Roofing & More, Inc., uses Guardian E-Z Attic Insulation for their projects. E-Z Attic is a yellow, loose-fill fiberglass and is installed manually by spreading the insulation over an area to a specified thickness to achieve the desired thermal value. The U.S. Department of Energy has established minimum recommended insulation R-values for 7 distinct parts of the country, or insulation zones. “R” stands for ‘resistance to heat flow.’ The greater the R-value, the greater the insulative power. R-value requirements depend on factors such as local climate and the surface you are insulating (walls, ceiling, floor, etc.) will be regulated and by your local building code.

Green remodeling can potentially lower your energy consumption by 30 to 50%. Considering skyrocketing energy costs, this can result in significant savings. Plus, you’ll be helping conserve the Earth’s natural resources. If you’re considering renovations to your home, take some time to investigate green alternatives.

The principles of green remodeling take into consideration indoor air quality, energy conservation, resource conservation, reduced material waste, and the use of products that are better for the environment. Here are some options to consider if you want to go green:

Choose nontoxic paints and sealants. Toxic paint fumes can degrade indoor air quality. Look for eco-friendly paints that have no or low levels of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).

Upgrade heating and air units to more energy efficient models. Consider alternatives to conventional heating and air conditioning that may work for you, including passive solar heating, geothermal heating and cooling, and condensing boilers.

Install energy efficient appliances. If you are making appliance purchases, check the efficiency ratings. The right choices can save you about $400 a year while reducing emissions of greenhouse gases. For more information on understanding the Government Energy Star program, visit www.energystar.gov.

Buy natural flooring, and natural fiber rugs and fabrics. Products made from sustainable, renewable, or recyclable materials help conserve natural resources and will not contribute to poor indoor air quality.

Use local building materials and have any construction debris collected by a recycling company. Utilizing local building products reduces the cost to bring the product to you. Recycling construction waste keeps reusable materials out of our landfills.

Use roof shingles and tiles made from recycled material. The roofing industry offers a variety of environmentally friendly choices. Plus, these green roofing materials compare favorably with traditional roofing.

Upgrade the insulation of your home, water heater, and pipes. Select quality insulation and have it installed properly. Products that increase the “R” value of your home will save you money.

Replace your windows. Like appliances, windows have Energy Star ratings. Check these ratings to find the most energy efficient options.

Consider a tankless water heater. Some models can cut your water bill up to 50% and use less energy, plus they provide an endless supply of hot water. Keep in mind that a tankless water heater may cost more up front but will save you money over time.

Green remodeling doesn’t necessarily have to encompass your entire home at one time. You can implement green alternatives gradually to suit your project, budget, and needs. Ask your remodeling professional for more information about green alternatives during your next home renovation.

Did you make any New Year’s resolutions for 2009? Maybe you want to lose weight, eat healthier, get outside more, and spend more time with the family. Did you make any home improvement resolutions? Clean garage, paint bedroom, remodel kitchen, or install home theater. Did any of those resolutions include reducing your carbon footprint? Your what? Your carbon footprint is how you treat the earth around you.

Below are suggestions on how to care for our Earth.

1. Is your current furnace older than your college aged son? Time for a new one. Replace your inefficient heating system with a more modern energy efficient one. Look for a heater with the Energy Star label.

2. But your furnace is pretty new? Then it may just need some TLC and minor maintenance such as changing or cleaning the filters. You can also save the strain on your budget as well by closing the vents to rooms not in use. Reduce heat loss by 20%.

3. Does your garage feel like you stepped into the North Pole? Why not change out the garage door to a more insulated one since energy efficiency is not in the plans when the house was first built. Look for garage doors filled with polystyrene.

4. Does your skirt ever blow up when standing too close to your window? You can add weather stripping around the windows for one solution. A second easier solution is to hang up “blackout” curtains or if needed, and budget allows, replace windows with a double or triple pane window (depending on age of current windows). Curtains can reduce heat loss by 25%.

5. Do you have bats in attic? What about insulation? It may be time to add more insulation or check to see if any is there at all. You can insulate with spray foam or cellulose insulation. Check with the local expert for the best insulation that is needed in your area/home. This will save from undergoing a major renovation.

6. Do you have calluses on your fingers from constant button pushing on your thermostat? Why not get a programmable thermostat that you can pre-set for when you are home or away. You can set to your needs from morning wake up to bedtime tuck in. Save 15% on the heating bill.

7. Got Sun? You can if you convert your power source to solar. This conversion can be expensive, but if done one panel at a time, can be budgeted for and save money in the long run. Get Sun!

8. Cold water is great on a hot summer’s day, but not in the dead of winter when taking a shower. If your water heater is over 15 years old and your water does not seem to stay heated or runs out quick, it time to replace. Once the water heater is installed, wrap it with an insulated jacket to prevent heat loss. Look for an Energy Star model.