Springfield’s ReStore on Albany Street has changed its name. Its the same fantastic store, just with a more appropriate name. As their website states, “We’ve always sold eco-friendly used and surplus building materials at bargain prices—so we changed our name to EcoBuilding Bargains.”
Makes total sense to me!
Learn more at the EcoBuilding Bargains Website!
I don’t attempt to force green principles on my family and friends. If someone asks me for advice, I will freely give it and all of my family and friends know I advocate green and sustainable principles, so I don’t feel the need to harp on them about it. Recently I’ve been helping my parents paint their house. They started with the outside and plan to repaint the walls in the kitchen and living rooms at some point in the near future. When they do, I am hoping to gently nudge them toward using no or low VOC paint. No one in the house has particularly acute allergies but that doesn’t mean its not a much healthier choice for everyone in the long run anyway.
Recent EPA studies estimate indoor air quality to be close to 5 times more toxic than outdoor air largely caused by toxic emissions of paints and finishes. This lead paint manufacturers to develop lower VOC products that don’t negatively impact the air quality while remaining high quality and durable.
The use of low-VOC paint reduces toxins that cause allergy and chemical sensitivities, reduces contaminant concentrations in landfill, groundwater and the ozone, provides easy cleanup with soap and water and produces lower odor. With increased legislation and support from environmentally conscious organizations such as the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and Green Seal plus advances in paint technology the paint industry has come a long way in developing an array of environmentally responsible products with higher performance levels. New paints have become more durable, cost-effective and less harmful to humans and the environment.
The general consensus is that low and no VOC paints are very expensive. There is no avoiding that at this point. A gallon of low or no VOC can cost about the same as premium paints. But no and low VOC are also high performance paints and like premium paints tend to last a lot longer than the less expensive alternatives. In the long run, low and no VOC paints are better for your health and for the environment. That, along with the fact that it is quality and durable paint, is well worth the added initial expense.
Benjamin Moore
1773 Boston Road
Springfield, MA
Springfield Paint
1042 St. James Ave,
Springfield, MA
Kakley True Value
10 Allen Street
Springfield, MA
Foster Farrar Hardware
145 King St
Northampton MA
Northampton Paint Center
881 North King Street
Northampton, MA
Florence Hardware
12 North Maple Street
Florence, MA
Dakor Center, Inc
251 Davis Street
Greenfield, MA
image from www.treehugger.com
Continuing our tour of the green and sustainable options for the kitchen. Part II of the Sustainable Home Series is about green kitchen flooring solutions. Each of the options discussed in this post have advantages and drawbacks, which may impact your individual living situation. I recommend you do more in-depth research on these choices to determine which one is the right one for you. But each has solid sustainability credentials and therefore make for outstanding options for anyone looking to put down an environmentally friendly kitchen floor. Bear in mind that many of these materials would work well in rooms other than the kitchen as well. Unlike Part I, I was unable to determine local distributors for each of these products, though I believe most, if not all, can be found within a reasonable radius of Western Massachusetts. If you are interested in any of these flooring options, I suggest you locate a national manufacturer of the product and inquire as to a local distributor, or do a local search on your own. I will keep looking myself and If you know of a local distributor, please let me know and I will post it here. I hope this brief summary of some of the available green and sustainable kitchen flooring options is helpful and informative!
Image from www.furniturehomedesign.com
Cork is not just good for sealing in those bottles of chardonnay and chianti. Cork has become a very popular choice for its sustainability, durability and beauty. Many color and pattern choices are available. Cork flooring achieves its color by being baked, the darker the color, the longer it was baked. Cork flooring is fire and water resistant. Due to the resilient nature of cork, it is easier on the legs and feet than harder surfaces like stone and concrete. Also, cork flooring is a natural insulator. It absorbs sound and remains warmer than other surface. So bare feet will appreciate! Cork is also a relatively soft material, so there are some risks. Heavy objects left on the surface for a period of time could leave indentations in the floor. So take precautions such as under-padding when placing heavy items such as furniture on the floor. Age and direct sunlight may discolor the cork flooring over time as well. So keep this in mind. You will want to maintain the floor by keeping it swept and mopped regularly.
