I'm a student pursuing a degree in Home and Building Remodeling. I enjoy working with my hands and building things. I'm drawn more toward remodeling because I feel that, in the interest of sustainability, we will have to look toward rehabilitating existing structures in the future. We'll have to stop paving over productive farm land to build stripmalls. We'll have to invest in breathing new life into our delapidated urban centers. The HACC mid-town site is a perfect example of what I mean. Those buildings are living new lives thanks to some up-grades and remodeling.
The issue I plan to research is, "Some home and building remodels and upgrades that will help promote sustainability and energy efficiency." I've already learned quite a bit about this topic through my studies here at HACC. In plumbing, we compared new state-of-the-art methods and fixtures with the older, less efficient ones. Through carpentry and architecture classes I've learned about new building materials and methods that reduce waste and extend the lives of buildings. I've learned about new methods of insulating buildings that cut the cost of heating and cooling, thus reducing the consumption of fossil fuels, promoting sustainability, and saving money.
I hope that researching this topic will give me a clearer understanding of the reality of "green" remodeling. Right now, I only understand theory and possibility. I don't want to be naiive and idealistic when I get out into the market. Are these new methods and materials out of reach for the average home/property owner? How long do these investments take to pay off? How can I sell "green" upgrades?
These are a few questions that come to mind right now. I'm sure I'll have more questions and answers as I delve deeper into this subject.
I'm not sure who might be interested in following this blog and learning along with me. Other home and building remodeling students would hopefully get something out of it. Green technology and Environmental science students may find something interesting or useful in my upcoming research. I'm looking forward to getting started.
