Green Home Basics Questions

Does PEX tubing constitute an offgassing problem when applied under existing hardwood flooring?

— Denise L Bainbridge Island, WA

Answered by Randy Potter on June 9, 2010

We need to replace the aluminum gutters on our home. Any green home gutter and downspout ideas?

— Ruby Smith Herndon, VA

Answered by Randy Potter on June 6, 2010

We have old cast-iron pipe for our plumbing waste, but it is rusting out and needs replacement. What can we use instead of PVC?

— Amy Mudd Louisville, KY

Answered by Joshua Lloyd on May 20, 2010

Is vinyl siding a green product? What other home siding options are available that would be easy like vinyl?

— Carol Falls Creek, PA

Answered by Christian Kienapfel | AIA Architect | RA | LEED AP | Dipl.-Ing. Architekt (Germany) on May 20, 2010

We have a 1952 Cape-style house in MA and are considering vinyl clapboards instead of cedar shingles. Is Mastic by Ply Gem the best brand?

— Mark Whitney Mattapoisett, MA

Answered by Rick Goyette on May 16, 2010

In a Passive House wall assembly, is the vapor barrier on the inside or outside?

— Mark Hoyt Olympia, WA

Answered by Tessa Smith on May 13, 2010

What are some inexpensive ways that I can make my house more eco friendly?

— John Chicago, IL

Answered by Tammy Schwolsky, LEED AP, GPR, HPwES on May 11, 2010

Cedar shakes are used in our historic area of Palm Springs. Are cedar shingles considered a sustainable roofing system?

— Reuel Young Palm Springs, CA

Answered by David Lavender on May 5, 2010

Is there a comprehensive listing of manufacturers of various green building materials, by state?

— Gerrie Virginia Beach, VA

Answered by Karen Smuland on April 30, 2010

I am thinking about LEED for Homes. I live in a side-by-side ranch-style duplex. Can I certify just my side of the property?

— Kristopher Reimann Madison, WI

Answered by Rick Goyette on April 30, 2010

We need to replace the exterior trim on our home, which currently has cedar siding and wood trim. What do you recommend?

— JP Holden, MA

Answered by Rick Goyette on April 29, 2010

I would like to use graywater for my 150-year-old brownstone in New Jersey. Is it feasible to use the old cistern?

— David Sporkin Jersey City, NJ

Answered by Polly Osborne, AIA, LEED AP on April 26, 2010

Is there a residential hot water pump that will activate when a hot water tap is opened?

— James Brentwood, TN

Answered by Polly Osborne, AIA, LEED AP on April 26, 2010

I am planning to make my own plywood doors. I have no information on what to put inside the frame or how it is done. Please help!

— s.s. de silva Accident, MD

Answered by Earthship Biotecture on April 26, 2010

I'm seeking recommendations for re-siding a farmhouse in central Illinois built around the turn of the century.

— Lisa Bement, IL

Answered by Rick Goyette on April 22, 2010

 

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