News from UBuildIt

Now, building green is easier than ever. Building a green project means improving the way that homes and homebuilding sites use energy, water and materials to reduce impacts on human health and the environment. So, where do you begin?

First, contact UBuildIt and let us show you how to direct your own green building project.

Second, UBuildIt will help you decide what level of green you

want to build. Building an ENERGY STAR project is the smart way to go, whether you're concerned with saving money, protecting your family's health or protecting the environment.

Third, rely on UBuildIt's experience and connections to successfully guide you through the process of constructing an ENERGY STAR certified home. We will connect you with local technical experts, product suppliers, and other resources to answer your questions and offer you incentives to reduce your costs. UBuildIt guides you every step of the way to ensure that the details are done right, building quality along with efficiency into your custom home.

Energy Savings...An ENERGY STAR home is a less expensive home to maintain. Installing efficient insulation, heating and cooling equipment, lighting, and appliances in a cost effective package brings savings for a lifetime, and protects you from higher energy prices. Energy savings of 15% to 30% or more over standard 'code' construction are the norm in ENERGY STAR qualified homes.

Comfort...From better balanced HVAC systems so all rooms maintain the desired temperature to low-e windows that reflect your body heat, ENERGY STAR ensures a more comfortable home. Best practices include taking the extra care to insulate well, properly size your HVAC equipment, and reduce 'thermal bridges' that allow heat to escape your home.

Durability...In building, what you don't see matters. A better understanding of modern building science leads to carefully built details that prevent damage from moisture and mold. Green building measures tailored to your specific climate provide better protection against hazards like moisture, insects, or ice that could threaten your home's long-term durability. Good design with durable materials makes for fewer repairs which is the 'green' way to go!

Healthy Home...With the ENERGY STAR program, ducts are sealed and tested, reducing air infiltration from crawlspaces, attics and garages. A whole house ventilation system maintains an adequate supply of fresh air and controls moisture. Selecting non-toxic materials and interior finishes reduces chemical irritants, making your home a healthier place for you and your family.

Low Maintenance...Building green means using durable materials that last longer. In addition, building to ENERGY STAR standards means HVAC equipment runs less often - which means less wear and tear.

Sustainability...Green and energy-efficient building measures reduce the impacts energy use and materials have on our natural environment and resources. Buildings account for at least 48% of greenhouse gas emissions, so reducing your home's energy use makes a real contribution to slowing global warming. Recycling construction waste, using more local and natural materials, and protecting sites from runoff and damage are all part of making a better world for the future.