Green Specs

Currently, every one is talking about “GREEN CONSTRUCTION”. This is a set of guidelines promulgated by the Construction Industry to state how a majority of the industry, namely the Production Builders, should use methods and materials that will reduce the cost of owning and maintaining a home

Although it sounds like a new and creative idea, TRUE (Design & Build) CUSTOM BUILDERS have been doing this for years. We are not saying we are completely “GREEN”; but, we can say we are “CHARTREUSE” (Light Green). Building Green means using quality products and methods when a home is designed. It means using “Common Sense” in selecting our product and how they are installed, and not trying to save construction costs to the detriment of the purchaser.

Below are some of the recommendations for being “GREEN”, and what we incorporate in all of our home that comply.

RECOMMENDED	WE USE
EFFECTIVE INSULATION	R-13 in walls, R-38 in ceilings, R-19 in floors. We “Weather-Seal” all homes by insulating all openings in the exterior walls,i.e., windows, doors and corners; plus, any penetrations made by utilities on interior and exterior walls.
HIGH PERFORMANCE WINDOWS	We have always used dual glazed windows. Now we have switched to ones with “Low-E” Glass. These keep out UV Rays (ultra violet), thus keeping your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter; thus reducing fuel uses.
SEALED HEATING & COOLING DUCTS	Our HVAC contractor tapes and cements around all ductwork joints, and insulates the ducts in unheated space (attics). All ducts are sized for cooling because it is harder to move cool air; when this is done, warm air automatically moves easily.
EFFICIENT HEATING & COOLING EQUIPMENT	When we use Heat Pumps for Heating or Cooling, or in conjunction with a gas or oil furnace, they are rated - SEER-13. The gas furnace used is a 90+ High Efficiency unit. Again they are sized for cooled air.
	There are Optional Methods that can be installed, and will be done at the selection of the Purchaser. They are Solar and Geothermal. Costs on this can be obtained.
LIGHTING AND APPLIANCES:	All appliances are rated by the manufacturer for low energy use and are usually requested when selecting materials.
HOT WATER HEATERS	In lieu of the standard Tank-Type hot water heater, we have available the Tank less type which is an energy-saving unit. It does not have to preheat the water, thus saving on fuel use; but, gives hot water the instant the faucet is turned on. Each unit is sized for the size of the home to be built.
LIGHTING FIXTURES AND BULBS	Selection of low-energy fixtures, namely florescent, in high use areas will afford a savings. Also, the use of special light bulbs will effect a savings.
THIRD PARTY INSPECTIONS	The large builders employ an independent company to be sure they are complying with the standards established by the Industry. We do not. We always have an inspection with the Purchaser before the drywall is to be installed. At that time they can inspect by themselves or with their inspector to see if all of the “Green” items that have been purchased are incorporated as stated.