The average square footage of new single family homes is decreasing. We’re moving away from the trend of large houses to something smaller, more efficient, and better performing. And even though the housing market has recently been in severe decline, the demand for “green” or “high-performance” homes is steadily increasing and gaining in value. The biggest question for most of you out there is “how do I get started?” Here are some points to help you out…
There isn’t a single, rigid formula for building a green home. Rather, it requires a sliding-scale approach based on the build site’s opportunities, the client’s budget, the local climate, and a host of other factors. Typically, the greener the home, the more it costs to build; thanks to testing, certification, and better performing building materials (windows, doors, insulation, roofing, HVAC systems, etc.). However, there are two main sets of guidelines for green building designated by the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED Program (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and the NAHB’s National Green Building Program.
Regardless of which green standard we’re following, the principles of green building focus on passive solar orientation, best use of space, an energy efficient envelope, water efficiency, renewable materials, easier maintenance, better indoor air quality, tighter ductworks, and the use of less toxic materials.
This can be accomplished by thinking of your home as a working system. Lighting, plumbing, and heating systems shouldn’t be fighting each other and creating a poor living environment. Instead they should be working harmoniously together in a “high performance” capacity. Some of this can be accomplished by paying attention to the following:
- Ensure your home design has proper roof venting, overhangs, and window sizing
- Be sure to keep humidity from penetrating the exterior walls of your home
- Make use of awnings, porches, and eaves to buffer summer sun
- HVAC systems should have tightly sealed ducts with smooth interior to deliver air
- Spray foam insulation is preferred over fiberglass batts, which doesn’t stop water vapor
- Don’t rely just on “low-e” windows, they are not a substitute for natural shading, solar control, orientation and roof overhang
- Get educated on new fluorescent lighting, they put out very little heat and last much longer than incandescent and halogen lights
- Water heater placement is important. Thoughtful placement such as close to a kitchen or bathroom can negate the need for energy wasting circulating pumps and still ensure quick delivery to the points you need hot water.
- Focus on your interior air quality. Use low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) latex paints on the interior. Install outside venting exhaust fans in all bathrooms, kitchens, and other rooms where there may be a lot of internal moisture generation.
We’re interested in building greener homes and want to do so with you. Contact us to start planning a more efficient home today.
