How to Plan, Contract, and Build Your Own Home, Fifth Edition: Green Edition (How to Plan, Contract Build Your Own Home)

Publisher's Note: Products purchased from Third Party sellers are not guaranteed by the publisher for quality, authenticity, or access to any online entitlements included with the product.The All-in-One Custom Homebuilders Guide--Fully Updated with the Latest Green Construction MethodsHow to Plan, Contract, and Build Your Own Home, fifth edition, gives you the information you need during every step of the homebuilding process--from selecting materials to designing the rooms to working with a contractor. Featuring practical, cost-effective ways of planning, designing, and building energy-efficient homes, the book presents money- and energy-saving options in every chapter.This thoroughly revised reference explains how you can implement many of the green construction strategies that make up the U.S. Green Building Council's award-winning Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) guidelines. Written by experienced instructors and builders, this is the most complete planning and homebuilding resource available.Learn how to:Select the building site that best suits your projectDetermine floor plans and types of construction, foundations, framing, and finishingUse energy-efficient electric, lighting, heating, cooling, and insulationChoose the best quality floors, wall coverings, fixtures, and appliances for your budgetIntegrate green construction systems, components, and materials throughout your homeInclude amenities such as decks, patios, gazebos, sidewalks, and drivewaysFind and work with an established, skilled, and reliable contractor