I'd like to take some time to talk more about the ways the Centerport house will reduce and conserve energy. Living Green is all about taking extra measures to create a more sustainable home and planet.
To begin, here are a few of the ways we plan to make the house Eco-friendly:
Interior:
Most homes are framed using 2x4 wood and R13 insulation. However, in order to conserve energy, especially heat in the winter, the Centerport house is framed with 2x6 wood and fitted with R19 insulation. This may all sound pretty technical so let me break it down.
The "R" value that I am referring to is described by the U.S. Department of Energy: "An R-value indicates an insulation's resistance to heat flow. The higher the R-value, the greater the insulating effectiveness." Basically, by allowing for a thicker insulation my dad will be able to keep the house temperate while conserving precious energy. The graph to the left shows how effective using 2x6 walls with R19 insulation is in being clean, green and economical. Another benefit to this technique is less wood is necessary for framing since the pieces are larger.
These pictures are from inside the house. In the photo on the left you can see the insulation coming together on the second floor level. Currently, most of the areas in the house have insulation installed. The photo on the right shows the abscessed lighting in the living room (which also continues in other rooms), featuring several light fixtures in order to focus light in certain areas. The overhead lamps use florescent light (another energy saver) and will give the ability to adjust the lighting depending on the natural luminescence or lack thereof. Allowing specifically targeted areas to become illuminated rather than an entire room will also help conserve energy.
Exterior:
The exterior of the house is also designed to conserve energy. My dad has always loved the look of stucco-- I think I knew about it sometime definitely before the age of 10 years old. More than being smooth in quality and aesthetically pleasing, this particular stucco used in the Centerport house is also a great insulator. My dad used what is called an Exterior Insulation Finishing System, which basically uses foam and other materials to create a gap-less exterior. This exterior is specially designed to help insulate the home from the outside in. The E.I.F.S. is also more resistant to the elements and extremely waterproof.
As you can see in the picture to the left this stucco is used everywhere except for where the fixed glass panes are--which are also insulated and low-e (meaning they reflect the sun). Ideally, all of the thought and hard-work put into this building process will allow for an energy efficient, sustainable home.
Pin It
No comments:
Post a Comment