques.
The best way to insure that you are getting the real thing is to use a third party inspector or certifier under a recognized program. ENERGY STAR is a program that has been around for some time and takes into consideration the energy efficiency of the home. Another third party verified program is the LEED program. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) was developed and is administered through the U.S. Green Building Council. It is the most comprehensive and well recognized third party verified green building program available and has been used in commercial construction for a several years. The USGBC has recently started LEED for Homes which is a pilot program established for residential structures.
The National Association for Home Builders (NAHB) has a green building program that is currently a self regulated checklist not requiring third party verification. However, the NAHB is now developing a certified program that is expected to be published later this year.
Mountain Architects and PrecisionCraft are members of the USGBC and NAHB. We have been involved in the LEED for Homes pilot program, Energy Star and the NAHB green building initiatives. If you are interested in green building or getting more information on building a green log home, contact PrecisionCraft for further information.