A new-home buyer has numerous options and resources when looking for green solutions. There are several labels representing various levels of energy and/or resource efficiency; most notably, the Manitoba Hydro Power Smart Program.
However, when it comes to home renovation, green solutions are not as straightforward since you're already working with an existing building.
Still, any project, large or small, can be a step towards a greener, more environmentally friendly home, according to the Homeowners' Guide to Green Renovations, recently published by the Canadian Home Builders Association.
The guide encourages homeowners to think green when they plan to make changes, not just to reduce environmental impact but also to achieve a healthier and more comfortable living space, lower monthly operating costs and increased value.
The guide encourages advance planning on three key areas: energy and water efficiency, clean indoor air and choosing resource-smart materials and products.
It also encourages the homeowner to upgrade heating systems, add insulation and choose high-performance windows. Upgrading light fixtures, on-demand water heaters, water-efficient plumbing features and green landscaping are all factors to be taken into consideration.
Of course, in order to determine how to make the largest energy impact on your home, it is useful to know where the greatest deficiencies exist. An energy audit can be performed by Manitoba Hydro evaluators. This report determines how your home uses energy, where it is being wasted and can tell you which retrofits qualify for funding under both federal and provincial programs.
These rebates are in addition to the Home Renovation Tax Credit, a recently introduced one-year program that enables the homeowner to recover up to $1,350 on a $10,000 renovation. The HRTC expires early in 2010 so, if you are thinking about renovating, the time to act is now.
If you have concerns about air quality or ventilation, ask your renovator for advice on how to alleviate these problems. Your home is a complex system and a professional knows that the various parts of your house must work together.
The Homeowners' Guide to Green Renovations also lists materials, products and techniques that contribute to keeping indoor air cleaner and healthier. All manufacturers should be able to provide clear, concise information that supports their claim of being green. Again, your professional renovator can help you through this process.
To review a list of MHBA-recommended renovators and to review the Homeowners Guide to Green Renovation, please visit the Manitoba Home Builders Association web site at www.homebuilders.mb.ca and the RenoMark site at www.renomark.ca.
This column prepared by the Manitoba Home Builders' Association
