Save Some Green by Going Green

This year, green construction is expected to represent 6% of the residential construction industry according to McGraw-Hill Construction Research and Analytics. That is up from only 2% in 2005. Green construction standards do not only apply to new buildings; remodeling contractors can abide by the same standards for home improvements and home repairs.

That being said, BidABuilder.com thought it was prudent to share information with you on green contractors, how to become a certified green contractor, what materials to use when building or doing home improvements or home repairs, and rebates and tax credits just for going green!

Today, many contractors are dedicated to the environment and specialize in eco-friendly building and materials. While some contractors simply use green products, others actually take a course to become certified in green building, construction and design.

To become a Certified Green Contractor, one must submit to 24 hours of classroom training which includes 16 hours of ‘green building’ procedures. They must also have at least 2 years experience in the construction industry, sign a code of ethics and agree to complete continuing education courses as new information and materials become available. More resources are available to contractors interested in becoming certified through the US Green Building Council at www.leedbuilding.org.nnPost your project on www.Bidabuilder.com to receive bids from certified green contractors to complete your home improvement project. BidABuilder.com posts profiles of all our contractors so homeowners can see certain qualifications, including green certifications, before choosing a prescreened professional to finish your project.

Certified Green Contractors uphold a high standard of using only green materials when building new or doing home improvements. While mostly everyone is aware of obvious choices like low energy appliances and insulated windows, there are many other eco-friendly products available such as:

• Cellulose home insulationn • Non-toxic paintsn • Drywall made from recycled materialsn • Plastic rain gutters made from recycled materialsn • Solar powered energy systems
• Recycled roofing materialsn • Programmable thermostatsn • Eco-friendly countertops
• Skylights
The benefits of using eco-friendly materials when doing new construction or home remodeling extends beyond helping the environment and lower electric bills. Many companies, as well as the government, offer rebates and tax credits for using materials, appliances and products that help reduce stress on the environment. Review websites like www.energystar.gov and http://planetgreen.discovery.com for more information.

So, what makes a material green? There are several qualifications. Below is a brief summary:

• Recycled and recyclable after usen • Release minimal volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) and be low in toxicityn • Make use of systems that conserve energy and reduce water consumption
• Generated from sustainably managed regional sources and produced in a resource efficient method
• Be cost effective and have a productive performance

While some recycled products may have an initially higher cost than others, over time they pay for themselves and save you more money in the long run but reducing your energy and fuel costs, sometimes dramatically!

BidABuilder.com is your source for all your Green Needs! Log on today, post your project and receive bids from as many contractors as you like. All of our contractors have visible profiles, available license and insurance information. As always, our service is free to homeowners. At BidABuilder.com we put you in control of all your remodeling, home improvement and home repair needs. Anything from hanging a ceiling fan to building an addition on your home; we’ve got your covered!