Many of us are attracted to the idea of “greening” our homes. Few of us have the opportunity to build a sustainable home from scratch and take advantage of the latest methods and materials.

Here is the challenge: How do we bring our older homes into the new millennium and up to current energy standards?

1. Get an energy assessment (or audit) by a seasoned, certified energy auditor. (Post Remodeling & Handyman Services is a certified energy auditor.) The leading certifiers are Building Performance Institute (BPI) and Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) certified. The report offers a thorough analysis, and a prioritized list of conservation measures, their effectiveness and ROI (return on investment) or SIR (savings to investment ratio). This is essential and will guide you in “greening” your home.

2. Avoid the temptation to employ sexier tactics like solar arrays or bamboo floors, and commit to the report’s recommendations. Usually, the rudimentary work includes behind-the-scenes measures like air sealing and insulating. While this work is not exciting, it will usually last the life of your home and have a relatively quick ROI. Some of the work can be self-performed if you are reasonably skilled. Your safety is paramount as is adherence to building codes, so due diligence and patience are required.

3. After the work has been completed, it is time to have fun employing more advanced measures like solar electric or hot water, geothermal, rain gardens or harvesting, LED or passive lighting, home energy monitoring, advanced ventilation systems, passive solar, or other cutting edge tactics.

As you can see, there is a sound methodology to use when “greening” your home. It requires discipline and commitment. The results pay you back with greater comfort, lower utility bills, bolstered home value, and a sense that you have accomplished something really meaningful.