ATLANTA, July 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Half of the National Association of Home Builders builder members incorporate green into their building practices. In 2006, two percent of homes built were considered "green" and estimates suggest that number will rise to 10 percent of homes in 2010. Why has this practice increased so rapidly? Green homes reduce energy use through exacting construction systems such as extensive air sealing measures, resource efficient design and building materials, indoor air quality and moisture controls and installation of energy-saving appliances. Recently, Brock Built City Neighborhoods, leader in the revitalization of Atlanta's Westside, announced that all Brock Built homes will be constructed to EarthCraft standards. One of the leading green building certification programs in the Southeast, "EarthCraft homes are healthier for your family, are more enduring and protect the environment," said LaTaunynia Campbell, an EarthCraft House staff member and home inspector. "We utilize improved construction techniques, wide-range air sealing measures and appropriate heating and cooling units," said Steve Brock, owner and CEO of Brock Built, LLC. "Every home is inspected and tested by EarthCraft for factors such as air leakage and carbon monoxide safety." Purchasing a green home is a better investment because homeowners can save on energy costs as well as have lower water and sewer bills, maintenance and repair costs and even doctor's bills for health problems related to poor indoor air quality. "While green buildings can cost up to 10% more to construct, the long-run energy savings approach 35%, and as the market increases for these materials, these costs will decrease, increasing savings for owners of green homes," said the Executive Director of Atlanta's Urban Land Institute, Jeffrey DuFresne. Some builders build green just because they think it is the right thing to do. "As Atlanta continues to grow, new home builders must take responsibility for the rapid rate of progression in and around the city," said Brock. "Brock Built's mission is to improve the communities where we are building -- and using 'green' methods of building supports this goal. Our homeowners can now trust that their home will outperform others in terms of environmental friendliness and healthy construction." More good news: homeowners report extraordinarily high levels of satisfaction with green homes, which are commanding up to 15% higher resale value than traditional homes. In other words, more "green" for going green.