Image from: http://ecofriendlynow.files.wordpress.com
Bamboo flooring has been gaining in popularity with homeowners due to its sustainability, its durability and its amazing aesthetics. Its a very strong, dense wood which makes it very water resistant. Bamboo grows significantly faster than hardwood and therefore its harvesting for flooring is a much more sustainable choice than hardwood. Another benefit of bamboo is its easy maintenance needs. As well as bamboo flooring being very strong and durable, it is also easy to install. You used to be limited in your choice of colors and hues with bamboo, however manufacturers have developed ways to add additional colors to the process, so you will likely be able to find a color you like. Like hardwood, bamboo flooring is susceptible to scratching. It is recommended to use padding under furniture to prevent scratching and indentations. Most bamboo is harvested and shipped from China, so it is not a local product and must be transported by ship to the United States.
image from www.jetsongreen.com
Another more sustainable wood option that is not the typical hardwood is Eucalyptus. It is often cheaper than bamboo and comparable to standard hardwood flooring. Although not as fast as bamboo, eucalyptus is a fast growing tree. It typically grows twice as fast as species like oak, pine or cherry. A very very hard surface, eucalyptus has the same advantages of typical hardwood. Choices in color and patterns are very similar to those of hardwood as well. Eucalyptus is primarily harvested in New Zealand and Australia and has to be shipped to the United States. The same risks of scratching and indentation exist for eucalyptus as for any hard wood flooring.
image from www.restorationtimber.com
Bamboo and eucalyptus are sustainable because of their high rate of growth and abundance in their native lands. But is there a green option in our own country that doesn’t rely on new growth? Absolutely. Reclaimed wood is any type of wood that comes from a pre-existing structure and is being given new life. Wood that has been salvaged from old barns, mills, bridges, warehouses and other wood buildings and structures. Reclaimed wood can add wonderful character to your home. Its age and time tested durability can make it a better quality choice than new wood that is often cut from less mature trees. Due to the fact that it was not originally meant to be your kitchen floor, reclaimed wood may require repair work such as removing nails, sanding, planing and varnishing. Because its not manufactured to specifications, It may be difficult to find the wood that works best for you and it could be more expensive than other options due to the work that will be required to customize the reclaimed wood for your purposes.
image from www.architectmagazine.com
Marmoleum is linoleum, thus it has a bad reputation. It is however a surprisingly eco-friendly and attractive option. Available in just about any color, it has no off-gas (unlike its vinyl counterparts) and is considered a very safe and sustainable product. Marloleum is very durable and easy to clean.
image from www.furniturehomedesign.com
Hardwood floors are very popular today and add great appeal and value to your home. It is also well known to be more expensive than most choices for flooring. But if you have the money and love hardwood, there are sustainable ways to use it. The first thing you can do is look for the FSC certification. The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is a nonprofit group that promotes environmentally responsible forestry practices. A wide range of flooring woods come with the FSC stamp, including oak, maple, ash, cherry, birch, Douglas fir, pine and others.
image from capefearriverwood.com
Wood is also harvested occasionally to protect the health of the forest. If a forest becomes too dense with trees, it can become susceptible to disease and fire. Thus in some locations, a thinning out process results in the availability of wood for flooring.
image from media.merchantcircle.com
Stone flooring is another eco friendly choice, A natural product, stone is very durable, stain resistant, has a cool surface temperature and looks fantastic. There are many types of stone flooring. Options include quarried rock such as marble, travertine, granite, limestone, sandstone, slate, ceramic and flagstone. It tends to be expensive and can be hard on the legs and feet when standing on it for extended periods. You’d want to do further research on the particular types of stone you are interested in. They each have unique positives and negatives that you should familiarize yourself with.
image from http://img.diynetwork.com
Annie Lennox might feel at home if you opt for this amazing looking flooring alternative. Made from recycling old glass from wine, liquor and other bottles, as well as old windows, etc. Most often recycled glass is manufactured in one of two ways, glass tiles or terrazzo tiles. Glass tiles are made by melting down the glass and remolding it into tiles. These can had a wide variety of sizes, shapes, colors and finishes. Terrazzo floors are made by embedding chunks of material in concrete or resin and then sealing it, creating a smooth surface. Recycled glass is good for the environment, reusing a product which could otherwise end up in the landfill. It is extremely easy to keep clean.
I haven’t posted in a while. I kind of lost my muse for a bit. But I have a new idea for a series of articles on some sustainable products for use in building or remodeling a home with an eye toward using green materials.
I figured I’d start in my favorite room of any house, the kitchen. So this first article is on kitchen countertops. There are a number of fantastic options that use recycled and or sustainably harvested materials that both look great, are practical as well as earth conscious. Check out these ideas:
These countertops are created from recycled metal shavings which are then embedded into a base of specially formulated resin. The resin seals the metal shavings beneath a thick see through layer so that the beauty of the metal shavings is the focal point of the countertop. Available in a wide range of colors. Stain and water resistant but not heat resistant.
