Let's Go Green, Together!

Here at All-Build lately, there has been a lot of talk about going green. After all, business doesn't have to be just business. We would like to see All-Build Construction be more than just a business. We want to be a business that gives back to our planet and to our community. That is why we would like to start doing renovations designed to increase energy efficiency and reduce the carbon footprint. It is our goal to work in larger, multi-unit buildings, which beyond the great benefits for the climate, also presents great benefits to the owners and tenants. Here is just a few. 

For landlords, green buildings put you ahead of the competition. They set you apart from the rest of the market. Each unit becomes more valuable and commands higher rent prices.

Green homes typically rent at a much faster rate as a whole new crowd will be drawn to the property.  

Operating costs will lower dramatically, further adding to your bottom line. 

There are tax breaks and incentives offered to energy efficient owners. 

Nearly all those who invested in energy saving renovations see a return on that investment in less than ten years. 

So, why not reduce negative environmental impact and save money at the same time?

Stainless Steel Kitchen Countertops

Image credit: HGTV

Stainless steel countertops are great for prepping food and really easy to clean. Plus they are durable and heat resistant. We came across a really good article from HGTV on stainless steel countertops. This is our overview of the article.

Stainless steel countertops are usually custom fit to any area of your kitchen. There are many different finishes from polished to brushed to hammered. Stainless steel countertops can make your kitchen appear larger because of the reflective surface. 

Image credit: HGTV

Pros: The material is durable, long-lasting, eco-friendly, won't fade in color or chip. It won't hold any stains and heat won't damage it.

Cons: It will show fingerprints and can be noisy, scratched or dented. It also requires a certain cleaner.

If stainless steel doesn't appeal to you, there are other metals available. Other options include copper, pewter, zinc and bronze.

Read the full article on HGTV here.

Ideas for a Green Home Remodel

Image Credit: The Venice Art Terrazzo Company

You've been thinking about remodeling your home. Consider an eco-friendly and health friendly remodel with green renovations. Take a look at our list of green home remodeling ideas.

• Reclaimed wood flooring, it's renewable, versatile and durable. Plus no new trees must be chopped down to create the floor. 
• Use low or no VOCs paints or adhesives.
• Terrazzo countertops, it's made from chips of recycled glass and cast into a concrete slap. It's durable, easy to clean and available in many different color schemes. 
• Replace your old appliances to Energy Star. These will help to save money in one herm.
• Use less water with installing flow reducers and low flow model toilets.
• Place windows and skylights is places to utilize natural sunlight.

Upgrading Your Home with Bamboo Floors

It's time to tear out that old linoleum floor and upgrade with beautiful hardwood! Hardwood floors are so easy to clean and take care of. Plus it comes in a wide variety of different wood, so it can fit in any budget. 

Image credit: Home Depot

Bamboo flooring is a popular type that is fairly inexpensive but will still look and feel the way you want. Homeowners enjoy Bamboo because of the durability and it's eco-friendly. It can also add a unique look and adapt to any decorating style. Bamboo flooring can be dyed into a variety of colors or it can come in natural, finished or unfinished. 

When it come to maintenance, Bamboo floors can be fairly easy to maintain. A simple vacuum or sweep regularly will help remove the small debris. Occasionally you can mop or clean it with a hardwood or bamboo floor cleaner. However, it's important to clean up after every spill so the liquid doesn't damage, stain or warp the flooring. 

There are many other types of hardwood floors available. Take a look at these others, Mahogany, Chestnut, Oak, and Maple hardwood.