When embarking in the home buying process, there are many things to consider. The journey is an enjoyable time in one's life. But it is one that will bring many additional responsibilities. Having the assistance of a reliable and experienced Georgia real estate agent can make all of the difference during this process.
Environment Georgia is a citizen run environmental organization seeking to produce real changes in tackling all of the state's eco problems.
While many homeowners may think that building green can take a toll on the wallet, the benefits outweigh any initial monetary losses. There are many environmentally friendly, green forms of insulation that not only are healthy alternatives to asbestos, but may even help reducing annual energy costs.
Asbestos
Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was used in construction applications for the greater part of the 20th century. Often appearing as insulation, piping, roofing and flooring, homes and buildings could still contain asbestos materials if they were built prior to 1980.
If you locate any suspected asbestos in the home, most experts suggest leaving it un-disturbed until a home inspector can examine your property, take evaluations and determine the safest course of action. Sometimes the best action is no action at all. Disturbing asbestos in good condition may cause its fibers to be released into the air.
Exposure to damaged airborne asbestos fibers can lead to the development of a severe lung ailment known as mesothelioma. Research demonstrates that over 2,000 to 3,000 cases are diagnosed in the U.S. each year. Many variables can affect a mesothelioma diagnosis. These include length latency period, age of diagnosis and cigarette smoking.
The inspection and removal of toxic substances must be performed by licensed abatement contractors who are trained in handling dangerous materials. They work under state and federal regulations to ensure no health concerns arise from improper removal.
Going Green and Healthy Options
Building or remodeling your homes with eco-friendly materials can lower utility and water bills, achieve federal tax credits, higher real estate value, purer air quality, reduced waste sent to landfills and conservation of natural resources. A catalyst for homes, industries, schools, universities and business, the incredible diversity of enterprises is driven by a common bound to move to a green lifestyle. The implementation of eco-construction and green energy home solutions will play an important role in the transformation to a healthier and sustainable world.
Green alternatives to asbestos include the use of cotton fiber, lcynene foam and cellulose. Cotton fiber is quickly becoming a favorite for home builders and renovators. Made from recycled batted material, it is also treated to be fireproof.
Research has demonstrated that the use of eco-friendly insulation alternatives can reduce annual energy costs by 25 percent. Rather than expensive and mal-treated wood, interior walls can be made from steel and concrete, avoiding many of the problems associated with asbestos and other insulation methods.
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