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Homeowner Benefits in Using Eco Friendly Building Materials

•      Hire professionals (contractors, builders, designers, electricians, plumbers, architects) who are LEED trained and can manage the process of building practices that enhance the green lifestyle.  LEED, developed by the U.S. Green Building Council, provides third-party verification that a building or community was designed and built using strategies, products, and practices aimed for conscientious consumption; it is a concise framework for identifying and implementing practical and measurable building design, construction, operations and maintenance solutions. 
•        Do your homework when selecting interior finishes such as paints and varnishes.  Research everything to make sure it resists mold and does not release volatile organic compounds.  You will benefit from cleaner indoor air quality which translates to fewer asthma, skin sensitivities, allergies, and other upper respiratory health problems
•        Look for eco-friendly kitchen and bathroom cabinetry.  They are available in a variety of styles and finishes.  Look for cabinets made from wood that is LEED certified, are formaldehyde-free, and used only water based glues and low-to-no volatile organic compounds.  Choose cabinets that are made from recycled and Forest Stewardship Council certified wood finished in natural oil or wax and select drawers and cabinet pulls and knobs made from 100 % recycled glass, stones or recycled brass.  This is your reduce, reuse, and recycle parts.
•      Energy conservation is an activity of daily living process.  Buy and use Energy Star appliances.  Energy Star is the joint product of the U.S. Energy Department and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.  Their energy-efficient appliances will significantly cut energy costs through out the life of your home which translates to money savings to you.
•      Use water-saver features, which are widely available in your local hardware stores, in shower head, faucets, and toilets.  You will save on water bills and reduce your part on consumption of the limited water resource.
•       Xeriscaping or using native plants in your landscaping will significantly reduces the need for watering, fertilizers, and herbicides.  Talk with your local gardeners or nurseries.  One tree can filter 60 pounds of pollutants from the air each year.  You can erase your carbon footprint from the planet this way.