Factory-Built Homes Provide a Green Alternative


OKEMOS, MI--(Marketwire - December 17, 2007) - Looking for green options in home ownership? Manufactured and modular homes have an eco-friendly advantage over site-built homes from the moment construction begins. Being factory built, it's easier to control the amounts of waste created and recycled throughout the homebuilding process. Building materials are precut with factory-built homes, significantly reducing waste by up to 70 percent.

Manufactured or modular homes with the Energy Star certification allow for even more efficiency, as well as savings. American homes use approximately 25 percent of the energy in the United States. Homes built featuring products with the Energy Star label use approximately 35 percent less energy than a typical new home, and prevent 4,500 pounds of greenhouse gas emissions each year. These homes have effective insulation, high performance windows, upgraded heating and air conditioning systems, tight duct systems and upgraded water heating equipment. Appliances in a new manufactured or modular home are most likely Energy Star certified as well.

Seventy percent of all manufactured housing factories have been qualified to build homes earning the Energy Star certification. Michigan Manufactured Housing Association member Palm Harbor Homes has made strides to save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the construction of their homes. As a result, the manufacturer has been awarded the title "2007 Energy Star Partner of the Year" by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Palm Harbor Homes has added several features to their homes to increase overall efficiency, including programmable thermostats that match activity in the home (and save up to 15 percent on energy bills) and mini or vertical blinds that control energy entering your home.

A growing portion of the population places a higher value on homes that are energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. Building homes under these guidelines is not only a smart investment, but you will also see savings in your utility bills, and a likely increase in your home's value.

For more information about manufactured housing, call 800.551.1315, search the web at www.michhome.org, or contact the Michigan Manufactured Housing Association, 2222 Association Drive, Okemos, MI 48864-5978; 517.349.3300.

Contact Information: Contact: Rachael Biermann Agency: All Seasons Communications Phone: 586.752.6381