Green Renovations — Basements

Virtually all homeowners will find something of use in this detailed and practical fact sheet from Central Mortgage and Housing Corp (CMHC).  If you're planning a basement renovation, it's a must read, filled with time, energy and money saving tips, features and advice on how to green any project, from extensive, expensive renos to slower, more affordable and incremental upgrades.

The guide explains nine site factors to consider during the planning stage (structural conditions, air quality and circulation, moisture and water problems, mold, lead, asbestos and soil gases) as well as steps to remediate, when necessary, or incorporate corrective actions into your renovation plans.  There are specific suggestions for each type of upgrade including lighting, plumbing, flooring, painting, mechanical and electrical.

The fact sheet also details CMHC's  five principles of Healthy Housing™ and  includes a concise checklist that all homeowners contemplating a reno can use.  To read more click here.