2015 green home products showcase

By Heather Chandler

We asked industry leaders to share their recommendations for products that Green & Healthy Maine Homes readers should know about this year.


Model of a triple paned window cut so you can the layers

Intus windows

Why we like it

  • High-performance triple-pane glass provides optimum insulation and comfort

  • High solar heat gain and superior airtight seal

  • Tilt-in design [provides a more airtight seal]

  • Wood is harvested sustainably and has no formaldehyde

  • Excellent value for the features provided

Where to get it


Milk Paint®

Three bags of milk paint in red, yellow and blue on red, blue, and yellow shaker style boxes. Piles of color pigment are arranged in front of the paint bags and boxes.

Why we like it

  • Environmentally safe and nontoxic. Zero VOCs, no lead, no chemical preservatives, no fungicides

  • Color is derived from earth pigments such as ochre, umber and iron oxide and do not fade over time Made in Massachusetts

  • Used alone it is best for porous surfaces such as bare wood and raw masonry. However, adding their “Extra-Bond” product (nontoxic, no VOCs) into first coat will help adhesion to most clean, sound non-porous surfaces

Where to get it

Sold at locations throughout Maine. A complete list is available at milkpaint.com/milk-paint-retailers.


a hand adjusts a nest electronic thermostat

Nest programmable thermostat

Why we like it

  • Quickly learns your schedule and preferred temperature, and programs itself to heat and cool most efficiently, saving you money. According to the Nest website, a 1,500 – 2,000 sq. ft. home that heats with oil can expect to save $100-$450 with Nest.

  • Wi-Fi connected so you can adjust temperatures via smart phones, tablets and computers

  • Built-in sensors monitor humidity, temperature, light and movement

  • It can even check the local weather and adjust temperatures accordingly

  • Ability to connect to other Nest or third-party devices such as smoke detectors, security cameras and even your washing machine.

Where to get it

Most local hardware stores carry them.


a hand inserts a LED light bulb into a desk lamp

LED Light Bulbs

Why we like them

  • 83% more efficient than incandescent bulbs

  • Long lasting (average life of a single bulb is 34 years)

  • Effective in all temperatures, and mercury-free

  • More cost-effective than incandescent, halogen, CFLs because they use less electricity and save you money.

Where to get them

Most local hardware stores carry them. Visit efficiencymaine.com to find the best pricing statewide. In most participating locations, the prices of LED bulbs is simply reduced. In others, in-store coupons are available for use at the register.


box of Roxul ComfortBatt insulation

Roxul insulation

Why we like it

  • Made from natural and abundant basalt rock and recycled materials

  • Fire-resistant and won’t release toxic gases or smoke when exposed to high heat

  • Repels water and dries quickly

  • Does not harbor mold or fungal growth

  • Higher R-value and density than fiberglass insulation

  • Great for DIY home projects and available in cost-effective batts

Where to get it

Most home improvement stores carry it.


This article appeared in the Spring 2015 edition of Green & Healthy Maine HOMES. Subscribe today!

Find Maine experts that specialize in healthy, efficient homes in the Green Homes Business Directory.