Green tips for remodelers

The National Association of the Remodeling Industry sent me a long list of green tips for remodeling your home. I can't link to the list because they are still working on their green Web site, but NARI's Nikki Golden was happy to let me offer a selection from the press release:

Add Efficient Heating & Cooling

• New insulation technologies, such as spray-in cellulose insulation, is made from 80 percent post-consumer recycled newspaper and will effectively seal homes from harsh heat and cold.
  
• Although solar water heaters can be expensive ($1,000-$4,000), they can show paybacks of four to eight years.

Reduce Water Consumption

• About 8,000 gallons of water per household each year are lost while waiting for hot water to come from the tap. Put a home’s water heater as close as possible to the points of use for hot water to minimize waste.

Select Sustainable Materials

• Choose flooring and countertop materials made from local or regional sources
  
• Or pick those made of recycled materials or produced in an eco-friendly way, such as reclaimed hardwood, bamboo flooring and recycled glass.

Recycle Construction Waste

• Eco-conscious remodelers recycle as much project waste as possible during a home renovation project. For example, CG &S Design-Build will bring four waste containers to a project site -- for paper, metal, wood and concrete -- to recycle more efficiently.