Now more than ever, companies are more sustainably aware of their immediate environment, including contractors. In addition, homeowners are more apt to hire a contractor who is Eco aware. As a contractor, there are numerous ways you can be green and clean to help protect the earth.

Using Eco-Friendly Materials

Today going green is not just about saving the environment but it allows for more efficient heating and cooling. In fact, Energy Star HVAC systems lower your utility bill, have a higher resale value and increase the value of your home. Contractors can also be more “green” by using environmentally safe supplies that are non-toxic. For instance; using Eco friendly paint instead of conventional, buy supplies from sustainable sources and encourage customers to use Eco friendly materials. Contractors can also carry more sustainable supplies like stone tiles instead of vinyl and support Eco carpet instead of the toxic commercial carpet that can contain formaldehyde, benzene, acetone, toluene, styrene and a multitude of other volatile organic compounds.

Recycle and Upcycle

Another great way that contractors can be greener is to use recycled products. For instance, instead of using regular roofing tile you can look for recycled rubber roofing. In fact, according to the Green Building Supply, recycled rubber roofing is an investment that is tremendously practical and beautiful. The Eco friendly home center has some amazing examples.

Other Applications

Another way contractors can help the environment is by using less energy such as heated power blankets for keeping concrete sealant warm in the center. Heated power blankets, like those available from companies like Powerblanket, help keep concrete sealant warm so that it can be applied correctly. When compared to other methods like band heaters that can leave spots from concentrated areas and sometimes contaminate the entire container, heated power blankets are much more efficient and effective. If fact, they maintain optimum operating temperature at all times.

Lumber Selections

When it comes to protecting lumber, contractors can have a major influence on the reduction of waste, management of forests and sustainable options. As a contractors and home owner greener options include fast-growing bamboo, durable yet sustainable wood flooring and upcycled materials such as barn wood, well preserved whiskey barrels and salvaged wood from riverbeds. Things to avoid are products from or endangered tropical hardwoods and old growth timber. As well, look for lumber that comes from well managed and certified forests. Moreover, some contractors use recycled blends like hardwood-veneered medium density fiberboard (MDF) for cabinets and doors.

Other Great Options

There is a wide array of products that contractors can use to be more environmentally friendly. And it truly does not matter what kind of contracting you do, there are sustainable supplies that have an Eco price. For example, home builders can opt for recycled products. Roofers can use and upcycled rubber for a contemporary or traditional look. Cabinet makers can utilize the best sustainable materials around and so forth.

Even the grounds and landscaping of a home or commercial property can be Eco conscience such as better drainage systems, water saving sprinkler systems, trees for better shade in the summer and using natural methods of pest control instead of hazardous chemicals. High performance windows are also important, especially windows that have low-emissivity (low-E) glazes. These windows save energy on both heating and cooling.