The environment is precious. Keeping it pure and respecting the future makes sense. But what about your pocketbook? Does it cost more or save more when it comes to our homes? I get asked about green building all the time.

Question: Does building a "green home" really save on energy bills?

Answer: It should! Not all "green building" is created equally, however. When building the home's structure, look for products and building methods that will create lasting value and ongoing energy savings.

An energy saving home should include the following building choices:

* Energy efficient wall systems like SIPs, ICFs, and hay bales to name just a few, can provide insulation and barriers that make good use of the energy the home is using.
* Spray foam insulated walls & ceilings to create your own wall systems
* When you utilize energy efficient wall systems and ceilings, you'll want highly efficient double or triple pane windows as well so as not to diminish the benefits of the walls.

While the structure is vital to long-term benefits, there is also the issue of the efficient and frugal use of energy in your home. The products you install are the most important.

Green homes would usually include these products as well:

* A high efficiency heating and air conditioning system
* Energy Star and other efficient home appliances
* LED and other low energy light bulbs

Building your home with these products and building methods will likely cost you from two to eight percent more but the savings will continue for as long as you live in the home.

Consider a Bigger Green Building Investment for More Savings

Solar, wind, and geothermal are even more natural ways to "go green" but generally require a heftier up front investment. If you are going to be living in your home for a long time, and long-term savings is your goal, it's wise to consider these options too.

Going green, when done correctly, is beneficial to our environment and in the longer term, it truly does save you money on energy bills.

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