You don't need to go to extreme measures like a grass-covered roof or building expensive renewable sources to harness energy to have a green building. But you do need a contractor who's familiar with LEED or NAHB Green certification. Going green can reduce energy costs by 30 percent or more, not to mention taking advantage of numerous local and national governmental tax credits, and well documented studies identifying up to 10% increases in property value.

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is both a program and a series of standards led by the U.S. Green Building Council that contractors must follow to meet commercial and public government buildings certification process. There are three levels, which reflect an increasing commitment to environmentally friendly design and construction. The NAHB Green certification from the National Association of Home Builders is similar to the LEED certification, but only for residential projects. Instead of levels, NAHB Green standards entirely encompass single-family residential new construction/remodels and multi-unit properties. Each standard is tailored to meet the needs of the home's intended occupants while maximizing efficiency.

As our understanding of sustainability has moved beyond energy and water efficiency, it has shifted the ways the industry defines excellence in construction. In many ways, green now defines the way we live and work. The trained and experienced professionals at econstruct, Inc. know the standards and are committed to helping guide clients on options that meet their own personal needs and interests.

In short, we not only build green, we can help you document it and benefit from it.