Brad's Page

Brad Staggs
HGTVPro.com and DIYNET.com host
Licensed Contractor

Happy Fall, everyone!

We're all concerned about protecting the environment, right? As the continued focus on green, sustainable products carries us into fall, maybe you're wondering how you can integrate environmentally friendly choices into your home improvement projects.

Homeowners nationwide are educating themselves and becoming more aware of the effects their choices have on the environment. Everyone is beginning to make new choices, more informed choices, within many aspects of their lives. Beyond light bulbs and composting, homeowners like you probably want to know how to make a difference in your corner of the world.

If you haven't seen it yet, check out our brand-new, free online brochure! It offers five DIY projects perfect for adding style and flair to any home without compromising environmental beliefs. Four projects are designed by me, one is from the August 2008 issue of Southern Living magazine, and all five call for using one of the only renewable building products on the market: wood. Here's a quick overview of the projects:

1. Safe Arbor. This charming, easy-to-assemble arbor offers the perfect backdrop for heirloom roses or colorful balloons for a child's birthday party.


2. Sweet Dog Suite. As seen in the 2008 Southern Living Idea House in Taylor, Miss., this super-cool dog house will have the neighborhood canines drooling with envy.


3. Southern Chalet Birdhouse. That recognizable chill in the air means our fine feathered friends will be looking for a place to call home. They deserve only the best.


4. Raised Garden Bed. Everybody wants one of these, so be sure yours is built correctly. And promise you'll share those fantastic tomatoes next summer!


5. Funky Storage Locker. No more bats, racquets, cleats, backpacks or riding boots for you to trip over: store them all in customized style.

As a consumer, the most important thing you can do is buy sustainable. Choose natural building products, those that truly fit the definition of "green." One of my favorite materials to use in any home improvement project is Southern Pine. It's real wood, so it's not just strong and beautiful, it's also recyclable. Southern Pine in the US comes from well-managed and well-maintained forests; forests that are more abundant now than they were a century ago!

Happy building!

Regards,

Brad

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