Techniques for green building, also sometimes known as sustainable building or environmental building, have been entering the mainstream in recent years, as more builders and homebuyer are embracing their benefits. Kitsap County has been a pioneer in green building, and the Home Builders Association of Kitsap County has a nationally recognized program to help you make good decisions and find the right builder.

Due to the materials used in green homes, they are less toxic to human health, as well as to the health of endangered fish and other species. In the long term, green building also has cost-savings from features like energy efficient windows and appliances: An energy efficient home can have lower heating and cooling bills.

A green builder doesn’t stop at simply using energy efficient windows, doors and appliances. There are other ideas, like using special, non-toxic insulation, water-saving plumbing fixtures, and architectural features that take advantage of natural lighting.

Better indoor environmental quality is achieved through the use of low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints or alternative flooring that will not outgas like many carpets do. Indoor air quality has been proven to have a much higher impact on adults and children, because people spend the majority of their time indoors. Green building helps make the home more comfortable and less toxic.

Wool carpet is one of the green products, and you can ask for closed cell foam padding, like Healthy Choice®. If you choose to purchase standard carpeting, be sure to request “airing” of the carpet prior to installation. Linoleum may be another flooring choice.

The home products range from eco-flooring made of less toxic, recycled, or sustainable materials such as cork or bamboo; to fluorescent lighting and timer-operated fans.

The best part about a green home is that it’s not an “all or none” concept. A builder can incorporate as few or as many techniques as desired by the home buyer. As the market embraces green living, the number of products and the availability of cutting-edge technology have been growing as well.

Even landscaping can play a big role in the efficiency of a home. Using native, drought-tolerant plants will require less watering; and the proper placement of plants will help the home stay cool in the summer and warmer in the winter.

The Home Builders Association of Kitsap County is your first stop when considering building a green home. The HBA has a list of contractors who participate in its Built Green program. The advantage of using someone certified through the program is knowing that the prospective builders have the seal of approval from a program that is nearly 30 years old and won national awards. Built Green has architects, builders, real estate agents and suppliers as well as lending institutions specializing in green building.

These professionals not only use techniques to make the home more efficient, they are also conscientious about their work methods, using recycled materials when appropriate and reusing tools like brushes to reduce waste.

As more consumers appreciate the impact of green homes on their health and the environment, the resale value of these homes also grows, providing additional benefits for homeowners.

To find out more about the Built Green program or to locate a qualified builder, visit the Kitsap HBA online at www.KitsapHBA.com.