The Green Living Center

The last days of Green Sacramento

2011-01-28T13:16:00.000-08:00

Green Sacramento will be closing Saturday, February 5, 2011.

Until then we need your help!! We need to sell all of our inventory as well as some office furniture. Everything is on sale for 40-75% off! This maybe your last chance to save locally on the great paints, stains and finishes Green Sacramento is known for.

We are open Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 11-4pm, you can also call us during the rest of the week to make an appointment 916-448-8109

Thanks again for your support over the last 6 years!

Closing the Doors to Green Sacramento

2011-01-13T12:06:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year: It is Bittersweet, But We are Closing Our Doors at Green Sacramento… After almost six years in business, I regret to report that Green Sacramento will close at the end of the month. We made a great run and did our best to survive these tough economic times, but unfortunately will not be able to go any further.

A huge thank you to all of our great customers and friends who have supported us and shared our vision for sustainable and healthy products. Your relationships have made our venture much more than a business but also a community institution.

With the bad, comes the silver lining... SALES! We must sell everything, from our inventory to our displays and furniture. This may be your last opportunity to get healthy, high-quality paints, stains and finishes in our region. All of our inventory will start at 25% off, but supplies are limited and won’t last long. We also have books, sundries and a small selection of flooring in stock that will all start at 50% off so come see what is available.

Call ahead. We will reduce our hours as needed over the next few weeks and inventories will dwindle so please pick up the phone before coming down.

What is Next?

I am truly passionate about health and sustainability and will continue on in green building. For several years now I have realized that our most effective way to move toward sustainability is through energy efficiency. With that as a primary focus, Matthew Piner and I have formed EcoLogic Builders, Inc. We are a full service general contractor integrating health and sustainability into your home or building. Matthew has over 20 years experience as both an architect and general contractor. Not only is he well respected for his extensive work with historic homes, but he also has an affinity for pushing the envelope with innovative designs and technologies. We look forward to working again with many of you in the future as EcoLogic Builders, Inc.

Cheers to all of you and your commitment to your values!

Josh Daniels

Store hours will be reduced so please call to get updated hours and inventory (916)448.8109. Thank You.

Trees Make Sacramento Green in Many Ways

2010-05-28T12:49:00.000-07:00

According to many people I speak with here, Sacramento currently has second highest number of trees per capita. We are only behind Paris France; that is pretty cool! Not only does it make our city more beautiful, but it also keeps us cooler in the summertime, warmer in the winter and it reduces smog in the region. We are fortunate that SMUD has the foresight to see the benefits of providing even more trees to shade our homes and The Sacramento Tree Foundation has the mission to help promote and facilitate the planting of trees, including the SMUD trees, in our region. They have a goal of planting another five million trees in our community. This is an incredibly economical way to reduce the energy consumption of your own home. Get a couple free trees and consulting and over time start seeing the saving in your bills.

To find out more information about getting trees, donating, volunteering or just educating yourself more, visit the Sacramento Tree Foundation’s website at www.sactree.com.

Josh

Congrats to Soil Born Farm for a great Day on the Farm!

2010-05-24T13:36:00.000-07:00

The Green Living Center participated this last weekend at The Day on the Farm event at Soil Born Farm’s American River Ranch. Green Sacramento has been participating since the first event they had and I really must admire how much they have grown! What a beautiful site and great experience it is out there. Soil Born Farm is a non-profit farm and education center focused on local, organic food and food awareness programs to our community. This year the event was in conjunction with the Veggie Run, a 5K and assorted age variation run walk event. So many new people got exposed to this treasure and even though it was a bit chilly and windy the crowds were astounding. Thanks go out as well to the Sacramento Natural Food Co-op who has help sponsor this event since its conception several years ago.

For more information about events and ways to get involved with Soil Born Farm go to their website at www.soilborn.org.

The Emerald City

2010-05-20T15:52:00.000-07:00

For years we have had some great city employees who have been pushing for the city to establish more sustainable practices and guidelines. But most of what we have gotten out of elected officials is rhetoric. Now we have a mayor who is trying to stand up and get all our elected officials to stand behind a green banner for many of the right reasons. We need job growth and the development of a more sustainable, local economy which we can accomplish through business innovation and planning guidelines that promote green practices.

Mayor Kevin Johnson kicked off his Green Initiative this week to a packed house and a visit from the Governor and his wife. After more than six years in the green building industry it was such a relief for me to see all of the people already engaged from our community and strong support from the top reaches of our local and state government. Mayor Johnson seems to have a good approach to address this initiative. His plan is not to reinvent the wheel or to detract from the great foundation of work that others have already done, but rather to identify and support what already exists and help identify and address ways to fill in the gaps.

I plan to support and attend all of the monthly meetings that will be hosted by the mayor through the end of this year. It will connect us directly to the mayor, city council, city and county staffs and so many of the other businesses and organizations that are already working hard to build our economy. With organization and support like that we really do have a chance for a green renaissance!

If you’d like to learn more visit the mayor’s website at www.teamkj.org.

Josh Daniels
Green Sacramento

Trinity Glass Products

2010-04-14T16:00:00.000-07:00

Handmade in Seattle, Washington and inspired by the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, Trinity Glass Products present an exceptional composite surface material that’s perfect for contemporary or traditional design aesthetics.

Offering the polished look of granite with earthy, muted colors and small particulates, Trinity satisfies the desire for a natural stone appearance without the negative environmental impacts. Trinity Glass Products are made with 70% recycled glass and low carbon cement sourced from the local Seattle community.

Trinity Glass Products come in six colors and one size. Please visit Green Sacramento for samples and pricing.

Upcoming Events @ The Green Living Center

2010-03-22T17:41:00.000-07:00

We've started teaching classes here at the GLC in our Education and Events Facility. We will be doing classes both for the industry and for the public. We also rent out the space for meeting, events and parties, so stop by and check it out. Please contact Green Sacramento at 916.448.8109 for more information.

Classes for the Industry

March 29: LEED Green Associate (GA) Exam Prep Course - The one day course will give you a complete understanding of green building principles, while our proven study methods and comprehensive study package will give you everything you need to pass the LEED GA exam the first time.
March 30 & 31: LEED® AP Building Design and Construction - The LEED® AP Building Design and Construction (LEED AP BD+C) accreditation is the internationally recognized mark of professionals who are experts in developing high-performance green buildings. LEED BD+C focuses on LEED systems for New Construction, Core and Shell, and Schools. EIA’s two day workshop and comprehensive study package gives you everything you need to pass the LEED AP BD+C exam the first time.

The Green Living Center - Spring Saturday Series
All classes in this series are $25 each with discounts when signing up for more than one class.

