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For information on selecting walls and finishes for a green building project, click here.
Walls and Finishes Insulating Concrete Forms (ICF's) are interlocking modular foam units that are filled with concrete to create both the structure and insulation layer for a home. The units are pieced together, similar to Lego blocks, and then the cavity is reinforced with metal rebar and finally filled with concrete. There are several benefits to using ICF's in place of wood studs. ICF's are a much better thermal and acoustical barrier. They are much stronger than a wood framed house, and offer superior fire protection. They also provide backing for all interior and exterior finishes. ICF homes upfront cost about 4-6 percent more than wood framing, however require significantly less energy to heat and cool thus making them worth the money. If possible, locate a concrete supplier which utilizes fly ash or other recycled products in the making of the concrete. Paint: According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), paints, stains and other architectural coatings produce about 9 percent of the volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions from consumer and commercial products. VOC's are the airborne chemicals released during painting, after the paint is dry, and as paint is removed which contribute to indoor air pollution. Environmental regulations and increasing consumer demand have forced paint companies to develop new house paints that emit little or no VOC's. This is made possible by using water as a base in place of petroleum. "Low-VOC" Paints must meet the EPA standard of a maximum 200 grams volatile compound per liter of paint, whereas the EPA restricts "Zero-VOC" paints to less than 5 grams of volatile compound per liter. Reclaimed lumber is quite simply wood that has been salvaged for re-use. Most reclaimed wood comes from old barns or structures where the timber or decking can be salvaged. Although not typically used for framing homes, reclaimed wood is often used for siding, architectural details, cabinetry, furniture and flooring. Being 100 percent recycled, it is an extremely eco-friendly product to use for projects in your home. Much of its appeal comes from the fact that it is genuinely old, instead of a new product which is trying to look old. There are many exotic, antique, and unique woods out there which can be reclaimed and restored to give your home a beautiful touch. Siding: There are several options to choose from when considering siding for your home. If removing and redoing siding, remember to keep in mind the recommended level of insulation set forth by ENERGY Star so more insulation can be added if necessary. Using natural reclaimed lumber as siding for your home is the most eco-friendly approach. It is 100 percent recycled and offers a unique look. However, wood siding requires more maintenance than other popular solutions and is susceptible to insect damage. Vinyl siding is one of the most commonly used siding materials in new construction yet is also one of the worst for the environment because of the amount of energy it takes to produce and the toxins it uses. If vinyl siding is the only option, however, look for products which have made a commitment to ensuring their products have been made as sustainably as possible. Fiber cement siding is a composite material which comes in several different forms: lap siding, vertical siding, shingle siding, panel boards, and trim. It takes much less energy to produce when compared to vinyl siding and is much more durable. Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) consist of oriented strand board (OSB) sandwiching an insulating foam core. These panels are load bearing and can provide the complete envelope of a structure, including the roof. SIPs are appealing because they are quick to assemble and provide excellent energy performance. The insulating core of SIPs is most commonly made from expanded polystyrene (EPS)—not to be confused with extruded polystyrene, which is not ozone safe—though in some cases polyurethane foam, or even compressed straw or mineral wool, is used. SIPs are manufactured in a range of thicknesses providing different R-values. In response to problems with insects burrowing in SIP foam cores, look for products that incorporate borate compounds, which can help deter them. Even with borate treatment, however, it may be necessary to use insect mesh, trap systems, and insecticides on an ongoing basis. SIP buildings can be quickly assembled, particularly when panels are factory-cut for door and window openings. |
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GreenSpec recognizes the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) standards as the most rigorous and the only certification system with well-established chain-of-custody certification. The FSC standards represent the world’s strongest system for guiding forest management toward sustainable outcomes. By purchasing FSC certified lumber, you are ensuring that you receive environmentally responsible wood products.