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It Pays To Go Green - Enviromentally Friendly Homebuilding

Posted by Mike Parsons
April 24, 2007 at 02:41 AM

Rising energy costs, fears about global warming, and tax incentives are pushing "green" building practices forward in Central Ohio. Green building is a newer concept to Columbus, Ohio and is starting to gain traction. A building is considered "green" when it is constructed to reduce the energy needed to live and work inside it.
Green construction commonly uses recycled building materials and energy efficient products, such as compact flourescent light bulbs or low-flow shower heads that lessen the burden on the environment and natural resources. Energy Star appliances, housing insulation wraps, siding made from recycled materials, highly efficient HVAC systems, and argon gas filled windows are all elements of some green homes. About half of home builders nationwide intend on incorporating some level of green building techniques into their practices by year end. In Columbus, Ohio green is starting to slowly catch on.

The redevelopment of the Lazarus building in Downtown Columbus was recognized for its Leadership in Energy and Enviromental Design rating in green design and construction. Other LEED certified commercial projects are planned for the area, including the Ohio Audubon Society bird sanctuary in Columbus's River South District. Sovereign Homes is the only residential home builder that is only building green. If homes meet a FIve Star Home energy rating, the home qualifies for a $2000 Energy Efficient Home tax credit. Green homes with a 5 star energy efficient rating often average a 40% reduction in energy costs. The cost of building green is typically 3-5% more than building a home with traditional materials. Information given by Homefront Magazine

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