My husband and I are interested in building our own home. Building a green home that is energy efficient is also important to us. Does anyone have any resources that can help us?
My husband and I are interested in building our own home. Building a green home that is energy efficient is also important to us. Does anyone have any resources that can help us?
Heather,
As an architect, I applaud you and your husband, but I’ve also seen the down side of DIY, especially with less-familiar techniques. Hopefully it’s something you’ve done before! My biggest piece of advice is to have a good, thorough plan, so that you don’t get hit with construction surprises, cost overruns, or difficulties with the building department. The American Institute of Architects provides some guidance:
http://www.aiachicago.org/resources_for_clients/tipsForClients.asp
Also, if you’re thinking green, I urge you to consider an ultra-efficient "passive house" type: 70%+ savings on heating (in our Chicago climate), cleaner indoor air, less allergens, quieter, and only 10-15% more than conventional construction–but you amortize that with your energy costs. Check it out at:
http://www.passivehouse.us/passiveHouse/PHIUSHome.html
Good luck!
Tom
ah, please do! greener is better. although at first it can be expensive. it saves you (and the environment) in the long run try these sites
You can consult contractors and there is also this article I found on green building: http://best-offers-online.com/estimates/green-contractors