Those of us in the home building, home remodeling and home repair industry are very familiar with the popularity of green building and remodeling. In the last few years, green building has become a very hot trend (and one that seems as though it may actually transition from trend to legacy).

That being the case, the demand for green building materials and green remodeling ideas has increased tenfold from even five years ago. As a result, Energy Star homes are rising in popularity.

If you’re not familiar with Energy Star, here’s what it means:

• Energy Star homes have been built (and recognized by government standards) as utilizing the most energy efficient construction methods.
 
• Because of energy efficient construction, Energy Star homes also offer better insulation, which minimizes drafts in the winter, heat retention in the summer and noise levels year round. Indoor air quality is also highly improved.

• Energy Star homes, while certainly a little more expensive during the construction phase, are much less costly to maintain over the long term. Additionally, heating, cooling and utility costs on the whole tend to be several hundred dollars less annually than in a traditional, non-Energy Star home. Over time, several hundred dollars becomes several thousand dollars, and suddenly, the savings don’t seem so small.

• Energy Star homes are more attractive to potential home buyers, who are concerned with both the environment and living costs. So, the Energy Star label makes your home a more attractive investment when/if you decide to sell it.

• Energy Star homes are designed and constructed with the environment in mind. Energy Star homes seek to cause minimal damages to the environment (and in doing so, also minimize your homeownership costs in the long run).

Essentially, the Energy Star label is recognized by the U.S. government as representing homes that are eco-friendly, that seek to minimize environmental damages through everyday living and that truly utilize “green building.”

If you would like more detailed information on how Energy Star ratings are earned, please visit www.energystar.gov. Here, you’ll see exactly how going green can save you green (dollars, that is!).