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Sustainable Home Building

High-performance buildings are designed and constructed to incorporate environmental considerations and resource efficiency into every step of the home building with the goal to minimize the home's environmental impact. Green building is a practical response to a variety of issues that affect all of us — like increasing energy prices, waning water resources and changing weather patterns. Through utilization of the following suggestions, you can rest assured that your home will remain efficient and safe.

 

A "Green" home is defined as a home which:

  • Saves energy, water, and other natural resources
  • Incorporates sustainable or recycled products and materials
  • Protects indoor air quality
  • Employs moisture management for health and durability

 

For energy savings, Brierhill Homes suggests:
  • Low-E coatings on 2X insulated glass, which provides 3 times better insulation than clear single pane glass)
  • AC "SEER" rating of 15-18 & variable speed air handlers with upgraded filter options.
  • Tankless "on demand" HWH, saves 15-20% from the cost of a traditional water heating system
  • Foam insulation, radiant house wrap, thermal envelope
  • Energy Star appliances ( an Energy Star refrigerator saves it's upgrade cost in 5 years on average. A Energy Star Air Handler Unit saves it's upgrade cost in approximately 3 years)
  • VOC paints which reduce the need for artificial light (also promotes air quality)
  • Home Orientation and Design are integrated
  • Better ductwork sealing with Mastic
  • Solar/Electric upgrades are available

 

For water savings:
  • Low Flush Toilets
  • Low Flow Shower Heads and Aerators
  • Well-Water or Reclaimed Water for irrigation needs
  • Low Water Consumption Dishwashers
  • Tankless "on demand" Hot Water Heaters

 

For air quality improvements:
  • Better mechanical ventilation in baths, ceiling fans
  • Central Vacuum Systems to remove dust and allergens from the indoor air
  • Many more A/C returns and supplies promotes fresh air intake
  • The use of products with low VOC (volatile organic compounds, emitted as gas), which are found in paints, stains, carpet, padding, cabinets, sealants, and adhesives

 

For moisture management:
  • The use of upgraded flashing materials and techniques at all windows, doors, roofing materials, exterior wall, and roof penetrations
  • Additional A/C return and supply grills
  • MFlashing Boots at all wire penetrations through the exterior walls (wiring for A/C, Pool, TV & Cable, lights, etc)

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