Traditional construction techniques can contribute to global warming. For example, the extruded polystyrene commonly used for insulating homes has a global warming potential that’s 1,430 times greater than carbon dioxide.
However, failing to insulate properly costs precious energy, depleting nonrenewable resources like heating oil. Are there viable insulation alternatives for green construction? Here are eight things to consider.
1. Start at the Bottom
Anyone who has slept in a bedroom above an uninsulated garage knows that a cold floor can result in all-over chills. Concrete foundations aren’t particularly warm, and homes with crawl spaces allow frigid temperatures to creep beneath your floorboards. Consider flooring choices like carpet, which keep your rooms toastier in winter while deadening (...)
