Larry Byrnes of Environmental Home Improvement is making the “green” by providing eco-friendly construction and remodeling services through his North Hollywood-based contracting firm. The Illinois native majored in chemistry at Southern Illinois University and went on to have a 20-year career in aerospace before being laid off in 1994. That’s when he decided to change gears and go green, getting his contractors license and founding EHI. A self-described “environmentalist” since his college days, Larry said his ecologically-conscious lifestyle and beliefs have translated into a $350,000 a year business as of 2006. “I really enjoy the use of green materials and green concepts,” said Byrnes. “It’s something I’ve been passionate about since college.” Melding his science background with a mechanical aptitude nurtured by his father, Larry applies his skills to meet the needs of both environmentally conscious clients and those just looking to improve their homes’ aesthetics, energy efficiency and comfort. “Most contractors don’t understand green materials,” Byrnes said. EHI focuses on residential remodels and specializes in using construction techniques that do not affect people with standard and chemical allergies; allergies that regular building materials and construction practices can severely aggravate. Many of their projects are kitchen and bathroom remodels, ranging from full eco-upgrades, to more conventional remodels using green construction practices and sustainable materials. Byrnes’ clientele consists of individuals who share his eco-conscious mindset, in addition to people looking primarily to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Making a home beautiful, energy efficient and environmentally friendly is not always involved as one might think. Simple things like properly installed materials and a well maintained heating and cooling systems, can keep a home comfortable, energy efficient and green, notes Byrnes. To keep your home lean and green, Byrnes said that there are often simple things that can be done, that don’t always involve a full on remodel. Byrnes and his company provide energy auditing services, whereby qualified Environmental Home Improvement personnel can evaluate how efficiently or inefficiently a home is consuming energy. EHI’s capabilities include complete room additions, historical period restorations, rebuilds after mold remediation, indoor air quality evaluations, allergies and MCS (Multiple Chemical Sensitivity) improvements, energy audits and upgrades, as well as solar electric and water heating upgrades. Byrnes went on to say that most air conditioning systems leak up to 25 percent of cooled air back into the attic. Stopping the problem, Byrnes said, can save homeowners anywhere from 25 to 50 percent on annual energy bills. Improving a home’s energy efficiency begins with properly maintaining and sealing air conditioning and heating ductwork. Believe it or not, it’s the one thing that good ole’ “duct tape” can’t fix. In fact, Byrnes said it is actually a violation of State building codes to employ the universal fix-all tape to seal heating and cooling systems. “Standard duct tape is illegal. . .it starts to deteriorate over time and the biggest cause of inefficiency is leaking,” stated Byrnes. To minimize allergens, EHI employs HEPA vacuums and specialized air scrubbers to contain dust and debris during the construction process. In addition, they provide testing for lead and asbestos and also offer removal services through a network of certified sub contactors and hazardous materials specialists when required. Some of the most common hazards Byrnes and his company address come in the form of mold and formaldehyde, the latter of which is a chief ingredient in many adhesives and can be found in items like furniture, plywood, particle board and even permanent press clothing. Ironically, Byrnes mentions that certain modern construction practices, which have helped to keep homes more weatherproofed and air tight, actually can be detrimental when it comes to the host of dangerous chemicals found in many new homes, which can drastically affect indoor air quality. Certain aspects of the building codes have changed to meet the increasing awareness of environmental concerns, but those changes are applicable mostly to commercial and not residential construction. “In terms of energy usage, the codes have gotten tighter. In terms of energy efficiency, there are continuous and dramatic changes. In terms of health, indoor air quality, that hasn’t been addressed,” said Byrnes. When asked what changes he felt were needed to improve existing residential codes, Byrnes quipped, “That would be a four hour conversation.” In addressing the challenges he faces as a small business owner, and specifically those of a contractor, Byrnes cited complications associated with scheduling as the one always at the forefront of his mind. “The number one issue is scheduling and timing and having to wear too many hats,” said Byrnes. ” But, he went on, “It’s tough to do all that’s required keeping employees busy there’s a lot of uncertainty.” The keys to his business success, Byrnes said, are, “Having properly trained people and the proper attitude,” in addition to an environmental conscience and expertise in green building requirements and techniques. In looking to the future, Byrnes is excited to be involved in a business which is successful, but more importantly one that is an extension of his own personal ecologically conscious views and lifestyle, “I started the company because it’s something I’ve believed in and wanted to do. It’s a good feeling,” Byrnes said. SPOTLIGHT: Environmental Home Improvement Year Founded: 1994 Revenues in 2005: over $300,000 Revenue in 2006: $350,000 Employees in 2005: 3 Employees in 2006: 4