How To Cut Down on Electricity in Your Home

If you are concerned about the environment or just want to save money (or both!), you are probably looking for ways to reduce your electricity use.

Here are 20 suggestions and tips for getting those utility bills down and shrinking your carbon footprint:

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The Natural Beauty of Living Roofs

The idea of using living materials for a roof is not a new one. Applying it to modern buildings, however, is relatively new. How is the ancient art of a living roof compatible with modern building methods? And why would anyone choose a living roof for his or her home?

photo credit: Ryan Somma

The Living Roof – What Is It?

A living roof, also known as a green roof, can be constructed on an existing roof or incorporated into a new structure. It can be used on commercial or private buildings. A corrugated, aluminum sheet is placed on the roof, followed by a waterproof membrane. Some builders will then apply a sheet of foam and another waterproof membrane. Drains are incorporated into the design.

Over all of the weatherproofing layers, about 4 inches of soil is placed and various greenery is planted. Many green roof builders like to focus on native plants for their rooftop “garden.”

So what are the main advantages and disadvantages of having a living roof? Read on to find out.

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Whole Grains versus Refined Grains

It seems like “whole grain” is the buzz-phrase these days, with everything from cookies to pasta making healthful claims based on their inclusion of whole grains. What makes a grain “whole?” And is it really that different from refined grain? The answer to the latter question is most definitely yes.

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