Vancouver Wa Real Estate - Elite Realty NW

A Tip For Greening Up Your Own Home

Not everyone can afford to live in a newly built LEED certified home, but there are things that you can do to make your current home healthier to live in. Many of these things will even add value to your home when it comes time to sell. Here is a green tip that you can use to create a healthier and happier home.

The carpeting in your home is one of the biggest offenders when it comes to indoor air quality. Unless it is one of the new green low VOC varieties, it is likely off-gassing toxins into your home. That "New Carpet Smell" is actually chemistry in the carpet that is dissipating into the air. Off-gassing can occur for several years after installation and can cause allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to it.

Another problem with carpet is the fact that it traps dust and microscopic particulates. These are also allergens and can build up to dangerous levels in a short period of time. I was recently told by a carpet installer that the carpet that is removed often times weighs more than twice what the new carpet weighs. That is a lot of DIRT!

The smart guys at the United States Building Council recognize this fact and actually give extra points for new construction with hard surface floors. When the time comes to replace carpeting in your home, a smart choice might be to replace it with hardwood or tile.

When dealing with buyers, one of the most requested features in a home is hardwood floors. Hardwood floors rank higher than granite countertops. This will give you an advantage over your neighbors carpeted home when the time comes to sell.  

See? It not only makes your home more comfortable and healthy but it adds value too!

I took this photograph at the Clark County Parade of Homes which is sponsored by the BIA. These floors were in "The Green Haus" and were made out of wood that was salvaged from an old barn.

When you choose us to handle your Vancouver Washington real estate needs, you choose a team of realtors® who care about you and your family. Buying or selling a home is always more enjoyable when you work with professionals who will listen to your needs and who will work together with you to achieve your objective. We are very familiar with all types a real estate in Clark County and we specialize in Vancouver, Ridgefield and Battle Ground. We are also very experienced with new home and custom home construction having assisted several local builders in selling new neighborhoods in the Vancouver Washington area.  Additionally, we have helped numerous families build their own Vancouver Washington dream homes. We are dedicated to helping you make intelligent, informed decisions and to providing you with exceptional service. Go to www.ernw.org for more information. See our video here.