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Book Review

Green Remodeling: Changing the World One Room at a Time

by David R. Johnston, Kim Master

Millions of people in the U.S. renovate their homes every year, spending more money annually on renovation than on new-home construction, that is a good idea, as new construction is not always better. But, renovations come with their own consequences like indoor air pollution. So, how do you remodel in a healthy, environmentally friendly way?

The book discusses simple green renovation solutions, focusing on key aspects of the building, including foundations, framing, plumbing, windows, heating and finishes. Room-by-room, it outlines the intricate connections that make the house work as one system. For example, how new windows may affect the structure and mechanical systems of the rooms below, the health of the family and the future of old-growth forests. Then, in an easy-to-read format complete with checklists, personal stories, expert insights and an extensive resource list, it covers easy ways to save energy, conserve natural resources and protect the health of loved ones while addressing all climates. This is a perfect resource for conventional homeowners, as well as for architects and remodeling contractors.

Not a book to be read cover-to-cover, except by some, it can be used more as a reference book, looking up whatever needs addressing. It does a good job covering a broad topic; with many "green" strategies connecting them with a common denominator: Save, Protect, and Preserve natural resources. Capital costs will definitely be higher in the short-term and it is hard to predict or confirm short term pay-backs, as most are not always obvious, like health benefits. Once a value is put on not going green, like health effects of off-gassing, and the long term big picture makes obvious sense, reasonable pay-backs are definitely attainable.

The book is a great way to have a wealth of information on green building that is well organized with its checklists. A wonderful resource in anyone's library who is their own remodeler, or does it as a business.

David Johnston was named one of the top 50 remodelers in the U.S. in 1990 by Remodeling Magazine. In the U.S. he is developing the first green remodeling program and is working on a national green certification program for the National Association of the Remodeling Industry along with training remodelers across the country. Kim Master is a green building consultant. Both are from Boulder, Colorado.

Buy a copy of: Green Living: The E Magazine Handbook for Living Lightly on the Earth

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