Cari Potter
Realtor
Ecobroker
Coldwell Banker Honig-Bell
Lockport
The number of green products being thrown at consumers today is staggering and it’s important for consumers to keep in mind that the word “green” can be loosely associated with just about anything – with both good and not-so-good intentions. That being said, the most interesting green product I’ve come across recently is using recycled denim as insulation! Ultra Touch Recycled Denim Insulation uses manufacturer’s scraps treated with a natural fire retardant. It’s 100 percent recyclable, VOC-free and formaldehyde-free.
David Knight
Realtor
EcoBroker
Prudential Premier Realty, LLC
Oak Park
A green product which really stands out to me is Eco-Shake, a recycled roofing material. Eco-Shake is an innovative shake roofing material made of 100 percent recycled vinyl and cellulose fiber. Available in a variety of colors and suitable for any climate, Eco-Shake contains UV inhibitors, fire-retardants and colorant. It’s competitively priced, and can be installed by any roofing professional. It’s also backed by a 50-year transferable warranty. I highly recommend Green Home Experts in Oak Park as a retailer for Eco-Shake.
Donald G. Weiland
Realtor
EcoBroker
Re/Max Professionals West
Plainfield
The geothermal heating and cooling system in the green home by St. Thomas at the 2008 Cavalcade of Homes. The home is the first in Illinois and only the third in the U.S. to obtain the Gold Level rating. The heart and soul of the home is the energy-efficient geothermal system, which uses the Earth’s energy to heat and cool. Third-party verifiers confirmed a 65 percent to 70 percent savings in home energy costs. The utility savings are further enhanced because the system captures the hot water — a natural by-product of the system — for all hot water needs in the home.
Linda Morton
Realtor
EcoBroker
Baird & Warner
Lincoln Park
I find the photovoltaic (PV) roof tiles are innovative as a way to conduct electricity from the sun. Each slate tile has wiring in place to conduct electricity, and these tiles can be placed on sections of the roof that are exposed to the most sunlight throughout the day. They are discreet in appearance, so they’re barely noticeable while working for you.