Eco-Friendly Green Remodeling Basics In Los Angeles

As a green construction specialist, I often give advice and guidance over the phone. Los Angeles is a large territory to cover and many people call with wide range of questions on how apply green home remodeling techniques to their future projects. Below are some questions I sometimes ask clients to consider when considering their next project, appliance, upgrade, remodel or repair. Because sometimes it is more cost effective and environmentally better to replace and upgrade home appliances or home features like old energy draining refrigerators. While other times a few simple yet effective upgrades will save you water, electricity and headache in the long term.

Continue reading after the jump to find out more.

When deciding on remodeling choices or decisions, ask yourself: How will this remodeling affect my home energy consumption and water use? What natural resources will be used or wasted as a result of this remodeling? How will the remodeling process affect the my family's health?

First evaluate and look for hazardous materials. Consider hazardous materials that may be present, such as asbestos, lead-based paint or mold. When in doubt consult a hazardous material specialist.

Second is to know the energy efficiency of your house. A home performance contractor can run diagnostic tests that search for air leaks, moisture problems and gauge your home’s overall energy efficiency. They can also suggest what are your cost effective options.

Last is to be wise in choosing green energy efficient or eco-friendly products and appliances. Ask these common questions:

-          Will this product make your home more energy efficient and comfortable?

-          Will this product save water?

-          Is the product safe when used or installed? Will it off-gas harmful chemicals?

-          Is the product durable and won't have to be replaced or repaired frequently?

-          Is the product made from recycled materials?

-          Is the product manufactured in an environmentally friendly way?

-          How long can we realistically keep this product before needing or wanting to have it replaced?

-          Can this product meet our future needs if they change or increase?

Though these questions may be broad or a little simplistic, they may help shed some light on some aspects on your next project you may not have been thinking of initially.

Hope this helps, let me know in the comments if there are any topics you would like to read about or if this article helped any.