GreenStreet LI Home | A Basement Makeover




A Basement Makeover
2010-00-28 


A basement makeover can add space, value and comfort, and
also cut costs and energy use with a few green adjustments. 

GOOD:
Basements are prone to mold, asbestos and other contaminants, so before demolition kicks into high gear, have a professional check for signs of mold. Depending on the findings, remediation may require you to take special steps to protect you and the rest of your home. Work with only “certified mold inspector” or remediation specialists.

BETTER:
Decorate with eco-friendly materials. In paints, choose low- or no-VOC brands (volatile organic compounds). For wood floors, bamboo, marmoleum and cork are good renewable alternatives to endangered woods
like mahogany, redwood, and spruce.
In carpets, opt for natural/woven/ non-VOC blends over synthetic/tufted ones for lower eco-impact and more durability.

BEST:
For humid Long Island basements, moisture barriers are key. Look for water and mold adverse wall solutions that keep air clean and upkeep simple. Sal Ferro of Alure Home Improvements says the Owens Corning System fits the bill and its insulated panels are made from 40% recycled materials.

VOCs in your paint choice should be lower than 150 gm/l

Many boiler, insulation, window and door
upgrades qualify for up to $1,500 in tax credits.
Visit
 www.energytaxincentives.org for details

Cork flooring is 50% air, hypo-allergenic and a naturally fire retardant insulator—thermally and acoustically. For more non-toxic flooring options, visit www.forbo.com and
 http://www.greenfloors.com

One Simple Thing:
Before a makeover, get a comprehensive home energy audit to find air and water leaks to see how your heating/cooling and electrical systems are working.
Visit the Alure Home Improvement booth at Roosevelt Field Mall this Sunday (Aug. 23) for a 1-day only GreenStreet LI 20% discount.


Bookmark and Share

GreenStreetLI.com is written and produced by Newsday Community Affairs, and does not involve the reporting and editing staff of Newsday. Some of the content is provided by the advertisers.