Green Facts

We felt strongly that our home should have the least amount of environmental impact possible. We believe that taking care of the environment today is important to ensure that future generations have the same choices that we do. We also wanted those who stay here to feel good about doing so.

While the home cannot be considered completely “green,” we tried to utilize green building techniques, materials and appliances wherever possible. For example, we cut down the minimum amount of trees needed and used panelized framing. The house frame was built offsite by Cornerstone Custom Builders in a controlled environment to eliminate mold and exposure to the elements and reduce waste at the site. In panelized building no pieces of wood bigger than six inches are wasted.

How is Our Home Green?
With minimal extra effort and cost, we have incorporated the following features into our home:

• Panelized framing
• Argon gas-filled Low-E windows and doors
• Blown-in recycled paper insulation
• Geothermal heating and cooling
• Programmable thermostats
• Bamboo flooring
• Recycled carpeting
• Non-VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) paints and adhesives
• Dual flush toilets
• Low-flow showers and faucets
• ENERGY STAR exhaust fans
• ENERGY STAR appliances
• Dual burn fireplace
• Outside solar LED lights and motion sensors
• Compact Fluorescent Light bulbs (CFLs) in most fixtures
• Non-essential appliances are on separate circuit (that can be turned off when leaving)
• Kitchen cabinet recycling center

What Makes a Home Green?
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines green building as “improving the way that homes and homebuilding sites use energy, water, and materials to reduce impacts on human health and the environment.” Some key elements that help to make a home “green” include:

• Building Techniques
  Some green building techniques include waste reduction and recycling during the construction process, application of energy-efficient construction techniques/products, and smart growth and sustainable land development practices.
• Energy Efficiency
  Conserving energy makes the air cleaner, reduces greenhouse gases, prevents acid rain and preserves land by reducing the need for additional power plants. The typical home uses almost half its energy on heating and cooling, a third on appliances, lighting and equipment (TVs, computers, washers), and the last quarter on just the hot water heater and refrigerator.
• Water Conservation
  Water conservation reduces water demand, which allows rivers and streams to maintain adequate water levels, which in turn sustains healthy ecosystems. Groundwater reservoirs, which are vulnerable to depletion, are also preserved. Saving water also saves energy by reducing the amount used to purify, pump and treat.
• Green Materials
  Building materials and furnishings can be made from materials that cause minimal impact to the environment and are healthy for people. Choosing products made from renewable resources or recycled content, and made without harming the atmosphere and water help generations to come.
• “Phase II” Construction