Closest distributor: Green Home Solutions, 167 Main Street, Norwalk, CT 06851. (203) 642-4120
Bamboo has a beautiful grainy look to it and because it’s a renewable resource, bamboo countertops are an eco-friendly option for your kitchen. Durable material if properly maintained, Bamboo is however not heat resistance and is prone to scratches and nicks. Bamboo is also more expensive than some of the other choices.
There are several local distributors of bamboo countertops.
Butcher block is a fantastic choice because it is usually made from reclaimed wood or wood that has been sustainably harvested. One of the coolest things about butcher block is that it can be sanded down and refinished as often as you’d like. Unlike many stone surfaces, it is inexpensive to sand down butcher block to restore a smooth surface. Wood is fully biodegradable when a natural finish is used so it does not contribute harmful chemicals to indoor air quality and it is strongly resistant to heat. It does tend to be a bit pricy and does require regular oiling, is prone to staining and added maintenance that a stone surface does not often require.
There are several local distributors of butcher block countertops.
Eleek countertops are made from recycled aluminum and feature an organic River Rock finish. With a clear powdercoat finish Eleek ensures that the aluminium is non-toxic, stain-proof and durable.
Closest distributor: EcoModern Design, 1 Design Center Place, Boston, MA 02210. (781) 270.4600
Durable and hard as stone, with the feel of wood, this material is made from FSC-certified fiber that is a 50/50 blend of bamboo and post-consumer recycled paper, bound with a water based resin. EcoTop requires regular maintenance with oil finish. It is available in 8-10 different colors and has a very low water absorption rate. Will scratch like a butcher block. EcoTop is not biodegradable.
Closest distributor: The Edge Countertops, 290 Pratt Street, Meriden, CT 06450. (203) 237.8585.
Icestone is a gorgeous thick slab of 100% recycled glass and non-toxic pigments in a cement matrix. Available in almost 30 colors, heat resistant, contains no petroleum based chemicals. The factory utilizes a very green manufacturing process. The biggest trouble with Icestone is its cost. It does also tend to stain or etch and must be sealed and maintained carefully.
Closest distributor: Artistic Interiors, 384 West Ave, Ludlow, MA 01056. (413) 583.6148.
Mostly known for its use as flooring material, it can also be an inexpensive alternative for countertops. The material is a brand made from linseed oil, limestone, plant rosin, wood flour, organic pigments, and jute backing. There is a wide variety of colors to choose from. Not particularly heat resistant, a softer material which required trim around the edges. It is most popular in Europe.
There are several local distributors of Marmoleum countertops.
Paperstone is made from recycled paper or cardboard in a petroleum-free, phenolic resin base. There are two types of Paperstone, Original and Certified. The difference being the Certified is FSC certified 100% post consumer standard office paper, while the Original is 100% post consumer cardboard. It required regular oiling and maintenance. Its a durable material and is available in a number of colors. It feels like highly polished wood. Is prone to scratches and some minor discoloration over time.
Closest distributor: Cowles Building Supply, 125 Sunderland Rd, Amherst, MA 01059. (413) 549.0002
This material, made in the Pacific Northwest, is recycled paper, recycled glass, and post-industrial fly-ash in a cement base. It features a wonderfully unique textured appearance. Available in a limited number of colors, it is difficult to install and it may stain and etch over time and requires regular sealing and maintenance.
Closest distributor: Tiger Mountain Innovations, LLC, Email: info@tmi-online.com
Many do not think of stainless steel as a environmentally friendly alternative due to the fact that in order to produce stainless steel, virgin metals must be mined, which impacts on natural resources and the environment. However, recycled metal countertops are fairly popular and cost effective. You get all the benefits of the non-recycled counterpart like durability and easy maintenance without having to further damage our environment.
There are several local distributors of Stainless Steel countertops.
Want to know where all those glass bottles go when you recycle them? Here’s one of the coolest uses. Vetrazzo is made from 85% recycled glass from curbside bins, traffic lights, stemware, etc. in a cement base. This durable material is heat resistant, comes in a variety of colors and is recyclable. Its expensive and requires a yearly sealing to combat staining.
Closest distributor: Interstate Custom Kitchen & Bath, Inc, 558 Chicopee St, Chicopee, MA 01013. (413) 532.2727.
