Green Materials for Sustainable Building Practices

Krantz Green Survey 2011: Consumers and Professionals Still Choose Sustainability

Austin-based Krantz Select Woods, a premiere purveyor of fine lumber, released the results of its 2011 Green Building Materials Survey. Backed by over 100 years in the lumber business, the company brings deep experience to the conversation on sustainable design.

In 2002, Krantz launched Krantz Recovered Woods, specializing in reclaimed antique-quality lumber. The division sources materials from raised sinker logs harvested in the late 1800s and early 1900s, as well as lumber salvaged from pre-1925 buildings. After relocating to Austin in 2009, the company quickly grew into one of the nation’s leading online purveyors of fine recovered woods. This expertise makes its survey results especially relevant to both consumers and professionals.

Recovered woods, reuse and recycle lumber resources preventing the depletion of today’s forest by preventing any new tree harvesting, and helping to reduce landfills. Most Krantz Recovered Woods lumber is sourced within 500 miles to keep transportation emissions to a minimum. Essentially which is yet another green benefit of recovered wood. Krantz Recovered Woods are regularly selected for projects by green designers and builders, like the HomeAway Corporation offices, a LEED Certified building, in ATX.

Reclaimed Wood vs. New Lumber: Why Your Choice Matters. Choosing reclaimed wood reduces carbon emissions, prevents deforestation, minimizes landfill waste, and adds unique historic character to modern design projects.

Green Materials Matter More Than Ever

The 2011 survey shows that green building products remain a priority. In fact, 72% of consumers said sustainable materials are more important now than five years ago. Meanwhile, 57% of building professionals agreed.

These findings confirm what Krantz experiences daily. Customers want environmentally responsible products. They also want quality.

The Economy Slows Projects, Not Values

Even during the recession, the importance of green materials did not fade. However, many projects paused. About one third of consumers delayed at least one green project. In addition, half of professionals put initiatives on hold due to economic conditions.

Still, Krantz emphasizes that demand continues to climb. As Jimmy Krantz, owner of Krantz Select Woods, explained:

“Regardless of economic conditions, green building materials are in high demand not only due to their environmental benefits but also because of their beauty and exceptional quality.”

Why People Choose Green Wood and Other Materials

The survey highlights several reasons for choosing sustainable products:

39% of respondents prioritize environmental impact.
31% focus on aesthetics and design.
30% look for rebates and cost savings.

This breakdown proves that sustainability is not just about the planet. It’s also about style and value.

Looking Ahead: Green Wood is A Continued Trend

The outlook is strong. Roughly 60% of consumers expect sustainable materials to become even more important within five years. Similarly, 57% of professionals anticipate growth.

This optimism shows that green building will remain central to the construction and design industry.

Survey Methodology

Krantz Select Woods surveyed 3,300 participants in November 2011 via email. The respondents came from the company’s customer and contact database. About 60% identified as consumers, while 29% identified as business professionals or architects.

Conclusion: Building Toward a Sustainable Future

The Krantz Green Survey underscores a simple truth: green building materials are here to stay. Despite financial pressures, both consumers and professionals continue to demand products that combine sustainability, aesthetics, and cost savings.

Call to Action

If you are an architect, designer, or homeowner, now is the time to choose sustainable materials. Whether reclaimed wood, solar power, or eco-friendly finishes, every choice matters.

👉 Explore more stories about sustainable innovation on GreenLivingGuy.com and help shape the future of green building today.

Reclaimed wood accent wall adds rich texture and timeless character to a modern space.