Most money saving ideas?

We have decided to gut and rebuild. I am talking foundation up. What are some of the best ideas for conservation of the almighty dollar. I don't mean the inital layout but this will probably be our final home (unless DH can convince me to move upstate). Things like solar powered radiant heat so we use limited other fuels, etc. Of course it can't be something that costs a fortune but of course we would weigh the cost/return over an extended period of time.

Ok, suggest away

Re: Most money saving ideas?

A lot of things cost $$ up front, but save money in the long run. We are getting solar electric. $$$ up front, but after 10-12 years, it's nothing but huge savings after that. Solar mass inside the house (cement walls, or cement floor) on the south side of the house to collect solar heat during the day, and radiate it at night will help. Xerascaping is using plants that use very little water, so you don't spend $$ watering your yard. Rain cisterns to collect rainwater to water the yard. Windows in key areas to minimize lights during the day. I've arranged some of the windows to hopefully eliminate the need for lights in the stairwell during the day.


http://suffolkrestore.com/home
ReStore, in Ronkonkoma, is run by Habitat for Humanity, and they have new and used building supplies for really cheap. I plan on picking up some items from them. Definitely worth a look, just to see what types of stuff they have. They are at the Ocean Ave/Lakeland Ave merge, just north of Islip Airport.