Yep, we’ve considered a green roof – and it’s something we may still end up doing. However, at this point it’ll all boil down to costs. The roof itself will be constructed to support a green system (should we want to do it later), but initially we’re going to go with the cheapest covering. If the gravel proves to be more expensive (or at least close), we’ll seriously evaluate the green option.

Habitat will definitely be contacted when we demo the house… but I didn’t expect they’d actually take much. I assume everything that’s not bolted down will be removed, but that still leaves a lot of stuff. Regardless, I’ll gladly give it all away if someone will come and get it

I don’t read GOOD – at least I didn’t before. It’s officially bookmarked.

Good quality pieces of the house you can donate to Habitat for Humanity http://www.torontohabitat.on.ca/web/ShowDonation.aspx?DonationID=32

They’ll even come pick it up for free I believe, and give you a charitable donation receipt.

There is also a local company that for the life of me I can’t remember the name of who will take your brick and wood and use it again.

I’m sure you’re too far along for this, but instead of concrete consider rammed earth. It tests stronger than concrete, is a natural insulator, and doesn’t have the massive footprint that comes from making the cement.

If you read GOOD magazine, there is an interesting article about LEED this month. It’s up for renewal and there will be some major changes because of a loophole that allows buildings to get points for things like being non-smoking. Condos have also been registering for the LEED test and advertising as “LEED Registered” which doesn’t mean anything at all, other than letting them mark up the price.

Long comment… Missy and I have spent the last few years immersed in sustainable design, as you go along the process if you need a sounding board you can always bounce things off us!

talk later.