In these lean times, builders are building less but more. What I mean by that is that we have fewer opportunities to build but when we do, more is expected. Homeowners don't want what everyone else has. But in reality they do. They want what the Jones have but only better. The builders job is getting harder. We aren't just builders, we are needing to become more informed on current trends, innovative new products and probably the fastest growing segment "green" or "sustainability". We are now needing to be consultants. As a builder, I am finding it near impossible to be informed on the latest green products and trends. Where do I go? What do I read? Who do I believe? Especially as I am becoming a salesperson of these products. So, I was hoping this site would be of help to me. I am a green newbie. Anyone have any advice on innovative new green products? Good green companies? HELP!
THE BUILDERS ROLE - HELP!
Monday, 09/27/2010 | Posted by Jeffrey Hicks
Show more comments (2)
-
Lorna Fear Products? Sustainability is not about buying cool new stuff! What we really need is new behaviors. People will change if they believe others are doing it. So what if a product's been tested. Does it mitigate some problem so the homeowner can continue wasteful habits? I realize builders need to do satisfy their customers to stay in business. Rather than becoming a salesperson, how about becoming an eco-teacher?
10/14/2010 -
Charles Shade Ask your client what they would like to achieve. Then you would have a basis for providing the "green" information that is relevant to them. Most want to save money on heating and cooling costs. Few worry themselves that the tree harvested for the wall stud came from Canada or Oregon or less than 500 miles down the road...
10/14/2010 -
Brynn Davis Really good point Lorna. The hard part is you have builders that would like to build sustainably but don't know where to start. Products is the easiest place to get their head around. Charles, another good point. We do need to look at the manufacturing and transportation of products put into a home. These all tie into utilizing our resources wisely. The webinars in November with several green builders might tie nicely to your point of educating the homeowner.
10/14/2010 -
Thomas Meyers Also be careful about approvals. If it attaches to a house, it will be regulated. You will need to determine if the product is tested to meet the requirements of the building code. For instance, if it is an interior finish material on walls or ceilings, it must have a flame spread of 200 or less. ICC-ES Evaluation Reports on the product will help ensure code official acceptance.
10/19/2010