Green Remodelling - Saturday, April 10th from 10am to 12pm – This class will cover some basic concepts in green building and remodelling, including materials options, energy efficiency considerations and construction practices and methods. Learn what to look for when choosing contractors as well. This class will be taught by the team at Green Sacramento and Green Sacramento Construction Services.
Energy Efficiency Programs and Rebates in the Sacramento Area – Saturday, April 17th from 10am to 12pm – Learn about the opportunities in the Sacramento area to make your home more energy efficient and identify how to get that work subsidised by the utilities and government agencies. The instructor for this class is Tommy Young from E3/Norcal
Landscape Tune-ups for Water Efficiency – Saturday, April 24th from 10am to 12pm – Warm weather has arrived, and so have water meters for many Sacramento homeowners. This course will provide an overview of strategies for reducing landscape water use, including design, plant selection, irrigation tune-ups and new technologies. Save water and money! This information-packed 2-hour class will be presented by Ed Chandler, founder and Principal Landscape Architect of Loftgardens | Landscape Architecture.
Greening Parties, Events and Wedding – Saturday, May 1st from 10am to 12pm – Do you want to take some steps to make your next event less wasteful and more environmentally conscious without compromising the style and elegance that you desire? What should you look for in a caterer to ensure that you are getting healthier foods without compromising on taste and appearance? Melissa Smith owns and operates Shades of Green Event Services and operates the Education and Events Facility at the Green Living Center.

Consider using the GLC Education and Events Facility for Your Next Event
The Green Living Center is the great location and facility for that special party or meeting. Located in the hub of mid-town Sacramento, the facility provides a relaxing and private setting perfect for community events, small weddings, social events, seminars, workshops, and business meetings. When the facility is not being used for classes, it is available for private rental. The Center is designed in a large, open layout with ample skylights for stunning natural daylight. The expansive brick walls are adorn with rotating installations provided by the 20th Street Art Gallery.

For more information please contact Green Sacramento at 916.448.8109.

Residential green building remodeling & deconstruction -- some brief notes…

2010-03-16T16:25:00.000-07:00

Remodel vs. build new – consider the green alternative – the “greenest building” is one that is already there. Beyond remodeling for functionality, added space or modernization – remodeling creates an opportunity to make a building more durable, energy and water efficient and healthier for inhabitants.

Some of these opportunities are:

Upgrade insulation, add radiant barrier (roof especially). Consider spray foam.
Improve structural deficiencies exposed during remodel.
Weatherstripping and air sealing.
Upgrade wiring, add better, more efficient fixtures, switches, outlets.
Plumbing – renew piping pipe insulation and allow water recirc., install better, more efficient fixtures.
Duct testing and sealing. Upgrade/improve equipment efficiency.
Removal or remediation of Toxics - Lead, Asbestos, Fiberglass, etc.
Revealing areas for repair of leaks and sources of moisture for fungus (dry rot), termites and mold as well as rodent and vermin entry areas.
Improve ventilation, natural lighting with skylights, new windows.
Add radiant heating and cooling systems (non-forced air alternatives).
Select Low and No VOC and Formaldehyde/off-gassing finish materials.
Pre-wire and pipe for future solar electric and solar hot water (or install if budget allows).
Install whole house fan/ventilation and balanced attic venting for night-time cooling.
Install ventilation for better moisture control in bathrooms (use timers) and kitchens.

One of the old accepted standards of remodeling has been the necessity for and presence of a dumpster. One of the signs that your neighborhood was being improved was the number of dumpsters out on the street or in the driveway.

As the new values of green building take hold and landfill costs continue to climb, “Out with the Old and in with the New” has to be rethought. Here is a list of issues to be introduced and discussed:

Value of reusing materials - old growth lumber no longer available except by salvage, antique fixtures – light fixtures, antique plumbing, antique hardware, “wavy glass” etc. – these are typical, high value items.
Recycling materials by segregation– separation of lath and plaster for example so each can be handled and disposed or repurposed.
Recycling steel, wiring, piping, cardboard, concrete, plastics, aluminum, drywall, roofing, framing, etc.…
Techniques of salvage and deconstruction – accessing, break paint bond, incremental prying, nail removal, tape broken or split parts together (wood can be glued and made “good as new”), paint stripping, reuse and refinishing.
Dealing with toxics – lead, asbestos, mold.

Planning - Pre-deconstruction evaluation.

Prior to doing any demolition or deconstruction, take an inventory of materials that can be re-used or recycled. Here are some things to consider for wood salvage:

Reuse of materials for their function – eg. reuse a door as a door, a framing member for framing, siding used for siding..
Reuse or “upcycling” of material for other use – “cannibalize” a door for it’s finish material, old growth framing becomes finish lumber, etc.
“Pre-sell” items for salvage – do a “pick and pull” for certain items. Liability concerns.
Plan for separation, sorting and storage.
Plan for re-use, recycle or resale.

Some “dumpster wood”, coated with lead paint – when stripped, solid heart redwood, 13” wide x 2” thick. Turned into a garden bench and a countertop.

Links:

http://thereusepeople.org/Sacramento_Store

http://www.treehugger.com

http://www.shannonquimby.com/rex/

http://your.kingcounty.gov

Other resources:

Paint stripping

Window rehab

Accoya wood

List of Northern Calif. Salvaged wood and material resources

Green Sacramento Celebrates 5 Years Saturday, March 13, 12-5pm 10% off all purchases

2010-03-09T17:09:00.000-08:00

We opened our doors on March 15, 2005 at our original location on Fulton Avenue. Owning a ‘green’ business at that point was still very radical. But we have endured through our early years on the ‘fringe’ and through an economic downturn that has seen many in the building industry falter. We have endured because we have a commitment to providing our customers with great service and high quality products that are also healthy and sustainably produced. We have been in our new space, the Green Living Center now for five months with five other businesses focused on different aspect of green building and will be celebrating the opening of this new center as well.

So please come and celebrate with us. Along with good food and drinks we will have all of the other business owners here to advise customers on their projects in architecture, design, landscape architecture, green building and energy efficiency. Bring in your drawings, ideas and concepts and speak to our professionals. Green Sacramento will also give 10% off any purchases placed on or before that day. View our Events and Education Facility that we are getting ready to open and enjoy the company of a growing green community. Also stick around that evening for 2nd Saturday. We have partnered with 20th Street Art Gallery and will be featuring the art of Bernie Weston.

We truly hope to see you here!

New Education and Events Facility at The Green Living Center

2010-03-09T17:08:00.000-08:00

Providing more educational opportunities around various topic of sustainability and green lifestyles has been a goal of ours from the beginning. We now have both the facility and the resources to do this now. We will focus on both classes for industry professionals and for the public. For the professionals we have begun by teaming up with the Environmental Institute of America who has training courses for LEED certification and for finding and securing stimulus money for businesses. These courses will be one to three days depending upon the class. EIA has developed a strong curriculum and has a very professional and well educated teaching staff.

Our first classes will be:
· March 29 LEED GA
· March 30 - 31 LEED AP BD+C (Building Design and Construction)
Find more information online at , http://www.eiofa.com/ or call us at 916.448.8109

Melissa Smith of Shades of Green Event Services has also signed on as our events coordinator and will start to put together classes and events for the public as well. Some of our programs will include hands on classes in historic home window repair and design charettes for developing out door living spaces. We will also host classes on green building concepts and practices that will help you feel more confident and get your building projects focused and organized. What types of classes and events would you like to see? We really want to know.

