Earth Day is next week, Wednesday, April 22, 2015. It is a day when events are held worldwide to demonstrate support for environmental protection. What better place to start being environmentally conscious in your new custom built home?  Today, more than ever, homeowners are aware of the effects that appliances, heating and cooling systems and lawns have on our planet’s fossil fuels. By building a more eco-friendly home, you can not only help the environment, but also cut costs.

Today we will look at some top home-efficiency tips that work with all budgets.

Building an Eco-Friendly Custom Home in Milwaukee

Energy–Efficient Windows:

These windows separate the climate-controlled air in your home from the air outside.  Top end windows are insulated, tinted and multi-paneled to produce a custom window that is very energy efficient.

Grow an Eco-Friendly Lawn:

Use native plants as ground cover rather than bagged grass seed. Frame your lawn with beds of wildflowers. These tips will have you using less fertilizer (which leach into the groundwater, affecting drinking water and pollution) and less need for mowing and using fuel that create harmful emissions.

Easy on the Water:

According to Consumer Reports, nearly a third of the home’s energy consumption is used heating water. An efficient water heater is an effective investment in cutting this consumption. Tankless water heaters that heat the water as needed instead of storing it in a chamber are the most efficient option.

Control Your Temperature:

“Smart” thermostats allow you to monitor and control the temperature throughout the day and night. The latest and greatest can be controlled by your smart phone to monitor and program other appliances in the home, such as your water heater.

Choose Energy Efficient Equipment:

The ENERGY STAR label on any appliance or equipment means the Environmental Protection Agency has deemed it energy efficient. It is a well-known label that offers energy savings while still providing high-functioning and well-performing appliances.

Sustainable Building Materials:

Choose eco-friendly products, which will reduce the impact of construction on the environment. Choose roofing and building materials, counters, cabinets, counters and insulation that are environmentally friendly. Products to consider: recycled tile, bamboo, cork, reclaimed lumber, recycled plastic… all these products are made of natural materials (learn more about flooring options here).

Eco-Friendly Lighting:

LED and CFL cost more initially but use less energy and last longer than traditional light bulbs. These are the right choice for a green home.

Conserve Water with Your Fixtures:

Low flow toilets, faucets and showerheads can be installed to conserve water in your new green home. They cut your water bills down, too. Washing machines and dishwashers that are ENERGY STAR will also save on water and energy.

By going green and choosing eco-friendly options for your new home, you will also save money and have less of a negative impact on the environment.  When designing your dream, custom home, be sure to discuss how you can make your home as environmentally friendly as possible. Colby Construction can help to make your dream of a small carbon footprint a reality.