Green Remodeling, by John D. Wagner, is an easy-to-read project book that will inspire homeowners to make environmentally-friendly home improvement choices for their next remodeling project. Whether starting from scratch or simply making green improvements, this book will be a handy reference.
How Green is Different
There are some confusing labels on the market today when it comes to green products. While it may seem that anything can be called green, the following are principles of the green movement that are explained in Green Remodeling, along with product categories and suggestions for each:
- Improve overall air quality
- Incorporate energy efficiency
- Conserve natural resources
Building Basics
Quality craftsmanship is as important to a home-improvement project as making good product choices. Green Remodeling explains the best building practices for every aspect of a project, ensuring lasting construction.
Lighting & Plumbing
Power-saving devices and switching systems can be installed to lower utility costs as well as reduce pollution. Save water by installing low-flow fixtures, tankless water heaters and programmable systems. All of these products are explained, with accompanying photographs, in Green Remodeling.
Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning
Replacing a boiler, furnace or air conditioner with a new model will improve efficiency, but complementary systems, such as insulation, should be taken into consideration as well. The basics of heating and cooling equipment are explained in Green Remodeling.
Trim & Finishes
Installing trim, painting or finishing wood in a house can present a homeowner with some of the most environmentally-damaging choices in a remodel project. There are some surprising new products on the market today that can make even this aspect of remodeling green.
Kitchens & Baths
Home kitchens and bathrooms are two of the most popular remodeling projects, and they offer plenty of opportunity to make green choices. Consider energy-efficient appliances, green countertops and green substrates in cabinetry.
Exteriors
Choose products for the exterior of a house that are green, durable and can be integrated into the home's structure. From siding to decks and roof shingles, consider long-term performance and environmental impact as well as cost.
Summary
The home improvement series by Creative Homeowner does a consistently good job of producing compact books that are comprehendible, friendly, and a pleasure to read. Green Remodeling continues in that path by helping homeowners become knowledgeable about a whole new world of environmental designs and products. Readers are in good hands with this author who is also the cofounder of Green Builder Magazine.
Title: Green Remodeling
Author: John D. Wagner
Publisher: Creative Homeowner, 2008, 207 pgs., $19.95
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