If you have any exposure to the world today odds are you have heard of the “green” movement. This is due in part to the threat of global warming as well as disappearing sources of traditional building materials.

Many new homes are being built to stricter standards meant to reduce their impact upon the environment. Some of these standards include using environmentally friendly insulation, formaldehyde-free cabinetry, and solar powered hot water heaters.

There is one major factor impacting both professional and novice remodelers today. This factor is how to know what must be done to make the remodeled house more environmentally sound.

Unfortunately many people have no idea where to start and thus miss out on quite a few opportunities. Before you begin Anchor Remodeling your older home however you should know some of the potential issues you might face.

Perhaps one of the most dangerous issues you might face is the presence of lead based paint. If you are unsure as to whether or not the paint in your older home is lead based then you should have it tested. In many areas there are kits available for home use.

21 Ways to Save On Your Remodel - This Old House

If there are no testing kits available then you might have to consult an outside painting contractor. Lead-based paint was used for many years. It was finally banned in 1978 after finding out the health issues linked to its use.

If you find that the paint used in your home’s construction is indeed lead-based then you must take protective steps. DO NOT remove it on your own! Keep it intact so that the lead is not released into the air. Contrary to popular belief lead is most dangerous due to the ease in which it is inhaled.

Another major issue facing many older homes is the presence of asbestos. Asbestos was extremely popular due to its fire resistant and insulating properties. Used from the 1950’s into the 1970’s it was finally discovered that asbestos was linked to certain specific cancers.

If your home is more than 30 years old it would be extremely beneficial to consult an expert. Asbestos removal can be very dangerous and should only be handled by state certified removal contractors. It is possible that your siding, flooring and even your roofing materials could contain asbestos in very old homes.

Having to deal with these issues may seem like a con rather than a pro. The truth is that by removing these dangerous materials you are taking a huge step toward remodeling your home to be more environmentally sound.

If you are looking for a major good side to remodeling your home in a green manner then you should look inwards. One of the most important opportunities is the chance to reclaim a good deal of wood when removing existing walls.

Many older homes were built using actual 2×4 studs which can easily removed and kept for other projects. While you might not want to reuse them as studs for building new walls in your home it may be possible to use them for other projects. You may also find contractors willing to buy these old studs from you.