Okay, I’m no green guru, but I am happy to render my opinion on whatever green questions you post here– though admittedly, green building is the area I have the most experience with.
To leave a question, enter it where it says “Leave a Reply” at the bottom of the page below.
Hi Joe, Gertie gave me your site name and I gave it to someone who is building a green house in Pawley’s Island, SC. Gertie didn’t say u’r still bldg…. we’re in the middle of a house remodel… wish you were closer for advice. Can you use the recycled denim you showed us as insulation under a floor that has no basement.?.. i.e. it sits on cinder block and dirt in a 4 foot crawl space or is it only for walls/attic areas? Also, is there a way to harness the heat exhaust from dryer vents safely? Hi to Doug. — Chris n Liz
Chris, thanks for your patience for my response here. Now that I’ve finally got this blog up and running, I promise to reply to comments faster.
YES Ultra Touch recycled denim would be a great insulation product under your floors. Check out the manufacturer’s web site http://www.bondedlogic.com/ultratouch.htm. You’ll probably also have to use a vapor barrier. Although polyethylene sheeting is used for this, you can readily find recycled plastic sheeting if you look for it.
I don’t recommend attempting heat recovery from dryer vents. Interestingly, I did find several U.S. patents for products that claim to do this, however, if these units ever make it to market, they might not pass local building codes; they would be prone to increase risk of fire from the filtered lint; and in a humid climate, it’s not a good idea to pump more humid air inside.
If you want to be on the cutting edge of heat recovery, check out drain waste heat recovery systems: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/inventions/pdfs/waterfilm.pdf
Also, It’s a good idea to buy an energy star-rated washer & dryer. And finally, one last comment related to dryers: you can install special venting that prevents outside heat/cold from penetrating the vent. I would be sure to select a design that doesn’t cause more lint build-up (which can cause your dryer to become less efficient or even cause fires). Here’s a link to one of the many products that claim to do this: http://www.rewci.com/hedrveclsy.html
Good luck with your remodel!
Hi Joe, this is Bryce
hope all is well, we have no questions at this point but I am wearing the arm band!
love
Bryce
Nice website!!