Berkeley Craftsmen

Green Building is a method of design and construction that promotes and supports the well being and health of your household, the community, and the environment. Green Building methods and products can reduce utility costs, cut down maintenance costs, and typically require fewer replacements.

We work hard to conserve the Earth's natural resources. To do this, we make decisions in every job to maximize efficient building materials. Our employees have built large scale projects using straw bale construction. We have also built a 17,000 foot winery, straw bale homes, and concrete wall homes which are very energy efficient and beautiful.

Examples of Green Building materials and applications:

• Bamboo is a popular sustainable growth product we have used in place of traditional oak flooring.
• Concrete floor slabs can be stained to mimic the appearance of tile and can be heated with radiant technology.
• Reclaimed Douglas Fir flooring also provides a beautiful look. Reclaimed woods used in cabinetry, exposed beams, and other wood finishes adds character and saves trees. When aesthetics are not an issue, structural wood composition products can be used.
• Building walls out of straw bale or concrete make a house very energy efficient in the summer and winter.
• Using double paned windows cut heating costs and can be installed in existing window frames to save money.
• Countertops can be made from recycled glass with a huge color selection.
• Low VOC paints that do not give off toxic gases are available.
• Selecting high R-value insulation for the ceilings and walls of our remodels and new homes helps minimize heat loss.
• Insulation made from recycled cotton denim can be used in lieu of fiberglass.