The goal of green building is to use our resources wisely so that we get the greatest amount of good, for the greatest number of people for the greatest amount of time.  The homebuilding industry can accomplish this in a number of ways for maximum benefit, especially in our New England climate.  

Start with the selection and development of the building site. 

1. Build the house on the site that disturbs the environment the least. 
2. Do not remove all the trees from the site. 
• Trees take in carbon dioxide and produce oxygen 
• Deciduous trees provide shade in the summer which keeps the house cooler.  In the winter the leaves drop allowing the sun to heat the home. 
3. Orient the house so that the greatest amount of glass faces south. 
4. Utilize new technology for the septic system which requires less land clearing. 
5. Protect the site's existing plants. 
6. When bringing plants to the site look for plants that are drought tolerant, easily maintained and use mulch to conserve water. 
7. During construction: 
• Be careful to save all topsoil. 
• Do not allow material to erode into ecologically sensitive area or drainage facilities. 
• Utilize all parts of the trees cleared for construction including the stumps which can be ground and used for mulch. 
8. For driveways use hard pack which is made of recycled materials. 
9. Be sure to have proper drainage around the house.  This includes grading away from the foundation, foundation coating, and foundation drains. 

Another component to consider in Green Building is Energy Efficiency.

1. Use low-E Energy Star-rated windows. 
2. Install Energy Star-rated appliances and tankless water heaters. 
3. Framing @ 24 iches O.C. allows more insulation in the walls and also uses less lumber. 
4. Insist on air infiltration wrap. 
5. Use an insulated exterior door. 
6. Programmable thermostats automatically reduce temperatures at night
   while you're sleeping. 
7. Use high quality caulk to stop air infiltration. 
8. Install a high efficiency heating system. 

  Strive for efficient use of resources.    

1. The use of floor trusses permits greater spans, uses less dimensional lumber, and allows electrical and plumbing to be installed within the trusses, leaving useable space below. 
2. Roof trusses provide the same benefits as the floor trusses, and their quick installation allows the house to be made weather tight much faster. 
3. Use precut lumber to eliminate waste. 
4. Use finger jointed wood whenever possible. 
5. Products such as OSB and LVL’s can provide a superior product without using our most valuable trees. 

Conserve water.        

1. Utilize low-water consumption toilets. 
2. Use low-flow shower heads. 
3. Use low-water consuming appliances such as front loading washing machines. 
4. Run the dishwasher only when it is fully loaded. 

The top priority of green building should be the health, safety, and comfort of the occupants. 

• To reduce the chances of mold in the attic: 
• Be sure the air from the propa vents at the eaves to the ridge vent is free flowing. 
• Insure that there are no air leaks or missing insulation between the living space and the attic.  Frequently overlooked is air leakage at the attic scuttle.
• To reduce the chance of mold on the basement: 
• Grade the yard away from the house. 
• If necessary install gutters. 
• Install 6-mil plastic under the concrete basement floor. 
• Install a door at the bottom of the hatchway stairs. 
• Install a dehumidifier. 
• Use windows for ventilation.   
• Do not store firewood in the basement. 
• Use low VOC paints   

Control moisture in the living areas

• Install and use a range hood that is vented to the outside (Do not use a ductless range hood or vent into the attic). 
• Vent the dryer to the outside. 
• Use a bath fan that is ducted to the outside or open a window.  

Another goal of green building should be easy or low maintenance. 

1. In the construction of the home you can use vinyl windows and siding. 
2. Exterior trim made of recycled plastic or aluminum is available. 

Lastly, the homeowner should read and understand instruction sheets and manuals provided for components used on constructing the home.  Not following instructions may result in premature failure.