by Lora Corder | Sep 9, 2016 | Construction
If you have a home with a crawl space or you are building one, there are several options on what to do with that particular foundation type to handle air movement. (more…)
by Lora Corder | Jan 8, 2016 | Construction, Energy Efficient Design, Green Building
Exerpt from: DOE Building America Best Practices Series: Volume 4 – Builders and Buyers Handbook for Improving New Home Efficiency, Comfort, and Durability in the Mixed-Humid Climate
Mixed-Humid Design Features
A. Efficient Windows: help to control and reduce ultraviolet light that can fade carpets and furniture, helping to keep your belongings looking like new and keeping window areas cooler and more comfortable to sit near. Window flashing protects against water leaks.
B. Compact and Tightly Sealed Duct Runs: shorter runs mean less to go wrong and fewer air leaks to put air where it is intended to go, with fewer contaminants like humidity and dust from attics or crawlspaces. Leaky ducts are a major contributor to mold problems. Return air paths ensure balanced air pressure for less drafts and more balanced temperatures throughout the house. Put ducts in conditioned space,
if possible.
C. Right-Sized and High-Efficiency HVAC Equipment: costs less to install than bigger equipment, saves energy, and is designed to comfortably handle heating and cooling loads. (more…)
by Lora Corder | Jan 8, 2015 | Construction
Value engineering is defined as an analysis of the functions of a program or project, directed at improving performance, reliability, quality, safety, and life cycle costs. (more…)
by Lora Corder | Jan 8, 2015 | Construction
Staying Current with New Standards
IECC 2009: Did you know that the new International Energy Conservation Code® (IECC 2009) requires increased inspections and testing for energy efficiency for all new construction?
The Department of Energy (DOE) is committed to moving to net zero energy homes by 2020. The first major step toward those goals is embodied in the 2009 IECC, which by various estimates is 12% to 15% more energy efficient than its 2006 predecessor. (more…)