Green Defined
Green homes incorporate environmental considerations and resource efficiency into every step of the building and development process to minimize environmental impact. The design, construction and operation of a home must focus on energy, water efficiency, resource-efficient building design and materials.
Appliances, windows and water heating systems will have Energy Star ratings. The home should include efficient lighting fixtures and bulbs.
Fixtures and appliances such as low flow showerheads, faucets and toilets and Energy Star dishwashers and washing machines will conserve water.
Home size, orientation on the lot and floor plan layout are critical in the design of the home and development of the lot. The home should take advantage of natural daylight to reduce lighting needs and should use strategies to reduce heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the winter. The home should contain renewable materials including rapidly renewable wood species and recycled-content materials in carpets, tiles and concrete formulations.
The heating, ventilation and air conditioning system must be appropriately sized for an efficient and properly ventilated home. Fans in the kitchen and bathrooms should cycle fresh air inside and release stale air. Low-VOC paints, finishes and wall coverings should be used.
Care should be taken to preserve trees and other vegetation native to the area. Landscaping should contain plants that are appropriate for the climate and grouped according to water needs. Drives and walkways should be composed of water permeable materials.
When you consider a home, find out which of these elements have been factored into the design and construction.
Green homes incorporate environmental considerations and resource efficiency into every step of the building and development process to minimize environmental impact. The design, construction and operation of a home must focus on energy, water efficiency, resource-efficient building design and materials.
Appliances, windows and water heating systems will have Energy Star ratings. The home should include efficient lighting fixtures and bulbs.
Fixtures and appliances such as low flow showerheads, faucets and toilets and Energy Star dishwashers and washing machines will conserve water.
Home size, orientation on the lot and floor plan layout are critical in the design of the home and development of the lot. The home should take advantage of natural daylight to reduce lighting needs and should use strategies to reduce heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the winter. The home should contain renewable materials including rapidly renewable wood species and recycled-content materials in carpets, tiles and concrete formulations.
The heating, ventilation and air conditioning system must be appropriately sized for an efficient and properly ventilated home. Fans in the kitchen and bathrooms should cycle fresh air inside and release stale air. Low-VOC paints, finishes and wall coverings should be used.
Care should be taken to preserve trees and other vegetation native to the area. Landscaping should contain plants that are appropriate for the climate and grouped according to water needs. Drives and walkways should be composed of water permeable materials.
When you consider a home, find out which of these elements have been factored into the design and construction.