Soles 4 Souls

2010-03-09T17:05:00.000-08:00

In partnership with the 20th Street Art Gallery, The Green Living Center is collecting new shoes for those in need. There are over 300 million children around the world who are without shoes, that’s about the population of the United States! The shoes that are collected from this project will go to children in the Greater Sacramento area. We are specifically hoping to collect shoes in children’s sizes 2-6. Donations will be made to Soles 4 Souls a non profit that distributes shoes to children all over the world. We are hoping to collect 50 pairs of shoes by March 13, 2010 in honor of Green Sacramento’s 5th Anniversary, the grand opening of The Green Living Center, and Second Saturday! Please drop off any donations to 911 or 919 20th Street Sacramento, CA 95811

Gifts From the Heart

2010-03-02T16:46:00.000-08:00

Wooley Wood Works is a family owned business located in Sonoma County, CA. They specialize in crafting custom handmade Children’s furniture that is high quality and safe.

The company was founded when the Wooleys first became Grandparents. They wanted to create a treasure for their grandchild to cherish forever. So naturally safety was a huge consideration. Precautions you can expect from a Wooley creation includes the use of non toxic finishes, including products that can be found at Green Sacramento (Vermont Natural Coatings and OSMO), non-toxic waterproof glue (Titebond III), rounded corners, sanded surfaces, non-skid pads on table legs and plastic glides on chairs, to prevent injury or damage.

Customization of a Wooley Wood Works item includes the ability to choose wood type, stain or paint color, personalized artwork or lettering (via Woodburning) and cut-outs.

High quality is ensured by not only a lifetime of experience and joy in wood working, but meticulous inspection and a satisfaction guarantee.
Please visit their website for more information: http://wooleywoodworks.com/index.html

Windfall Lumber

2010-02-23T10:42:00.000-08:00

Beautiful, Durable, Simple, Sustainable, Unique… all are qualities desired in a countertop.

Windfall Wooden Countertops possess all these traits and more. Made in Tumwater, WA from sustainably harvested Northwest hardwoods and reclaimed exotic timber, Windfall Lumber provides an unparalleled butcher-block countertop.

Every countertop produced by Windfall Lumber has a story. For instance the African Hardwood Blend is FSC Certified Recycled and it comes from used pallets made in West Africa for use in the United States. The Western Black Walnut is salvaged wood from Northwest Orchards.

Many of the wood species come in either side grain or end grain, giving the same species a completely different look. These countertops maybe stained, finished and refinished with OSMO natural wood finishing products allowing for a greater range of customization for your project. OSMO products are also available at Green Sacramento.

Please visit Green Sacramento for samples and pricing.

Squak Mountain Stone

2010-02-08T18:04:00.000-08:00

Squak Mountain Stone is back at Green Sacramento.

Warm to the touch and rustic in appearance, Squak Mountain Stone is a truly unique countertop experience. Squak Mountain Stone is a lightweight countertop that resembles limestone in its "natural" color variation and texture, but is hand-cast in Seattle, WA.

Armed with a new formula, Squak Mountain Stone is now made with over 50% recycled paper and glass, as well as low carbon cement. All of the materials used in creating a slab of Squak Mountain Stone are sourced from the local Seattle community.

With Squak Mountain Stone you get all of the benefits of a beautiful stone countertop but with added peace of mind. Squak Mountain Stone comes in five colors and two sizes. Please visit Green Sacramento for samples and pricing.

Eco by Cosentino

2010-02-03T08:43:00.000-08:00

Want a countertop that contributes toward LEED points, is Cradle to Cradle certified, and Greenguard certified? Look no further, Eco by Cosentino may be the answer for you.

Eco by Cosentino is a virtually non porous countertop material that is stain, scratch and scorch resistant. Made with 75% recycled content, Eco by Cosentino includes:
· Porcelain from used china, tiles, bathroom and kitchen fixtures, and decorative pieces
· Mirror from homes, commercial buildings, factories
· Glass from vehicle windshields, windows, bottles, and from consumer recycling programs
· Stone scraps left over from other solid surfacing projects and industrial processes
· Crystallized ash from industrial furnace residuals

The resin used to bind the materials of Eco by Cosentino is partially produced from corn oil. During the manufacturing process of Eco by Cosentino 94% of water used is cleaned and reused, and 99% of VOCs produced are purified at the factory. The company also participates in quarry restoration programs.

Eco by Cosentino is available in ten colors and has a 5 year limited warranty. Please visit Green Sacramento for samples and pricing and take advantage a 10% discount through the end of February on all of our pre-made slabs.

Josh
Green Sacramento
@ The Green Living Center
919 20th Street in Midtown

Rainy Days

2010-01-21T10:28:00.000-08:00

Rainy days are perfect for musing about home improvement projects. Sitting by the window with a strong cup of tea and a notepad, I've begun sketching out my plans for spring improvements. New screening shrubs along the west side, a deciduous shade tree strategically located for future shade, and an expanded kitchen garden. Before too long I'll be getting seeds started using one of those handy plastic kits with the tray and clear cover, available at most local hardware stores. My neighbor stopped by yesterday- the rain has reminded her that she could use a drainage system in her yard, and wanted to discuss a design contract.

Glancing over my shoulder, my fiancee reminds me that there are plenty of things we could work on inside the house, well before the ground begins to dry out. New low-VOC paint for the back bedroom, cork flooring in the office, and of course the new sustainable kitchen cabinets she's been wanting. She even has a book of color swatches that she borrowed from Green Sacramento. After discussing for a few minutes we decide to take care of the painting and the floor now, and wait until the spring for the cabinets since we can start cooking more on the barbecue while the cabinets are being installed.

She joins me for another cup of tea, and we stand at the window looking out at the rain. I'm looking forward to this year- new beginnings and finally taking care of projects we've been putting off for a while. Here's to a rainy day, and plans for the future.

-Ed Chandler is the owner of Loftgardens Landscape Architecture, co-located in the Green Living Center, 919 20th Street in Midtown Sacramento.

Decade Past/Future of Green Building

2010-01-06T17:39:00.000-08:00

Green Sacramento opened five years ago when green building was still a fringe movement. There were a handful of green building stores around the country at that time focused in cities like Seattle, Portland, Boulder, Austin and San Rafael, all politically progressive hotbeds. I would go to events and many people in the Sacramento area thought that we were crazy for opening our store. A few people got the idea, but they were definitely the minority. Then Al Gore came out with his movie An Inconvenient Truth and everything changed, not radically, but there was definitely a shift in the dialogue. The green or sustainability conversation changed from why to why not. Even if people didn’t agree with the concepts of climate change they began to think that it wouldn’t hurt to try to reduce our consumption of materials and energy.

Green Sacramento and the green movement quickly went from fringe to fashionable with a trend that I don’t see going away any time soon. Concepts of sustainability and conservation are going to continue to grow. The economic and social arguments have become more persuasive. Green is a great long-term investment that continues to give back. From the perspective of innovation and job growth they sky is the limit as long as we have leadership that sees that potential and helps facilitate the social and economic changes that are required to foster that development. The Obama administration is currently showing that foresight and leadership by putting more investment and incentive in green building and other green tech industries. In the next year I am confident that we will see very strong incentives from Federal, state and local governments to make our homes more energy efficient and green.

