Green features of Universal Designed "Smart" Homes.
May we ask you to consider the following?
What is the use of building a home with universal design features if you cannot make the utility bills or remain in your home at all times? Conversely, what is the point of building a highly energy efficient, sustainable home if you or a family member are not able to obtain basic access and able to use it?
As people live longer lives, sooner or later you, or someone you love, may experience these life challenges. Wouldn't you (or they) prefer to remain in your own home, and possibly avoid long term hospital expenses or long term out of home care at the same time?
Genuine Independent living can be achieved with Lifespan home design and sustainable and clean air features. These mutually complement each other and benefit all of your friends and family.
These building plans are designed with an energy efficient building envelope. I am also an NAHB designated Certified Green Professional (CGP). All of the homes are designed with energy efficient construction details and specifications per the 2012 IECC energy codes. You may select the code of your choice as it may be the 2015 code in some areas.
Since the heating and cooling system accounts for 50-70% of your homes total energy use, (according to the US Dept.of Energy, DOE) the savings can be large.
For both water and energy conservation we highly recommend point-of-use tankless water heaters.Water Pedals, automatic water shutoff, aerators and infrared sensors in faucets can also be selected. Other water saving features are a integral part of all designs.
These products are a good idea for those that are forgetful while saving you hundreds of dollars and gallons of water over time.People don't realize the energy required to deliver the new gold of the 21st Century.....Water.
The home plans are designed with abundant natural light, in several areas of the home that have been traditionally dark such as hallways for example. Tubular skylights are often included at the end of hallways. This is also your option. Natural light has proven to improve occupancy health and safety and is a very important feature in all designs.
I try and inform customers and educate for alternative energy sources including the use of geothermal, passive and active solar systems. Although I do not specify specific mechanical systems in the plans due to building science that varies at differing climates, I recommend the use of in-floor radiant heating for both energy efficiency, comfort and clean indoor air. Many still elect to utilize energy efficient forced air although this can cause problems for asthma and allergy sufferers.
The homes are highly insulated and the windows are specified with low-E glass as per code. The ERV or HRV mechanical ventilation system will assure adequate fresh air. Low and no volatile organic compounds (VOC) products and no urea formaldehyde finishes are specified.
The plan book includes an extensive Green Building and Sustainable Design sections as well as Clean Indoor Air with tips and specifications you can use right away.
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