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Better Building: Green homes improve the quality of life
(MS) -- Even in a down market, Canadians recognize the long-term, cost-saving value of building a home with sustainable materials. Survey findings show that over the next five years, the green building market in North America is expected to double, with up to 20 percent of us insisting on the use of sustainable materials.
"A green home uses less energy, water and natural resources," says Todd Blyth at Nudura, the manufacturer of insulated concrete forms. "It creates less waste and is healthier and more comfortable for the occupants. Equally important benefits include lower energy bills, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and less exposure to mold, mildew and other indoor toxins. As a result, the net cost of owning a sustainable home is comparable to the cost of a conventional one."
When talking to your builder, ask for materials and systems that meet established green criteria. Such building materials are identifiable if they're rated by LEED, the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design organization. LEED encourages and accelerates global adoption of sustainable green building and development practices. It provides a third-party certification program, setting an international benchmark for the construction and operation of high performance sustainable buildings.
"Concrete is a good place to begin," says Blyth, referring to the Nudura building system. "Concrete walls are far superior in performance than the old wood frame method. A home that begins its construction with efficient, pre-assembled, interlocking concrete blocks will deliver significant, ongoing benefits to your lifestyle, to the environment, to your operating costs, and to the overall resale value of the house."
Nudura forms, can be ordered in a variety of sizes and shapes so that home can be built to any design. As important, concrete walls eliminate the risk of mold growth and allergens, so common with wood. This concrete system provides a superior sound barrier and is resistant to thermal bridging, where outside cold travels easily through walls to create uncomfortable cold spots, drafts, and mustiness. It is also reported that concrete walls like these are up to nine times stronger, far more fire resistant, sound resistant, and will reduce energy costs by up to 70 percent. More information is available online at nudura.com. TF094075
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