So these last several years have been about creating a buzz and finding some direction. In the next ten years I am predicting that we will see many of those plans begin coming to fruition creating a much strong and greener economy. I really hope my predictions come through… and I hope the Green Sacramento and the other members of The Green Living Center can help facilitate that growth in our neighborhood and region.

Cheers!

Josh Daniels

Green Sacramento

We’re Number 1!

2009-12-28T13:09:00.000-08:00

Why Sacramento Looks Like The Place To Be For Green Jobs.

2 recent reports in the December 9th edition of the Sacramento Business Journal highlight the rise of Green Jobs in an otherwise stagnant economy.
Sacramento leads state in green job growth
http://sacramento.bizjournals.com/sacramento/stories/2009/12/07/daily35.html
Report: Green jobs booming in California
http://sacramento.bizjournals.com/sanfrancisco/stories/2009/12/07/daily33.html?q=sacramento%20green%20jobs

So how do you go about getting one of those “Green Jobs”?
Here’s the E3 NorCal Semi-Complete & Somewhat-Inclusive, Beginners Guide to Green Job Training:

PG&E Training Center:
http://www.pge.com/stocktonclasses/

SMUD Calendar of Classes: (nothing currently posted)
http://gfx5.smud.2424k.net/about/calendar/class.html

CACTUS- Community Alliance for Career Training and Utility Solutions:
http://greencactus.org/temp/index.html

Los Rios Community College GreenForce Initiative:
http://www.losrios.edu/downloads/GreenForce_12-01-09.pdf

Saturn Online Energy Auditor Training:
http://srmi.biz/bpt/

HERS Rater Training:
http://www.sierrabuildingscience.com/

Making your holidays as Green as you want to be...

2009-12-15T16:32:00.000-08:00

However we celebrate and enjoy this time of year, it's good to make an effort to lesson the impact of the season for the environment when and where we can.

Here are a couple of web pages with some ideas -- some that can help save money as well as the earth -- a double win.

Enjoy!

http://www.nrdc.org/thisgreenlife/

http://greenholidaygiftguide.inhabitat.com/

http://earth911.com/blog/2009/11/25/green-holiday-basics/

Matthew Piner
Pinerworks Architecture & Building Group

“Baby, It’s Cold Outside”: The DIY versus the Professional Home Energy Audit

2009-12-07T15:22:00.000-08:00

Snow on the streets of Sacramento?

An afternoon high of 44 degrees and a low in the 20's?

Brrrr......

Winter doesn't even officially start for another 2 weeks but like Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Jordan sing “Baby, it's cold outside.”

Too often our initial instinct is just to set the thermostat a little higher and hope the bill doesn't bankrupt us. But,there are simple things you things you can do to “weatherize” your house and literally stop the money from flowing out. Even small improvements can improve your comfort and lower your bill. What are these small improvements? Air Sealing and Weatherstripping combined with good old fashioned Elbow Grease are at the core of every home energy efficiency makeover.

Think of your house as a jacket. Theoretically; a jacket covers you, it keeps you warm and it keeps you dry. Now imagine that jacket is unzipped or it has a hole in it – every time the wind blows it fills with cold air and you shiver. Common sense tells you to zip it up or patch the hole.... in the energy auditing world we call this “Sealing the Envelope” with the “envelope” being your house. Air Infiltration is the culprit and can account for up to 35% of the heat loss in your home. I won't bore you with the math, but just remember this one fact: FOR EVERY CUBIC FOOT OF AIR THAT ENTERS YOUR HOUSE A CUBIC FOOT OF AIR LEAVES YOUR HOUSE. And the air that is leaving is taking the money you spent to heat it up with it. A typical well-insulated house can still have a complete change of it's ENTIRE volume of air as often as every half-hour because insulation alone is not an air barrier. To extend our envelope analogy- there are two components to aneffective jacket; the windbreaker and the insulation. Your house needs both. (An Example: we tested one old Victorian in Sacramento that had a complete air-change 7 times an hour, which helped to explain the $800 heating bills)

There are many on-line resources available to do-it-yourselfers and I have posted some of my favorite links:

http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=home_improvement.hm_improvement_audits

http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/energy_audits/index.cfm/mytopic=11160

http://www.pge.com/includes/docs/pdfs/shared/saveenergymoney/rebates/weatherization.pdf

When you want to take it to the next level that's where we at E3 NorCal step in. Think of it as putting your house on a treadmill. We bring in $20,000 worth of state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment, hunt down the energy wasters in your home and give you a 20+ page report detailing our findings, making cost effective recommendations and a full payback analysis.

If you have any energy related questions please call us at the Green Living Center, it would be our pleasure to work with you.

Tommy Young
E3 NorCal

2009-10-26T11:23:00.000-07:00

FOR a GREEN HALLOWEEN

Staying green during the holidays may seem like a daunting task but It doesn’t have to be. This Halloween try some of these ideas to lighten your impact:

Costume: Look in your closet for costume ideas you may already have something that would make a great costume for your self or your kids…use an old bed sheet as a toga or a cape. Get creative! Or set up a stitch switch, some of your friends may have some wonderful funky old clothes or costumes for you to use. Rent your costume, this is a great way to reuse a commercial costume over and over with out being the same thing year after year. Try your local thrift store (this could also be a good location to find decorations as well!) When you’re done you can re-donate your costume.

Pumpkins: Purchase your pumpkin from a local pumpkin patch instead of a grocery store. Better yet, if you have the resources grow your own pumpkins! This is a great learning opportunity for young children as well. Use the pumpkin “guts” in a recipe (Soup, Pie, Bread…) and cook up the seeds. This makes great party food! Don’t forget to compost the pumpkin shell after Halloween!

Parties: Send party invites online to save paper…there are plenty of fun E-cards out there to choose from. Serve local and seasonal party food from a local farmers market. There are farmer’s markets all over Sacramento almost every day of the week. Use reusable, recyclable or compostable party utensils and decorations. Black or Orange CFLs and themed LED holiday lights as well as reusable decorations are available online. Use apples, corn on the cob, pumpkins etc can be used as natural decorations.

Trick or Treats: Healthy Trick or Treat treats that you may not have thought of include Honey Sticks, Fruit Leather, Organic Juice Boxes, and Dark Chocolate. Get creative with reusable trick or treat bags. For example a Witch could use a caldron and a Pirate could use a mini treasure chest to collect the goodies. Give out little treasures instead of treats, kids love toys! For more ideas and information go to: http://www.greenhalloween.org/ Have a Happy and Safe Halloween!