Competitive Kitchen Designs, Inc. 6 Allston Ave, West Springfield, MA 01089. (508) 997-1010.
BnC Kitchen & Bath, 199 Moody Rd, Enfield, CT 06082. (860) 749-4610.
• Check the insulation levels in your attic, exterior and basement walls, ceilings, floors, and crawl spaces. Visit www.energysavers.gov for instructions on checking your insulation levels.
• Check for holes or cracks around your walls, ceilings, windows, doors, light and plumbing fixtures, switches, and electrical outlets that can leak air into or out of your home.
• Check for open fireplace dampers.
• Make sure your appliances and heating and cooling systems are properly maintained. Check your owner’s manuals for the recommended maintenance.
• Study your family’s lighting needs and use patterns, paying special attention to high-use areas such as the living room, kitchen, and outside lighting. Look for ways to use lighting controls—like occupancy sensors, dimmers, or timers—to reduce lighting energy use, and replace standard (incandescent) light bulbs and fixtures with compact or standard fluorescent lamps.
How We Use Energy in Our Homes
Heating accounts for the biggest chunk of a typical utility bill.
Source: 2007 Buildings Energy Data Book, Table 4.2.1., 2005 energy cost data.
After you have identified where your home is losing energy, assign priorities by asking yourself a few important questions:
• How much money do you spend on energy?
• Where are your greatest energy losses?
• How long will it take for an investment in energy efficiency to pay for itself in energy cost savings?
• Do the energy-saving measures provide additional benefits that are important to you (for example, increased comfort from installing double-paned, efficient windows)?
• How long do you plan to own your current home?
• Can you do the job yourself or will you need to hire a contractor?
• What is your budget and how much time do you have to spend on maintenance and repair?
Once you assign priorities to your energy needs, you can form a whole house efficiency plan. Your plan will provide you with a strategy for making smart purchases and home improvements that maximize energy efficiency and save the most money.
Another option is to get the advice of a professional. Many utilities conduct energy audits for free or for a small charge. For a fee, a professional contractor will analyze how well your home’s energy systems work together and compare the analysis to your utility bills. He or she will use a variety of equipment such as blower doors, infrared cameras, and surface thermometers to find leaks and drafts. After gathering information about your home, the contractor or auditor will give you a list of recommendations for cost-effective energy improvements and enhanced comfort and safety. A reputable contractor can also calculate the return on your investment in high-efficiency equipment compared with standard equipment.
• Ask neighbors and friends for recommendations
• Look in the Yellow Pages
• Focus on local companies
• Look for licensed, insured contractors
• Get three bids with details in writing
• Ask about previous experience
• Check references
• Check with the Better Business Bureau
Thermogram/photograph copyright 1997, Infraspection Institute, Inc., Shelburne, VT
Heat Loss from a House
A picture is worth…in this case, lost heating dollars. This thermal photograph shows heat leaking from a house during those expensive winter heating months. The white, yellow, and red colors show heat escaping. The red represents the area of the greatest heat loss.
Contact your local Electric Company for details on an energy audit. These are the companies that service Western Mass:
Western Mass Electric Company
National Grid
NSTAR
Holyoke Gas & Electric
Westfield Gas & Electric
I don’t really want to get into the business of endorsing companies or products (aside from my own), but I had to mention the ReStore Home Improvement Center. Not only because of the fantastic service it is providing in the community, but also because its a non-profit organization!
From its website, ReStore’s mission is simple:
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They feature surplus or used building materials at bargain prices.
The well known do it yourself home improvement show “This Old House” featured the Albany Street store in an episode last year.
Not only can you purchase materials for home improvements there, but you can donate your surplus unused materials!
Also from the website:
“Are usable items being removed during your remodeling or construction project? Is your basement, garage or shop overflowing with stuff you can’t use but you know is too good to throw away?
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Donate your materials to the ReStore! (Try our convenient pick-up service.)
By donating, you can save useful materials from the landfill and help make home improvement more affordable for more people.
Donating can also help you:
As an added benefit, our contractors and other commercial donors notice that by working with the ReStore, they can better attract customers that care about the local community and environment.”
This is a fantastic local resource that we should value and support. Yeah those orange and blue big box stores are convenient, but why not drive a little farther to save some money and do something good for the planet, the local economy and for your own wallet?
Thank you to the folks at ReStore for everything they do to provide this fantastic service to the Pioneer Valley!
Restore Home Improvement Center
