Going Green
There
has been a lot of discussion amongst homeowners, as well as builders, on
building properties more Green. Each year On-Site Construction (OSC) is learning
about new and better products that we can utilize to help our customers save on
energy costs as well as new ways to help maintain a cleaner environment.
Remodeling a property to be more Green may cost more up front, but will save the
owner money in the long run.
With roofing being one of OSC’s main focus areas within remodeling, there are a
number of ways we can assist our customers in being more Green. One thing that
many property owners are not aware of is that you can have your roofing singles
recycled. Having your shingles recycled does two things. First, and most
important, it helps reduce the waste being dumped into our landfills. OSC was
recently told that each year there is more than 11 million tons of asphalt
shingles dumped in landfills across the country. Secondly, when your old
shingles have been recycled they are turned back into asphalt that gets reused
on our roads. In some States it is mandatory to have your roofing shingles
recycled, but currently in Texas that law has not been passed. It is up to the
property owner to have their old shingles recycled. This may be a bit more
costly than having your shingles dumped, but is crucial in helping maintain a
cleaner environment.
Property owners can also save money by choosing an Energy Star rated shingle. It
may make you eligible for a Federal Tax Credit for Energy Efficiency of up to
$1,500 for roofing materials. By choosing an Energy Star rated shingle, you can
also save on your cooling bills. Having a reflective Energy Star rated roof will
help keep your attic cooler, which means your air conditioner will not have to
run as much to keep your property cool.
OSC can help property owners improve the efficiency of their homes in other ways
as well. The attic is a very important space within home and there are many
improvements that can be made to help save on energy costs. A good rule of thumb
is if your attic is hot, it is costing you money, not to mention what it will do
to your shingles. When choosing a roofing contractor, you want to make certain
that the contractor will provide your home with proper ventilation. Most homes
today are not properly ventilated. Other improvements that can help create a
more Green property are attic insulation, double insulated garage doors,
windows, and a radiant barrier shield. All of these improvements may also make
you eligible for a Federal Tax Credit for Energy Efficiency. Please contact us
with any questions or concerns about going Green at
gogreen@onsiteconstruction.net
Atlas Efficiency Solutions provides home performance energy audits to evaluate existing energy conditions and develop recommendations for improving energy efficiency. Our certified energy specialists perform a detailed diagnostic and visual inspection of your home envelope. Performing an energy audit will help identify issues within the home that can be solved to improve energy efficiency. An energy efficient home uses less heating and cooling to achieve the same temperature and allow for a more comfortable living space.
www.atlas-e.com
Don't Forget About IRS Tax Credits!
2009 IRS Residential Energy Credits
2008 IRS Residential Energy Credits
GAF/Elk Manufacturer's Certification Statement (for federal tax credit)
Radiant Barrier Shield