Green Sacramento

WE ARE ALL MOVED INTO OUR NEW BUILDING!!!!! 919 H Street Sac 95811

2009-09-29T08:51:00.000-07:00

Green Sacramento has moved to it's new location 919 H Street Sacramento CA 95811 (just 2 blocks down the street)

Green Sacramento moved to midtown just under two years ago with high hopes and great partnerships. But then the economy faltered and the building industry began to fall apart. 2009 has been a very challenging year for us full of trials and tribulations as the building industry in Sacramento continued to worsen and many of our partners began closing up shop. But we have been able to survive and find new partnerships that will make Green Sacramento and the opportunities for green building in Sacramento better than ever.

We moved to a new location at 919 20th Street, less than two blocks from our current location. Moving is very difficult for a retail store and confusing for customers, but this move was necessary for our survival and allows us much better opportunities for prosperity.

With this move to 919 20th Street we are partnering up with several small businesses to create The Green Living Center, a hub for green building in Sacramento. Along with Green Sacramento and Green Sacramento Construction, our partners in the building include PinerWorks Architecture, E3 / Norcal energy efficiency consultants and Claire Blocker Interior Design. Plus we will have more partners joining us in the coming weeks and months. Moving into a building with all these business allows for our customers to find a full range of products and services for creating healthier and more sustainable homes and businesses in one place and at one time. The people in all of these businesses are highly motivated by the social, ethical and sustainability opportunities addressed by green building and Iím honored to be associated with this group.

I want to apologize for the chaos and confusion of moving again, but thank all of our great customers for their understanding and support. So come visit us on October at our new location on 919 20th Street and enjoy 10% discounts on all countertop purchases.

Cheers!

Josh Daniels

EcoTimber Award Winning Wood Floors

2009-08-04T13:04:00.000-07:00

It is always good news when someone in the green movement succeeds; it is particularly good news for us at Green Sacramento when the business in question is one of our suppliers and associates. Lately the flooring company EcoTimber has been recognized by several of the nation’s top authorities on green practices as a premier supplier of environmentally friendly, beautiful and durable floors. In late April, Green Building Pages held their annual Earth Day Awards which recognize the best green building products on the market. EcoTimber ‘Hand-Scraped,’ ‘Exotics’ and ‘Classics’ lines of hardwood flooring received three of the top ten awards. More recently, in early July, the San Francisco Business Journal nominated EcoTimber for a Green Business Award. The journal credits the best green companies in the Bay Area with its Green Business Awards every year. In the end, out of the 200 or more businesses nominated, EcoTimber was one of the two finalists for the category ‘Best Green Product,’ alongside nationally known Method, a green product line marketed by Target. Considering EcoTimber’s relatively small size and humble origins, this is an extraordinary and exciting achievement.

EcoTimber is devoted to forest protection and indoor air quality. They live up to their motto "Healthy Forests. Healthy Homes.” by only working with wood that comes from forests that satisfy the highest standards of sustainable forest management, and by using products that contain no chemicals harmful either to humans or to the environment. Moreover, EcoTimber floors are both long-lasting and extraordinarily beautiful, with rich, natural hues that range from pale bamboo to dark Patagonian Rosewood. Lifetime guarantees can be taken for granted with almost any EcoTimber floor, due to their unusual hardness. Despite these advantages, EcoTimber floors are comparable in price to conventional floors of a similar caliber.

Green Sacramento is proud to be able to work with EcoTimber to help “harness the marketplace to support sustainable forestry and forest conservation worldwide,” beginning right here in our beautiful city of Sacramento.

Green redecorating / remodel on a budget PART2

2009-07-28T14:59:00.001-07:00

The initial stages of a remodel can be daunting for homeowners, decreasing energy consumption is one of the primary goals of green remodeling. This can be achieved in a myriad small ways begun quite simply by fostering environmentally sound habits: turning off appliances and lights, decreasing use of heating or air-conditioning, etc.

Structurally, there are many ways of improving the energy efficiency of the home without putting unnecessary stress on one’s bank account. Sealing cracks and perforations that allow air leakage in ducts and pipes, and adding insulation to the attics, floors or walls are not particularly expensive renovations, yet they yield impressive results.

In one home improvement report, the money saved by the repaired and insulated ducts surpassed the initial cost of the improvements within two years, and continued to save the homeowners money. When one considers the amount of energy spent annually on heating or (as clearly evidenced by our most recent bout of infernal Sacramento heat) air conditioning, it makes sense that maximizing the efficiency of the systems that support these functions would be both profitable and environmentally sound.

There are many other simple ways of increasing the energy efficiency of your home. The implementation of compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) and fans can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of a home and are relatively inexpensive, unlike other commendable –yet impractical—measures such as installing an all-new energy saving appliances or new, insulating windows. While it is true that both of these changes can help reduce energy consumption the overall effect on the energy level of the structure is minute, while the cost is quite high. For the same price, it is possible to make several other, smaller changes to the home, with a much greater affect upon the overall energy consumption, and a gentler effect upon one’s finances.

Green redecorating / remodel on a budget PART1

2009-07-09T17:11:00.000-07:00

There is a time in the life of a house when remodeling, or at least redecorating is absolutely necessary: walls thirsty for paint, tired rooms begging to be rejuvenated. In our difficult economic times few people have the resources for such home improvements. However, it is not impossible to redecorate or remodel on a budget while still upholding green standards.

When preparing to remodel a home in a budget-conscious way, it is important to remember that green renovations increase longevity and lower energy bills. When a room requires rejuvenation but not an actual remodel, the easiest and most effective way of changing the feeling of the space is to paint. The alteration or addition of color on one or more walls vitally changes the experience of the entire room, adding a feeling of cozy warmth or cool, refreshing space; and eco friendly paints are comparatively easy on the wallet (comparable in price to conventional, high quality paints).

To finish off the decoration process, it is important to remember that decorating “green” does not necessarily mean purchasing new, expensive, eco friendly items; green also means reusing and recycling. Making use of the contents of your attic, or visiting thrift- or antique-stores are ways of preventing used goods from ending up in landfills while adding a unique touch to your home.

www.greensacramento.com/sale.html

2009-07-02T10:22:00.000-07:00

Green Sacramento was founded 5 years ago with the idea of providing healthier and more sustainable building materials to the greater Sacramento area community. Over time we recognized another element of sustainability; product longevity through durability, functionality and aesthetics. So when customers come to Green Sacramento they can be assured that we have done our due diligence to ensure that our products meet very high standards in all of those areas and that our staff will understand our customers' needs and concerns. As the founder of Green Sacramento I truly believe that we provide a unique and invaluable service to the people of this area.

But like so many others right now, our business has been affected by the downturn in the economy and we hope friends and supporters can get the word out and help us get through these tough times. If you or any of your friends are in the midst of a project, just starting a remodel or have been putting off an upgrade we encourage you to stop by and visit our showroom for your home improvement needs. Our new sister company, Green Sacramento Builders is also available to provide construction services with a focus on energy efficiency and indoor air quality.

