Who doesn’t love a good top 10 list? David Letterman, I’m looking at you! Product lists are especially helpful if you’re looking to branch out from your usual favorites. You probably have your eco-friendly mainstays like programmable thermostats, CFLs, VOC-free paint and EnergyStar appliances.
If you’re looking to broaden your green horizons, try incorporating something from Sustainable Industries’ top 10 green building products. Some of the products may be better suited for commercial applications, but we picked a few of our favorites that would be excellent additions to your eco-friendly home.
Greensulate: Created by Ecovative Design, Greensulate “is the world’s first sustainable rigid board insulation,” according to the company. It’s grown, not manufactured, from agricultural byproducts such as cotton seed and buckwheat hulls. The result is a product that’s safe to touch and requires no safety gear during installation. It’s also chemical- and VOC-free, and comes with a class 1 fire rating. The standard-size insulation sheets are great for exterior, roof and floor insulation, and custom sheets can be cut if you’re in need of a specific application.
SageGlass: You know those lenses that become tinted when you’re in the sun so that you don’t have to worry about a separate pair of sunglasses? SageGlass is kinda like that, but way cooler. Created by Sage Electrochromics Inc., SageGlass is electrochromic glass that can switch from clear to darkly tinted with the push of a button. This makes it ideal for skylights and oversized windows–you can enjoy an abundance of natural light but also have the ability to create dimmer surroundings. SageGlass is currently available in fixed and casement styles and can be purchased from Marvin Windows and Doors and Weather-Tek Design Center.
SmartSlope Living Retaining Wall: Let’s face it – retaining walls serve a vital function, but they’re not terribly attractive. Enter the SmartSlope Living Retaining Wall, which uses fewer concrete modules so that hardscapes can be converted into greenscapes. You’ll still get structural slope retention from 50 to 70 degrees, and the SmartSlope also helps reduce storm water runoff. SmartSlope is DIY-friendly, and you can even access a list of recommended plants depending on your desired landscaping commitment, sun exposure and other critical factors. As the plants grow from the wall, the root systems will weave throughout the modules, tying them together so that the wall will strengthen over time.
What did you think of our picks? Did any of the featured products catch your eye?
Photo via SmartSlope
No Comments