Insights on Green Renovation?
In the final stages of planning on a gut renovation of a 4 story, 3 family; everything will be new. The GC I’m leaning towards is very excited about more energy-efficient solutions that my architect generally dismissed as unaffordable when I first inquired a few months ago. But a quick look at NYS incentives does…
In the final stages of planning on a gut renovation of a 4 story, 3 family; everything will be new. The GC I’m leaning towards is very excited about more energy-efficient solutions that my architect generally dismissed as unaffordable when I first inquired a few months ago. But a quick look at NYS incentives does make the move seem intriguing. Has anyone investigated green equipment installation and incentives, or actually seen all the way to the rebates?
I used UltraTouch cotton insulation (made from recycled jeans and stuff) and it is not that much more expensive than fiberglass and whole lot nicer to work with. Can’t tell you anything about tax incentives.
I’m sorry I wasn’t more specific in my original post. I’m mailnly focusing on PV panels and insulation, or any other energy-efficient endeavors that might have rebate/tax incentives.
PV panels are a definite alternative. You get incentives from NYSERDA and maybe others. You can install a net-metering system that sells excess electriciy to ConEd if you’re not using it. Payback is typically 10 years.
Check into ultra-high efficiency units (96%). If you have non-zoned water or steam radiators, install themostatic valves on each.
Installing separate smaller water heaters is more efficient than one large one, and saves wasted water on initial runs. On-demand water heaters I wouldn’t recommend, being over-hyped as to energy savings and having higher maintenance.
Don’t install carpeting. It’s high offgassing. There are brands that are ‘sustainable’ and low-offgassing if you have to. Same for paints.
Insulation is pretty standard. Use as much as feasible.
Look into a green roof, it’s great insulation, looks good and reduces carbon load.
Original poster here. I’m sorry I wasn’t specific enough.
Mainly I’m referring to energy-efficiency, such as insulation and PV panels or any alternatives. Any other efforts that might be incentivized too, like finishing materials.
the term green is very broad… what are you thinking about specifically?