A recent survey by Whirlpool Corp. and Habitat for Humanity shows that the key factor in green building is the cost of products and materials. The survey was conducted on behalf of Whirlpool Corp. and Habitat for Humanity by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Research Center and reported opinions on barriers to more affordable green building and how to overcome them.
According to the consumer survey, 59 percent indicated that lower cost of products and materials is needed for green homes to become more affordable. Builders were largely in agreement, with 75 percent indicating that the costs of materials and products for green homes need to be reduced.
“It’s encouraging for us to see that consumers and builders are taking a stronger interest in green housing concepts,” said Tom Halford, general manager, contract sales and marketing, Whirlpool Corp. “We need a combined voice of manufacturers, builders and volunteer organizations to continue helping the general public see the benefits of green building. Their collective input is valuable to us as we work to overcome the hurdles that are pointed out in the survey.”
Incentives for sustainable building and remodeling were also highlighted by consumers, with 53 percent responding that increased incentives for homeowners would help with green home affordability, while 36 percent suggested increased incentives for builders. The majority of consumers believe that state and federal governments should provide incentives for purchasing green building products.
Additionally, the survey showed that 77 percent of consumers feel that green homes are at least somewhat, if not very, important to them. The primary reasons noted for the importance of green homes were: the positive impacts on the environment, the long-term financial savings, and the health benefits for the family.
