Pennsylvania Has A fair Share Of Green!

There have been a fair share of LEED certified green communities in Pennsylvania, but there's only been one certified home in Chester County. The home was open to the public on April 27th, 2008 with the hopes of showing current and future homeowners why green houses are not only good for the environment but good for the general health of those living inside as well.
Eco builders in Pennsylvania can tell you that green homes create a healthier way of life for everyone who lives there. Toxins are less likely to be found in green homes as mold and mildew are less frequent and polluted air doesn't get into the home. People who suffer from allergies will be relieved from their mildew allergies and airborne allergies like dust because the amounts found in green homes are so significantly reduced. Not only will health be affected, but their wallets will feel a little fuller too. Energy efficient homes cost less to heat and power and the initial buying cost is not usually much higher than a typical home.
As far as the environment is concerned, green homes waste fewer natural resources than regular homes. In order to meet the LEED certification to even qualify as a green home, energy and water usage must be lowered by a significant amount. Using energy efficient appliances and fixtures that reduce the amount of water used generally helps qualify for the certification. Other less common but very effective ways to save on energy and water that are less commonly used by green builders in Pennsylvania is to install solar panels, have a good source of insulation, and have either wells or irrigation systems to reuse rain water.
Energy Star appliances are the leaders in energy efficient products used in eco friendly communities in Pennsylvania and elsewhere. Fluorescent lights are ideal for using less energy. Low-flow fixtures have also been used in many of the local buildings including the house in Chester County. Placement of green buildings is also very important because the more natural light used for a home the less artificial light and thus energy that will be used. Light colored paint will reflect light around the inside of the building.
There are paints for both indoor and outdoor use that have fewer toxins and emit fewer odors. Using plants for insulation is a common way to increase natural habitats as well as filter the air in the home and reflect heat from the outside. Large deciduous trees around the home can keep the inside cool during the summer months.
The open house for the green home in Chester County was for one day only. There are many new homes and buildings in green communities in Pennsylvania being opened frequently and there are quite a few that provide tours and open houses. Local newspapers may have information on homes opened if they're in the area, but if you’re interested in viewing a green home you can also find listings on the Internet.

« Click to go back