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Green living is not something new, but it is a trend that is now at the forefront of our societal consciousness.  As the price of energy continues to increase, living green is not only something people are doing for its ethical reasons, but for practical reasons as well.  Now there are more options than ever before when it comes to green building materials that are not only great for the environment, but for your pocketbook as well.

1.    Green Roofing Options:  There are so many options available these days when it comes to “green” roofing.  Some manufacturers are using recycled materials to mimic the look of wood or slate shingles.  There are highly reflective roofs, which redirected the sunlight and reduce the energy burden place on a home’s cooling system.  Another growing phenomenon is the truly “green” roof, where a waterproof barier is put on the roof, then covered with soil, and grass and plants grow on the rooftop as an added layer of insulation.

2.    Green Paint:  Standard paints available on the market are full of chemicals that release over time into your home.  Not only that, but paint production significantly impacts the environment in a negative way.  Organic paints are growing in popularity, as are homemade paints.  Finding more sustainable ways to finish your home’s interior will help lessen your impact on the environment.

3.    Green Insulation:  Insulation is an inherently green product, since the ultimate goal of insulation products is to conserve energy and improve air quality within the home.  Many manufacturers of insulation have switched to recycled materials for making insulation.  Recycled denim, newspaper, and fiberglass are hot trends in the market.  These recycled items are treated with far less harmful chemicals and work better than traditional insulation.

4.    Green Flooring:  Green flooring options abound, from bamboo to recycled cellulose, and even cork.  There is also a growing market for reclaiming materials from old structures and reusing them in newer homes.  Linoleum is made from flax seed oil and is very eco friendly.  Tiles made from recycled metal, as well as glass, is another growing market.

5.    Green Plumbing:  Water conservation is of the utmost importance, especially when considering the global warming phenomenon.  Manufacturers of plumbing products are constantly developing newer, more effective fixtures to reduce water flow and maximize efficiency.  Another trend in green plumbing is the tankless water heater, which is extremely effective and has less maintenance issues than a traditional water heater.

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