By Heather Chandler
We asked industry leaders to share their recommendations for products that Green & Healthy Maine Homes readers should know about this year. Here are six of their top choices.
Beachstone Recycled Concrete Products
Why we like it
- 100% of materials are sourced in Maine and all products are manufactured in Maine
- Allagash Brewing gives their broken bottles to Beachstone to be repurposed into sinks and countertops
- Beautiful sink/countertop designs feature Maine seashells and recycled glass
- High content of recycled materials (85% by weight) that would otherwise be landfilled
- Produced with a “zero waste” manufacturing process ensuring no additional waste to the environment
Where to get it
Beachstone Sustainable Products, 160 Presumpscot Street, Portland
Performance Building Supply, 111 Fox St., Portland
Redlon & Johnson, 172-174 St. John St., Portland
Tile from Away, 235 Long Point Rd., Harpswell
Intus windows
Why we like it
- High-performance triple-pane glass provides optimum insulation and comfort
- High solar heat gain and superior airtight seal
- Tilt-in design [provides a more airtight seal]
- Wood is harvested sustainably and has no formaldehyde
- Excellent value for the features provided
Where to get it
EcoCor, 22 Main St. Bldg #6, Searsmont
Performance Building Supply, 111 Fox St., Portland
Milk Paint®
Why we like it
- Environmentally safe and nontoxic. Zero VOCs, no lead, no chemical preservatives, no fungicides
- Color is derived from earth pigments such as ochre, umber and iron oxide and do not fade over time Made in Massachusetts
- Used alone it is best for porous surfaces such as bare wood and raw masonry. However, adding their “Extra-Bond” product (nontoxic, no VOCs) into first coat will help adhesion to most clean, sound non-porous surfaces
Where to get it
Sold at locations throughout Maine. A complete list is available at www.milkpaint.com.
Nest programmable thermostat
Why we like it
- Quickly learns your schedule and preferred temperature, and programs itself to heat and cool most efficiently, saving you money. According to the Nest website, a 1,500 – 2,000 sq. ft. home that heats with oil can expect to save $100-$450 with Nest.
- Wi-Fi connected so you can adjust temperatures via smart phones, tablets and computers
- Built-in sensors monitor humidity, temperature, light and movement
- It can even check the local weather and adjust temperatures accordingly
- Ability to connect to other Nest or third-party devices such as smoke detectors, security cameras and even your washing machine.
Where to get it
Most local hardware stores carry them.
LED light bulbs
Why we like them
- 83% more efficient than incandescent bulbs
- Long lasting (average life of a single bulb is 34 years)
- Effective in all temperatures, and mercury-free
- More cost-effective than incandescent, halogen, CFLs because they use less electricity and save you money.
Where to get them
Most local hardware stores carry them. Visit www.efficiencymaine.com to find the best pricing statewide. In most participating locations, the prices of LED bulbs is simply reduced. In others, in-store coupons are available for use at the register.
Roxul insulation
Why we like it
- Made from natural and abundant basalt rock and recycled materials
- Fire-resistant and won’t release toxic gases or smoke when exposed to high heat
- Repels water and dries quickly
- Does not harbor mold or fungal growth
- Higher R-value and density than fiberglass insulation
- Great for DIY home projects and available in cost-effective batts
Where to get it
Most home improvement stores carry it.