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Sep 2009  |  By Mibs  |  Comments

Building Green

Green construction is a hot topic. After the economy tanked last year, high-end “green” homes and condos still sold. Our President prioritizes environmentally correct solutions. Growing numbers of North Shore professionals are adding an expertise in green living to their credentials.

Our children think as environmentalists, and they push us to build for a greener future.

Because it’s such a hot topic, you might think that it would be easy to learn how to build a green house.

But it isn’t.

Despite instituting standard practices and rating systems such as LEED certification, it's still a complicated and confusing subject to learn about—and to choose—wise green construction practices.

But it's worth the effort. Homes that are built of nontoxic, renewable resources, and designed to save energy, capture daylight, conserve water and provide clean well-circulated air are delightful to live in.

Ultimately, they save money and improve your mental health. It feels great to watch your energy bills drop dramatically. And all that natural light and fresh air circulation improves your health.

Because green construction practices and standards are still complicated, collaboration with experts in these techniques is a good idea. Scott Simpson Builders has become a leading builder of green homes on the North Shore.

Simpson Builders is currently building an earth-friendly house in south Wilmette, photos of which accompany this article. The company is thrilled to be building this house with state-of-the-art systems and building elements and hope to achieve the first LEED-H Platinum Certified Home in the state of Illinois.

The scope of the work includes:

• Solar panels installed on the roof will statisfy some of the electrical needs and all the hot water.
• Geo-thermal heating and cooling have been incorporated.
• Insulation has been installed that far exceeds the code minimum.
• An energy recovery ventilation unit (ERV) has been installed for better indoor air quality.
• Hardwood flooring made from old farm beams has been installed throughout the house.  The use of these beams spare the lives of standing trees; and the use of hardwood flooring (instead of carpets) helps with the indoor air quality.

Published in Proud Partnership with our Sponsor, Scott Simpson Builders
Here's where you can find more information on Scott Simpson Builders:

Scott Simpson Builders
1842 Kiest Ave. Northbrook
847-441-6013
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
www.scottsimpsonbuilders.com

For more information on LEED certification, visit:
www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=1988