How Do I Design a Green Bungalow?
Green design in new home construction and in renovations to existing homes is a fantastic way to save money in the long run, become more eco-friendly and conserve water and energy. Advantages of green homes include a lessened impact on global warming and a reduction in the amount of waste left in landfills. A bungalow, as typically a smaller, one-storey house, can be designed efficiently for green living. Green homes are viewed positively by society and evoke pride in owners who know that they have made a positive choice in life for themselves and for those around them. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Compact florescent bulbs
- Cork or bamboo flooring
- Non-PVC vinyl siding
- Energy Star qualified heating and cooling appliances
Instructions
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Choose a house plan and talk to your builder about ways to make your home more energy efficient. Many experienced builders have ideas on how to "green up" your home and can offer price quotes on the costs of modifications. Building supply sales people know about eco-friendly materials and will help guide you to greener choices. Talk to your local/state/federal government about the availability of tax deductions for individuals who make green choices.
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Choose flooring that comes from a sustainable resource. Flooring made from bamboo is an eco-friendly choice since bamboo trees can reach full maturity in less than 10 years, whereas many other types of trees take 50 to over 100 years to grow to maturity. Planks made from cork are another green choice, as cork is made from a tree bark that regenerates naturally.
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Use any type of siding except PVC vinyl. PVC vinyl is not recyclable and releases toxins into the air when it is produced, according to the Sierra Club Green Home website. A natural siding crafted from a renewable resource is the best choice for the environment. Opt for aluminum, which is recyclable, or wood from a certified harvesting company that responsibly manages the forests from which it harvests.
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Use green lighting in the new or renovated home. According to the Planet Green website, 19 percent of global electricity generation is used for lighting. LED lights use 33 percent less energy than the energy efficient compact florescent lights that are most commonly used in homes today. Green Lighting reports that the most frequently used lights in the home are those in the kitchen, bathroom, living/family rooms and in outdoor lights. Use Energy Star qualified light fixtures and bulbs in these areas to save $65 or more per year on your electrical bills.
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Use a greener source to heat or cool your home. The average home in the United States uses 34 percent of its energy for heating and 11 percent for cooling, according to the Green 3D Home website. One of the best home-heating sources is the sun; install solar panels to capture this energy. For gas, oil or electric furnaces, ensure that the unit is Energy Star qualified. To cool your home, install ceiling fans or use an Energy Star qualified air conditioner.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit house blueprint and house model studio isolated image by dinostock from Fotolia.com
