When embarking in the home buying process, there are many things to consider. Many new homes may need to be remodeled or repaired. Many homes may need inspections, repairs or renovations, especially in areas that are susceptible to natural disasters. Having the assistance of an experienced and reliable Coral Springs, FL real estate agent can make this process easy and stress free.

It is important to take note of the consequences of older building materials whose qualities not only harm the environment, but can create health concerns. Building green will have profound impacts in many facets of life. The adaption of green building and alternative energy solutions will play an important role in the transformation to a healthier and sustainable world.

Asbestos

Highly utilized more than a century ago, asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was used heavily in building and construction applications. Its flame resistant and highly durable qualities made it an ideal choice for manufacturers. Asbestos normally appeared as insulation for piping, roofing, siding and flooring in homes. Many homes or buildings built prior to 1980 may still contain asbestos materials. This fact should not make you overly worried because exposure to asbestos can be easily avoidable by taking simple precautions.

Healthy Tips

It must be noted that not all asbestos poses health risks. Asbestos that is disturbed or damaged due to age is known as “friable” asbestos. This is a concern because its toxic fibers can easily circulate and become inhaled. If any suspected asbestos is located, the best advice is to leave it alone. If you are having home renovations, performed, do not panic. Again, asbestos that is left un-disturbed will normally pose no threat.

If asbestos needs to be removed, it should be performed by licensed abatement contractors. These contractors are trained in the handling and disposal of asbestos in public facilities and homes.

The inhalation of airborne asbestos fibers can result in the development of related illnesses such as asbestosis and mesothelioma. Diagnosis by doctors has been a difficult task because symptoms are so similar to other, less serious conditions. Mesothelioma compensation has become tough to predict for victims and their families because diagnosis can take 20-50 years. For this reason, many people refer to it as a silent killer.

Florida Going GREEN

Implementing green methods of building can have positive environmental, health and economic benefits. These include:

-          Conservation of natural resources

-          Enhance air quality and protect ecosystems

-          Energy sustainability

-          Increase property value

-          Improve quality of life

-          Improvement of pulmonary and cardiac health

-          Reduce waste

Environmental efficiency is on the rise because of technology and green sustainable methods progressing rapidly.  Not only will these methods produce a healthier lifestyle, it will save you money! The Department of Energy concluded that cooling and heating counts for up to 50-70 percent of all energy used in the average home in the U.S. In today’s state, this philosophy can also save natural resources.

Environmentally sustainable insulations are made from recycled materials including cellulose, polyurethane foam and cotton fiber.  Cotton fiber is made from recycled batted material and treated to be fireproof. A water based spray polyurethane foam, lcynene features no toxic components. The implementation of these eco-friendly products can reduce annual energy costs in the household by 25 percent annually.