Sustainable Building

The term “green building” or “sustainable building” is used by many and in diverse ways.  We define it here as providing...
Site orientation and landscaping have a large impact on how energy-efficient a home will be. The sun is the main source of heat in all homes. By...
The net cost of owning a green home can be comparable to that of owning a conventional home – sometimes even less.  On average, green...
Energy Star Manuals Energy Star Building Science Guide HVAC Contractors Preparing for Energy Star Version 3.0 Guide Indoor Air Qaulity...
Many people do not understand the importance of including accessibility features in a home for a family who does not have disabilities. Various...
All new Habitat for Humanity homes built in Michigan must comply with the standards and criteria adopted by the HFHM Board of Directors in order to...
The Sustainable Building Program at Habitat for Humanity of Michigan has worked to incorporate the above sustainability and accessibility features...
As numerous Michigan communities are experiencing slowed or negative growth, combined with dramatic drops in real estate values, many affiliates...
 Asbestos Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals and was widely used in buildings for fireproofing, thermal and acoustical...
Many homes that Habitat affiliates consider for rehabilitation were constructed before 1978 and therefore are likely to have lead-based...

Resources

Sustainable Building Documents

NAHB Green Home Building Checklist
ENERGY STAR Thermal Bypass Guide
Affiliate Sustainable Practices Survey Analysis February 2009
Mold, Moisture, and Your Home
Chapter 5-7
Environments For Living Certified Green Checklist
ENERGY STAR Thermal Bypass Checklist