By Brian Burris

Saving the environment may be the best reason to be green, but it's no longer the only reason.

The cost of both building materials and home heating fuels is rising, which makes going green a smart investment for anyone building or upgrading their home. There are many ways to accomplish energy efficiency, from new windows and siding to insulation and high-efficiency heat sources. But there are also obstacles -- some builders claim to be green when they really aren't, while others cut corners on installation practices. An important part of being green means doing the homework that will pay off down the road.

Knowledge of green products will allow you to have a better idea of what to expect before the contractor ever comes to your home. 

1. First, talk to your local lumber yard sales rep about educational materials to help you better understand the green process. Another good resource is www.energy.gov, their "For Consumers" link on the left side is particularly useful to find out what improvements could be considered for your home. Sometimes the government even has special programs and rebates for energy efficient improvements.
2. The next step is to find a green contractor. Typically the lumber yard will be able to recommend quality builders in your area.
3. Don't be afraid to ask tough questions to potential contractors. Find out where they gets their materials: a truly green builder will only buy from local distributors. Ask what green projects the contractor has previously completed and what ideas they have for your home. A quality builder will have plenty of satisfied customers willing to provide references. Going through this process will help you decide which contractor is right for you.
4. Once you've found a contractor, familiarize yourself with the manufacturer's installation guidelines. These are available at the local lumber yard or at the manufacturer's website. Educating yourself makes it easy to hold your contractor responsible for following the guidelines and upholding the terms of a manufacturer's warranties. In many cases, the manufacturer may be willing to come to your home to certify that all work has been done properly.

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