To further encourage both old and new customers to stop by we are having a sale starting right away on our in-stock inventory as follows:

10% off all AFM and Yolo paint and primer current inventory through July 11th

10% off all American Clay products current inventory through July 11th

All mis-tinted paints are available for $5 per quart and $10 per gallon

20% to 30% off other current inventory through the end of July including:
- Wood and concrete stains, finishes and sealants
- Limited quantities of Bamboo, Cork and Marmoleum Click flooring
- Various Sundries ñ Including paint brushes, canvas tarps and lead test kits

Plus we will be providing a discount on all brands and types of flooring through July 18th including cork, bamboo, carpet, Marmoleum and FSC wood as follows:
- 5% off all flooring on orders over 500sf
- 8% off all flooring on orders over 1000sf

Thank you for your support!

Josh Daniels
Owner, Green Sacramento

Making Your House An E-House

2009-05-07T12:12:00.000-07:00

Its not very often we get to see all the energy efficient tools and products put to use in one location. SMUD has designed just that and it is sitting in their first floor "Center" here in the Sacramento office.

Showcasing all the energy saving techniques for building a home efficiently, this interactive, walk through, full scale model is very helpful in understanding the logic behind the uses of various materials and just how there products save energy. The E-House showcases everything from framing to duct work, to whole house fans, and includes an interactive video to explain more tips and provide additional information on home energy efficiency.

Green Sacramento provided SMUD with many of the materials seen in the E-House making them readily available here in Sacramento. Also, because Green Sacramento has recently expanded to include construction and deconstruction services, all modifications seen in the E-House can be not only be purchased through Green Sacramento, but also installed by Green Sacramento Builders.

Green Sacramento Builders Launch Party

2009-05-05T11:06:00.001-07:00

This Second Saturday, Green Sacramento Builders is officially launching and we are celebrating with music and art! Blvd Park will be performing along with two other special guests and local artists will be displaying some of their art on our walls. Please come and enjoy some music and art while helping us welcome GSB to our community.

In the three weeks since GSB was first mentioned here, they have been busy with many projects in the area. From roofing to kitchen remodels, GSB has hit the ground running and is providing the Sacramento area with sustainable materials as well as responsible practices.

So please stop by this Second Saturday and meet the people behind Green Sacramento Builders and enjoy some great music and art. We will be out there beginning at 5 until about 9 so be sure to stop by and check us out!

Zero-VOC Exterior Paint and Primer Sale

2009-04-30T14:19:00.000-07:00

Much attention has been paid to interior paint and its effect on air quality, but it seems the exterior application of paints and stains has been misunderstood. There exists a common confusion among consumers as to the reasoning behind and benefits of going green when it comes to exterior painting. Traditional exterior paints contain chemicals that allow it to withstand the elements. However, because natural paints lack these chemicals, their use is limited to indoor applications. The eco-friendly exterior versions of these natural paints are considered to be green as long as they do not contain heavy metals or toxins. Because the outdoor air dilutes the effects of VOC's does not mean they do not have an impact on both the environment as well as the buildings tenants.

In traditional exterior products the excess amount of VOC's being emitted are reacting with the sunlight to create ground level ozone, which is a major contributor to smog, especially in densely populated areas. The newer Low-VOC and Zero-VOC products reduce the occurrence of this reaction. Outdoor painting projects also may affect indoor air quality if the off-gases of traditional paint make it into the home through open windows, doors, and vents.

Yolo Colorhouse carries a great line of exterior paints that are zero VOC, 100% acrylic for great performance, and 40% volume solids for excellent coverage. Right now through June 30th, purchase 5 gallons of Yolo Colorhouse exterior paint and receive one gallon of exterior primer for free, or purchase 15 gallons of exterior paint and receive one five gallon bucket of outside primer.

Vetrazzo Glass Orgins

2009-04-28T10:42:00.000-07:00

Not only are Vetrazzo countertops beautiful, they are a great use of recycled glass. When looking at some of the glass, it is hard not to imagine where that glass came from, and what it used to be. Thankfully there are some industry standards that can help us find the origin of the glass in your kitchen or bathroom countertop.

Colorless glass, also sometimes called clear glass, is just that, void of color. The most common place to find this glass is in the grocery store, mostly likely bottling some pasta sauce or some peanut butter. The glass with the most shade variation is green glass. Iron, chromium or copper are the metals used to "color" this glass, and the reason why there are so many different shades of this particular color. Wine is the most popular use for green glass because of its ability to keep sunlight and temperature from affecting the contents. Blue glass is a naturally occurring color due to iron impurities found in sand. Originally most popular before the 1920's, it is now used for ink and alcohol bottles. The last color of glass is brown glass, which is also known as "amber" glass. This glass is very similar to green glass, it is manufactured by adding nickel, sulfur and carbon. The most common use of this color glass is beer bottles, because of its ability to keep light out.

A great product, Vetrazzo is a beautiful way to add character to either a kitchen or bathroom, and knowing it is made from recycled materials makes it even more desirable and unique.

The Truth About Cotton, and Why To Go Organic

2009-04-23T15:46:00.000-07:00

Its everywhere and nobody ever seems to think twice about putting it on in the morning, crawling into it at night, or even pulling it out of the medicine bottle; that is, until the introduction of organic cotton. Rather than mentioning what's NOT in organic cotton, it is far scarier to discuss what is in the traditional stuff and how long these chemicals have been hiding.

The conventional method of farming cotton uses many chemicals in many forms, fertilizers, insecticides, herbicides, and defoliants. The use of crop dusters are utilized heavily when farming cotton, in some cases crops are sprayed as many as ten times in one growing season. Whats worse? Five of the top nine pesticides known to case cancer are used in farming cotton, all of which are classified by the EPA as the most dangerous chemicals, type I or II. The unused parts of the cotton plant, the leaves, stems, and short fibers have a concentrated level of pesticide residue and is not allowed to be fed to livestock, so what do they do with it? Lets see, you sleep on a mattress, and sit on a sofa, and clean your ears with cotton swabs, all of which have the supersaturated, pesticide containing cotton.

Organic cotton is farmed on land that has not used pesticides for at least three years and uses beneficial insects to keep pest insects at bay. Given the choice, no chemicals sounds a whole of a heck lot better than known cancer causing carcinogens infiltrating my home. The cotton bedding sold at Green Sacramento is Coyuchi, and is an organic material. Offering more than just traditional sheets, blankets and duvet covers, Coyuchi also offers baby bedding.

Sunflower Board and Kirei

2009-04-21T18:52:00.000-07:00

There are a lot of materials on the market today for home remodels and general construction and many people get lost in all the decisions they are making. However, one thing many homeowners rarely have the option on is Sheetrock, besides the color perhaps, which hopefully is a low VOC brand. There are a few products out there that are more sustainable than Sheetrock, have a completely new look, and can be used for more than just wall board.

Sunflower board is a composite material that utilizes bio-based technology, and is composed of sunflower seeds, which are rapidly renewable. The great thing about sunflower board is its versatility. It has hues of brown, yellow, and black outlines that create a great pattern. It can be stained like wood, cut like wood, and even routed like wood. Its uses go beyond wall board to include table surfaces, cabinetry, furniture, and interior decorative wall accents with the only limitation being kitchen and bathroom countertops.

Another great material is Kirei, made from the Sorghum plant and its leftover stalks after harvesting. These stalks are then heat-pressed with a non-toxic adhesive which creates a very strong, lightweight, multipurpose board. Common uses for Kirei include wall coverings, ceilings, cabinetry, furniture and flooring.

