My OperaGreen basics
Friday, May 9, 2008 2:39:22 AM
Materials used for the green construction (like those at BCIL) must obviously not compromise on the structural strength of the house. Selection should consciously encompass choices that will be practical as well as theme-adherent. Use ferro-cement precast slabs for the roof, moulded concrete blocks for the walls and avoided energy intensive ceramic tiles completely. People associate green buildings with low-cost materials and worse still, some associate it with poor quality materials. In fact, the construction cost of a green building maybe at par with that of a usual building. The idea is to make the selection least energy intensive and maximum eco-friendly. This explains the presence of appliances and fixtures that conserve energy. There are water saving taps and fixtures, CFL lamps, minimal use of non toxic paints and non errodable external surface which requires absolutely no maintenance. Wood is restricted to the door, staircase treads, cabinets and the master bedroom flooring. Mostly rubber wood and jack wood are used, both being non forest timber. Door and window frames are in metal. Correct placement of doors and windows ensure maximum cross ventilation. Water heaters are powered by solar panels. In short, the materials chosen are practical and save enough energy.
