What to Expect in a Green Housing Project

Minimally, one can expect to find zero-VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) paint (and stain if applicable), energy star appliances when available (dryers and ovens are not available in energy star models), a water efficient washing machine, a dryer, and a refrigerator (most houses do not come with any of these appliances). If flooring is in good shape, whether hardwoods, tile, or linoleum, it will not be replaced in order to avoid unnecessary waste. If new floors are necessary, we will use bamboo or cork in main areas, as these can be grown sustainably, non-toxic carpet in bedrooms, and tile in bathrooms and kitchens, giving priority to recycled tiles, and using less toxic or non-toxic adhesives when available. Fully functioning furnaces and water heaters will most likely not be replaced with new energy star models, unless the budget allows for these additional costs, in which case the functioning models will be donated to Habitat for Humanity or another non-profit. We will also use a grey water recycling unit when we can in order to reduce household water usage by as much as 30%. We will always use energy efficient windows to insure low heating costs. In the case of a scrap or new build we will use green kits and do our best to implement passive solar heating and solar power as well. As for greenery, we will not unnecessarily destroy any greenery, and hope to promote clean air by planting trees at houses renewed during the planting season.