Sunday, November 9, 2008

Go Green!

When remodeling or purchasing a new home, there are many things to consider. Commonly used to insulate boilers and pipes, most homes built after 1980 could harvest asbestos or other environmentally defected insulation techniques. Environmental efficiency is on the rise because of technology and green sustainable methods progressing rapidly. Not only will these methods produce a healthier lifestyle, it will save you money!

Prior to making the move, make sure your home has been inspected by professionals who know how to detect any type of toxic materials in the process. Improper insulation was used in millions of homes and while it is safe when enclosed or in good condition, deteriorated asbestos can cause a slew of health problems, such as mesothelioma and malignant mesothelioma. Asbestos is a form of insulation which is swiftly becoming obsolete because of environmental awareness and new protocols. Asbestos could be present in different forms in buildings built in the years 1930 to 1975.

The Eco-Friendly Paradigm

When involved in real estate, it is especially important to embark on the proper inspections to insure the safety of your clients, building workers and your reputation. Problems with asbestos in older buildings should be addressed in a rational manner. A good course of action is to identify materials which could harvest asbestos, mark the condition and establish a plan that addresses any negative condition in the building.

Damaged asbestos can produce diseases such as mesothelioma, a cancer in which treatment is limited. If not caught on time, it can lead to malignant mesothelioma. Although it needs to be removed by professionals, it is worth price for a healthier, positive lifestyle. The Research and Development (RAND) organization has helped raise awareness and education for those affected and those seeking to avoid themselves the problem. With the help of think tanks such as RAND and other organizations, removal in work places and public facilities is on the rise.

While remodeling of current buildings for better energy efficiency is a must, it does not come without its hazards. Older homes and buildings contain toxins and proper preparation is needed to avoid the breathing of harmful chemicals. Asbestos can be found in attics, pipes and ceilings. The Department of Energy concluded that cooling and heating counts for up to 50-70 percent of all energy used in the average home in the U.S. In today's state, this philosophy can also save natural resources. Environmentally sustainable insulations are made from recycles materials including cellulose, polyurethane foam and cotton fiber.

Most people are unaware to the fact that eco-friendly products can cut energy costs by 35 % per year. Due to these recycled materials, waste is decreasing in crowded landfills. Proper insulation will save you on bills. Rather than expensive and mal-treated wood, interior walls can be made from steel and concrete, avoiding many of the problems associated with asbestos and other insulation methods. Currently, many cities in the U.S. have created lumberyards which re-store where you can purchase recycled building materials that are authentically strong and inexpensive.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

We are trying solar electric and geothermal heat and air conditioning. Both can reduce cost over time and are green as you can get.