Green Building

Green Building is environmentally responsible building; it is also called High-Performance Homes.

Modular Manufacturing by its very nature is GREEN by recycling materials, reducing material waste and having a low environmental impact on the job site.

There is not a rigid formula for building green; it is more built on the client’s budget, the local climate and a host of other factors. The greener the home, the more it costs… 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.

Energy Efficiency is key, as most home in America today perform as if a window has been left open year round. You can change this by opting for increased insulation in the homes you build which will save you (as a client) as much as 50% on heating costs and eliminate the need for air conditioning in some latitudes. You will also have to upgrade your HVAC systems and pay close attention to sealing. Ductwork and blower door testing is routine in green building.

Orienting the home to benefit from passive solar gain can save you up to 40% on heating and cooling costs. Situating the house on a north-south axis is the most energy efficient. To achieve this in a subdivision, lots should be laid out from East to West as much as possible. With proper orientation, air conditioning costs can be nearly cut in half.

For a lighting and electrical tip, when possible avoid recessed can lights because even the so-called “air tight” ones can puncture the thermal envelope of the building.

Reduce square footage and volume to help unload those behemoths with their super-size energy bills and poor comfort. Instead see how we can reduce the square footage to something far more manageable. While you are at it, eliminate those extra-high ceilings. When ceiling heights are enlarged from 9’ to 12’, you now have one third more air to heat and cool.

For more information on Green Building contact:

U.S. Green Building Council- www.usgbc.org

Green Home Guidelines from the NAHB www.nahb.org/greenguidelines

Green Building Initiative www.thegbi.org