Green-built
homes will take an increasingly large percentage of the market in direct
proportion to their price because home buyers’ prime motivation today is cost-effectiveness,
according to representatives from four suppliers and product manufacturers who
spoke Jan. 13 at the National Association of Home BuildersInternational
Builders’ Showin Orlando, Fla.
“The
key is value for every stakeholder in the process,” from the manufacturer to the
builder and the home buyer, saidRichard Davenport,
director of sustainable construction forBASF.
The
good news, saidKohler’sRob Zimmerman, is that
product manufacturers have been able to focus on the creation of new technology
during the current building downturn “that will make green building more
affordable.”
The
speakers represented the sponsors of NAHB’s fourth annual Green Day, held each
year to commemorate growth in green, energy-efficient and sustainable home
building and remodeling practices. They gave their remarks at the opening press
conference.
The
very rural location ofMarvin Windows and Doors’Minnesota manufacturing
facility has forced the company to be more resourceful, saidChristine
Marvin, the fourth generation of her family to work in the
business. “Our commitment is to use our resources wisely,” and that applies to
its products as well.
Speaking
on behalf of theCouncil for Reponsible EnergywasCarter
Oosterhouse, star of several home-improvement cable television
shows, who told reporters that he started out as a carpenter in his home state
of Michigan. Now, with the platform that comes from reaching millions of
viewers, Oosterhouse can also deliver the message that homeowner education and
awareness is key to meeting energy-efficiency goals.