Green Remodeling Q & A

If you’re thinking of building, renovating, or remodeling a home, you’ve probably wondered if you should "go green" but you may not be sure where to start.  This year’s Home Improvement Fair vendors can help you get started or you can learn more by clicking on the questions below. 

Why go green?
What can I do?
Does it cost more?
Can I afford to go green?

Why should I "go green?"

According to the Sustainable Building Industry Council (SBIC), housing alone consumes 20% of America’s energy.  Homeowners who remodel their home with green products can lower their personal energy consumption by 30-50%.  Not only will this remodel lower a homeowner’s energy costs, but it will assist in decreasing the amount of energy that American households demand every year.

Using green materials can also be beneficial to the environment and your health.  Many green products are made from recyclable materials or sustainable products which reduce the impact on the world’s resources.  In addition, these green products often don’t contain many chemicals that can be hazardous to your health.  For example, there are "green" paints and sealants which don’t contain chemical compounds that could potentially be hazardous to you and your family’s health.

What things can I do to make my house "green"?

Going "green" can be easy and it doesn’t have to cost an arm & a leg!  Here are 10 easy ways to "green" up your home:

1. Change your appliances to more energy efficient models
2. Regulate the temperature in your house through thermostat timers and clean air filters
3. Use energy efficient light bulbs – Florescent bulbs use up to 66% less energy
4. Use bamboo or other sustainable products for items like floors and cabinets
5. Save trees by trying 100% recycled paper or opting off junk mail lists
6. Use green cleaning products that don’t contain chemicals that are harmful to the environment, pets and your family
7. Use paints with low- or no- volatile organic compounds
8. Save water by using an aerator in your faucets or installing low-flush toilets
9. Re-use or recycle the plastic grocery bags (some stores even give you an instant discount when you use a re-usable bag at the check-out counter!)
10. Use natural products, like compost, instead of synthetic fertilizers in your garden

Some unconventional ways to "green" up your home

There are also more non-conventional ways to make your home more green.  For example, the planting of trees can actually have an impact on the amount of energy your home uses.  If deciduous trees are planted on the south side of your home they can provide a cool shade during the summer and because they lose their leaves, let the sunlight heat your house in the winter.

Does "going green" cost more?

With all the developments in green technology and building materials, the costs of "going green" are much lower than in the past.  In fact, during a study by the U.S. Green Building Council, they found that you can complete an LEED-certified home for roughly 2% more than the cost of building a home with regular material.  Over the life of the home these green changes can save you 20% in the homes operating and maintenance costs.  That is a ten time increase in your initial investment!  In addition, there are many green home improvement items like energy-efficient appliances or bamboo hardwood floors which actually might cost the same or less than their non-green counterparts.

How to finance your "green" home improvements

HomeStreet Bank’s Affinity Lending Center can help you get started on these great home improvement projects with a Home Equity Loan or Line of Credit.  For bigger jobs, ask us about our Home Remodeling or Renovation Loans. 

Don’t have a lot of $$??  Don’t worry!  Learn more how our FHA 203K loan can help you finance your home loan and home improvements all in one easy loan!