Going Green Construction Give Away Rights Ebook

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The nature of the project will commonly decide whether a green designer or a green builder or contractor is used. A new building will commonly need the expertise of a green designer, but for a small addition or a refurbishment, the services of a green builder might be enough.

Commonly, a designer will design the building and produce a set of blueprints, then turn those drawings over to a builder or builders for bids. There's nothing inherently wrong with that, but a few experts have discovered that builders -- who are frequently more familiar with on-site work -- are occasionally able to find alternative materials, systems and layouts that may better energy efficiency and additional green building conditions.

As a result, a few green builders want to work in conjunction with designers to fine-tune building plans prior to finalizing for approval. Not all designers, however, like to work this way, preferring rather to finish a set of building drawings prior to builders' bids. At a minimum, attempt to get a green designer who's open to the notion of revising plans based on the inspection of a green builder.

There's a saying in the building trades: It's a great project when the customer talks a lot at the beginning, however it's an awful project when the customer talks a lot at the end. Speak up about your thoughts, hopes and demands before work begins, and save yourself from a lot of complaining, expense and grief after the work is completed.

Nowhere is that more truthful than in green construction. Because the word "green" is so unclear and open to interpretation by individuals who don't truly understand it, make certain your green designer or builder understands even before they're employed that sustainable materials and healthy, safe, energy-efficient schemes like electric, plumbing and heating, ventilation and air-conditioning are a top priority on your plan.

Naturally, these conversations are much simpler with a designer or builder with whom you have a natural rapport. That sort of chemistry and exuberance is invaluable in making your project go simpler throughout what might otherwise be a really hard process. A smart way to begin is to bring a designer or builder into the conversation early, prior to making any difficult decisions about the construction site, building orientation or additional basics.

When you're ready to go, how do you find a great green designer or builder in your region? Word of mouth may be priceless in your search, particularly as you'll prefer to talk with former customers and visit projects that your green builder or designer has finished.

Besides random Net searches, a lot of individuals have found great information on green designers and builders through the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), a non-profit group committed to the evolution of cost-efficient, energy-saving green homes, offices and additional buildings. The best-known purpose of the USGBC is their Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, or LEED, program. The USGBC likewise sustains a list of green professionals, including designers, builders and contractors on their site.

The American Institute of architects has likewise adopted sustainable design and green buildings, and has a wealth of data on their AIA site. The AIA likewise lets visitors search for member designers by area, specialty and building sort.

Lastly, have a look at the portfolio (online or physical) of the green designer or builder. Not all green construction is alike, naturally, and a green house with a sleek, modernist design won't fulfill a lover of traditional, colonial-style houses -- and a green builder who works chiefly with traditional designs won't be the greatest choice for somebody who appreciates modern-day design.

Once again, remember to speak up at the very outset of the project to guarantee that your priorities are understood and dealt with.

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