Changing Gears: Green Sacramento Builders

2009-04-16T15:11:00.000-07:00

Green Sacramento has stepped up its efforts to be green, which allows us to become even more responsible for not only the products and chemicals we put into new developments, but also the handling and recycling of materials we are able to reclaim. Green Sacramento Builders offers tenant improvements, renovations, new construction, deconstruction, landscape and interior design. GSB sets itself apart with their expertise in LEED certified building, container structures, green roofs, advanced framing, and renewable energy.

Josh Daniels, the owner of Green Sacramento, has combined his extensive knowledge of green and eco-friendly products with the experienced director of operations, Randy Rosalex, as well as the project management expertise of Ron Conn. Together, Green Sacramento Builders was born out of a need for responsibility and innovation in construction.

The main ambition of GSB is to provide innovative, cost effective structures as well as unique homes while still maintaining a high level of functionality, a concern for the environment and ensuring a healthy space. From small renovation projects to larger, new construction, GSB has the ability to create sound environments conclusive to living a sustainable lifestyle.

Painting A Healthier Home

2009-04-14T10:13:00.000-07:00

It is one of the biggest pollutants in any home, in fact it is the second largest ozone producer, coming in behind automobiles, and its all over your walls. A lot of the buzz surrounding paint right now has to do with VOC's, volatile organic compounds, which cause pollution, but what a lot of people may or not know is many paints with low VOC's may still contain toxins, which also cause pollution within the home. When looking for a paint, simply looking for a low VOC brand is no longer the standard, be sure to check for toxins which could also be lurking.

The benefits of low VOC paints and stains goes beyond health in the home. Many of these products are water based making clean up easy with just soap and water and they are deemed non-hazardous waste, which means their disposal is better for the environment. Low odor during application, no odor once cured, and no off gassing into the home, means the spaces can be occupied comfortably and safely sooner.

We carry both Yolo Colorhouse as well as AFM Safecoat interior and exterior paints, sealants, stains, cleaners, adhesives and coatings, which both meet the highest standards of low toxin, sustainable and non-pollution emitting products. In fact, Safecoat was the recipient of the Scientific Certification Systems' Indoor Air Quality Gold certification which recognizes their achievement of strict indoor air quality objectives in North America.

Green Second Saturday

2009-04-09T14:50:00.000-07:00

April 11th is right around the corner, which means the 'green' edition of Second Saturday's is too! Green Sacramento will have its doors open, ready to invite fellow art walkers in to learn and explore everything Green Sacramento has to offer. Many vendors and businesses are combining this 'green' Second Saturday with Earth Day, so look out for events celebrating both.

Some of the participating art galleries have art focused around a green theme, whether that be green the color, or green the movement. Vox, an artists coalition, is putting on a green show in West Sacramento, where they are currently located. It includes a long list of artists as well as a live band. In addition to the art, Vox will also be hosting an electronics recycling event, where they will be accepting cell phones and laptops. Electronics such as these carry many toxic chemicals, and a majority of them are sitting in a landfill because they were not properly disposed of. All the proceeds from this event will benefit local artists and art programs.

Green Second Saturday shows off just how art and sustainable design can coexist, and even make beautiful, if not amazing design. Its no wonder either, the environment is often an artists best inspiration, displaying a variety of not only color, but also amazing complexity. Make your way over to Green Sacramento for tips on being green and living a sustainable life.

Reducing Your Bills With Home Energy Audits

2009-04-07T10:41:00.000-07:00

Energy efficient appliances and energy efficient lighting are a great way to start an efficient home but if you want to do more or take that next step, its hard to know where to turn to next. With home energy audits, homeowners are allowed the opportunity to discover and pinpoint areas in their homes where energy is leaking out doors and windows and may also show you how to conserve hot water as well as electricity. These audits can be done either professionally or independently by homeowners. Professional home energy audits include room by room investigations of doors, windows and walls, looking for air leaks as well as insulation problems that allow heat loss. Also, many times these audits will include a measurement of the efficiency of heating and cooling systems. By pin pointing the problem areas where air either leaks in or out of the home, homeowners have the opportunity to make changes they know will reduce energy waste and save money on heating and cooling bills during the changing seasons. It is also very common for new homeowners to investigate the energy efficiency when looking to purchase a home and writing these audits into a clause in the contract, making sure the structure, even if new construction , is energy efficient. A great source for more information is the U.S. Department of Energy's "Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy" website. There are tips to conducting your own audit as well as ways to prepare your home for a professional one and what to look for when choosing an auditor.

Celebrate Earth Day!

2009-04-02T13:33:00.000-07:00

Sacramento is bubbling with events for Earth Day and this year it is revolving around a celebration of a more sustainable Sacramento. In addition to the celebration on April 26 at Southside Park, which will include food, activities, and bands, there are many other businesses and attractions offering up a celebration of their own. One of the first Earth Day celebrations this year is taking place on April 4th, and it is at the Sacramento Zoo. Earth Fest is "a party for the planet" with crafts, entertainment, a recycle rummage sale, and of course, zoo exhibits. In the downtown area, at the California EPA Headquarters, there is an art exhibition called "Particulates Matter" on April 22nd. This is being held in conjunction with California's EPA 'Take Your Child to Work Day', so there will be art suited for children as well as adults. With the main focus on health effects of particulate matter (lung cancer and asthma) local artists give their rendition of just what it means to them. Another fun event for those who would like to get a little more involved is happening on April 25th at the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area. PG&E and many other sponsors are hosting a clean up event for such locations as Negro Bar, Granite Bay, Beal's Point, Brown's Ravine, and Willow Creek.

Green Sacramento will be participating in a couple events as well in the area, one of them being the Southside Park celebration, so be sure to stop by and say 'hi'. We also will be participating in an event at Plaza 555 from 11 am to 1 pm with food, drinks and other earth friendly vendors. In fact, Green Sacramento will be celebrating the entire week, starting on April 13 through April 22, Josh Daniels, the owner of Green Sacramento, will be featured on News 10's website discussing everything green. Earth Day celebrates awareness and appreciation for the earth and its resources, so show your consideration and participate in one of the many events put on in Sacramento.

Contact Information for Earth Day Events:
Southside Park: www.sacramentoearthday.net
Sacramento Zoo: www.saczoo.com
"Particulates Matter" Art Exhibition: scottrayrandall.blogspot.com/

Sacramento's Urban Edge

2009-03-31T18:26:00.000-07:00

From the Natomas Gateway Tower to the CalSTRS building in West Sacramento and even Hot Italian, the new pizza and panini bar in downtown, Sacramento has been showing its greener side. Green design is definitely taking over the construction of some of the largest, and most visible buildings in the area and the developers are as excited as ever to offer its tenants the benefits of working in these low toxin, low chemical, sustainable buildings. There has not been a whole lot of buzz about residential homes that have been built, or even renovated utilizing green products, but there definitely is an interest and outcry for these products. Green design is taking over the building industry and Green Sacramento is at the head of the revolution, providing Sacramento with its own urban edge. In fact, Sacramento as a whole is the thirteenth greenest city in the county according to SustainLane’s 2006 list of top sustainable cities. Sacramento's Tree Foundation’s Greenprint initiative is referred to as the most impressive program in the nation. This initiative aims to double the current tree canopy in the urban areas of Sacramento by planting five million new trees which will improve air quality and increase energy conservation. With Sacramento's urban edge growing, Green Sacramento is looking for ways to keep the community involved. Look for our calendar soon with eco- friendly and green events in the downtown areas!

