Want to build green, but not sure where to start? Here are some ideas to consider when formulating a green building plan. Contact us for more information or an analysis of your project.

Building Orientation

• Orient the home with the long axis facing South
• Consider a design for passive solar
• Provide adequate South facing roof area for current or future solar collection
• Include a plan for landscaping that will enhance shading in the hot summer months

Foundation

• Plan for an insulated foundation system
• Create a drainage and water proofing strategy that will prevent moisture intrusion
• Consider the use of concrete mixed with fly ash or slag
• Plan for a washout area that will not allow contaminated water to flow “downstream”

Framing

• Use advance framing construction
• Use FSC Certified lumber whenever possible
• Consider exterior insulation installation before exterior cladding installation
• Allow for additional insulation in wall cavities
• Have a recycle plan for waste

Roofing

• Install the most local, longest lasting material allowed by budget
• Consider installing materials that can be recycled at the end of their lifespan

Windows

• Install windows that exceed energy requirements for construction
• Place windows in locations for solar heat gain during the cold months
• Place windows in areas of the home to take advantage of natural lighting
• Consider casement windows that have better sealing and more open area when ventilation is desired

Plumbing

• Optimize plumbing design so that water reaches each fixture efficiently
• Insulate all hot water lines
• Reduce flow rates at fixtures
• Use dual flush toilets
• Use on demand water heating
• Consider pre plumbing for gray water segregation

Electrical

• Design the home to use as much natural light as possible
• Design for task lighting in addition to area lighting
• Install dimmers and occupancy sensors
• Design to reduce electrical loading
• Use compact fluorescent bulbs
• Use LED fixtures
• Install the most energy efficient appliances possible

HVAC

• Install high efficiency (90% or better) furnaces
• Install high SEER air conditioners
• Size the HVAC system to reflect the actual needs of the home. If the home is very efficient, a smaller that normal HVAC system is needed
• Use mechanical ventilation to provide fresh air to the building
• Keep ducting and equipment in an insulated space
• Seal ducts with mastic
• Stabilize air pressure in the building
• Test installed ducts

Decking

• Install composite decking with recycled content

Solar

• Consider solar hot water heating
• Consider a solar panel system to generate at least fifty percent of the energy to run the home

Indoor Air Quality

• Eliminate as many synthetic materials from inside the building as possible
• Use No VOC paints and finishes
• Eliminate the use of solvent based products
• Seal products that contain formaldehyde before installation
• Use a heat recovery ventilation unit
• Provide ventilation in each room

Landscaping

• Use native plants for landscaping
• Use Drought tolerant plants
• Use landscaping to help with shading during the hot months
• Consider a storm water collection system for irrigation purposes