Greensmart Building

If you're building a new home, make sure it is positioned to make the most of passive design principles. If you're renovating, consider changing rooms around to take passive design into account.
Incorporate shading structures or eaves to minimise the entry of summer sun and allow penetration from winter sun.
Insulate walls, floors and ceilings of the home with the most suitable material and one that has the highest R-value for the job.
Seal draughts around the external doors and windows and install self- sealing exhaust fans in the bathrooms, toilet and laundry areas.
Select window glazing - e.g. single, double or tinted - that achieves optimum glazing conditions for your climate. The correct placement and selection of windows will also help maximise cross ventilation.
Zone the layout so you have more control on the areas of the home that need to be cooled or heated.
Select the most energy efficient white goods and lighting appliances that you can afford.
Install four-star rated toilets, water efficient tap ware and shower roses.
Consider installing treated waste water systems or rainwater tanks to help reduce the amount of potable water used in and around the home.
Purchase renewable energy for household use or install photovoltaic systems where your budget allows.

Brett Tapscott is an accredited Greensmart Professional.