Natual Fiber Floor Coverings

2008-02-25T12:58:00.000-08:00

With an eye towards style and versatility, Green Sacramento is pleased to carry a new line of woven floor coverings, Merida Meridian. Their distinctive natural fiber floor coverings – sisal, jute, wool, paper and abaca - reflect timeless organic patterns and offer a clean, sophisticated look that can match any room decor.

Merida Meridian draws inspiration from the colors, textures and variations in the natural world. For example, long sisal fibers are extracted from the leaves of the agave plant. The fibers are then dyed, which produces colors that are more vibrant and even throughout the product. After dyeing, the fibers are carefully spun to form a tight, rugged yarn and clipped to remove course, hairy ends. The sisal yarn is then woven into a beautiful floor covering. Another popular fiber is Jute. It’s resilient, durable and Jute’s soft, flexible yarns provide a cushiony feel underfoot. Jute’s natural color is in the tan to brown range, but dyes very well and can be woven into fine yarns or heavy cords.

And Merida encourages customers to participate in the design process by customizing the size, shape, color and edge finishing of your rug. There are over 300 different edge finishes available.

Merida Meridian received national attention last September at the West Coast Green Conference in San Francisco. Bay Area architects were drawn to the range of floor covering designs with distinctive weave patters. One of the most popular was the wool and paper Woodstock rug. The combination of wool, a renewable fiber with natural insulating properties, and durable paper yarn created a distinct look that was showcased throughout the conference.

Merida rugs are easy to clean and should be vacuumed regularly to maintain their original beauty. This is essential to remove dirt particles that may be lodged between the natural fibers. To remove stains, a dry extraction carpet cleaner such as Host or Capture is recommended as steam cleaning or wet-shampoo may cause the rug to shrink or pucker.

EcoProcote: Green Building Compliant, Sustainable Coating Solutions

2008-02-12T12:21:00.000-08:00

When looking to stain cement, look no further than EcoProcote. This soy-based stain, called SoyCrete, can be used on concrete, masonry, brick, stucco, fiber cement, rammed earth or adobe. Depending upon the porosity and variation of the substrate, SoyCrete will give an asymmetrical, “natural” look to your floor. To protect the stain, EcoProcote also makes an Acri-Soy Sealer in gloss and satin finishes.

SoyCrete comes in a variety of colors from White to Black Granite and Augusta Green to Sedona Red. One of the interior designers for Green Sacramento, Kari Kotyluk, recently finished a cement floor using SoyCrete, noting that the application process was quite simple and the end result was beautiful.

This low VOC, low odor, quick drying stain covers between 400-600 square feet per gallon and is an excellent, inexpensive and beautiful flooring alternative.

Green Building Materials Make Good Reuse of Blue Jeans

2008-02-04T13:22:00.000-08:00

When you think of denim, you probably imagine a pair of blue jeans—not a durable building material. But rugged denim fibers are being used as a natural alternative for insulation. And with no chemicals or volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) cotton insulation made from recycled blue jeans is a wonderful option for keeping your house warm this winter. Ultra Touch insulation contains over 85% recycled denim and cotton fibers. Best of all, it’s not itchy and anyone can install it. Ultra Touch has an R-value from 13 to 30, depending on the thickness and width of the roll. R-value is the resistance a material has to the flow of heat. The greater the R-value, the higher the resistance. In addition, Ultra Touch is formaldehyde free.

Health Benefits of Green Building Products

2008-01-28T17:10:00.001-08:00

There are many benefits to using green building products. Cork and bamboo are sustainable, easily harvested and are an excellent option for flooring. Recycled glass can be mixed with concrete and used to make countertops. And products that don’t have to be replaced frequently put less of a burden on natural resources and landfills.
But one of the biggest advantages to using green products is the affect they have on your health. Recent studies reveal that buildings with good overall environmental quality can reduce allergies, asthma and even enhance your performance at work.
Josh Daniels, owner of Green Sacramento, is used to seeing people come in who have sensitivities to certain materials.
“I’d say about a quarter of our customers specifically come to our store because they’re looking for something that won’t trigger their allergies or irritate their asthma, for example.”
Fortunately, Green Sacramento has a trio of healthy products to chose from, each offering unique benefits.
Looking to paint a bedroom or finish a hardwood floor? You can choose from a large selection of zero or low VOC paints, stains and sealants. VOC’s are volatile organic compounds and are often harmful to humans, as well as smog producing.
Need a flooring material that’s easy to clean, soft under foot and stylish? Marmoleum is all-natural linoleum flooring made from linseed oil, wood flour, rosin, limestone, and with a jute backing. And due to its smooth surface it helps reduce dust, which means less dust mites. The presence of these mites is one of the major causes of allergy, asthma, and other respiratory disorders.
Finally, if you’re truly looking for a great night of sleep look no further than our mattresses and bedding. We have mattresses made of organic cotton, pure grow wool, (with a combination of organic cotton) and natural inner-spring mattresses. And none of the mattresses are sprayed with nasty fire retardants. They are naturally flame resistant due to the pure grow wool woven into the batting, or stuffing, of the bed.
“The beds are high quality, very durable and are made with healthy materials that not only support better sleep, but allow for better peace of mind,” Daniels noted. “And we’re seeing a lot of interest in our paints and marmoleum right now. People are sprucing up their home and getting ready for the holidays. A new floor and a freshly painted room go a long way in making your house look great.”
For more information on our large selection of paints and sealants, marmoleum flooring and organic beds and bedding (including several samples of each) please visit our beautiful 2,000 square foot showroom at 1837 Fulton Avenue, Sacramento, or call 916.483.4332

2007-08-01T14:40:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,

Welcome to the Green Sacramento blog! Green Sacramento is an eco-friendly building and design company located around the corner from Arden Fair Mall in Sacramento. We sell mostly interior finishes such as cork, bamboo and hardwood flooring. We also carry Marmoleum, which is an all natural linoleum made mostly of linseed oil. We have a large selection of low/zero VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) paints, stains and sealants. Finally, we have an in-house designer who can assist you with custom designed cabinets and countertops. The wood used for the cabinets is FSC Certifed (meaning the Forest Stewardship Council oversees harvesting, production and distribution of the wood). And the countertop material is made from recycled glass, paper and concrete. You have to see everything in person to believe how beautiful and durable our products are. Please visit our web site at www.greensacramento.com or visit our beautiful 2000 square foot showroom at 1837 Fulton Avenue (cross is Alta Arden). Our phone number is 916.483.4332