Q.What is green building?
A.Green building is a sustainable design philosophy which focuses on increasing the efficient use of energy, water, and materials resource use while reducing building impacts on human health and the environment during the building’s lifecycle. This is accomplished through carefully planned siting, design, construction, operation, maintenance, and plant/debris removal.
Q.Why should you consider green building for your next home?
 |
Green built homes are healthy to live in
- Only Low VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) paints and adhesives are used
- Mold is prevented due by moisture control through systems like house wraps, air sealing, proper vapor barrier placement, shower exhaust fans, and ERV (Energy Recovery Ventilator) systems
|
|
|
Green built homes have a reduced impact on the environment
1.Green built homes conserve energy
- A superior thermal envelope is created using better windows, more insulation, and improved air sealing
- Energy efficiency is increased with Energy Star appliances, compact fluorescent light bulbs, and superior heating and cooling systems
- The need for heating and cooling is decreased due to passive solar design and solar electricity & water heating systems
- Home owners of green built homes are educated on how to live green and conserve energy with little disruption to theor lives
- These homes are designed smaller, yet with a “big” feel of spaciousness and multi-tasking rooms. This requires less heating and cooling
2. Green built homes conserve materials in that they use less materials, need less materials, which results in less damage to the environment from materials manufacturing
3. These homes are built for extended longevity. They last longer, needing fewer materials for repairs. This results in a lower need for materials from the environment and fewer materials manufactured.
4. Home owners of green built homes are educated on how to prevent the need for additional materials due to rot
5. These homes take less water from the environment with high efficiency low-flow toilets, faucets, and comfortable shower heads, hot water close to showers, and smart irrigation |
|
Q.What is the position of New Vista Development on green building?
A. “I believe in and follow the principles of green building,” says Kurt Mueller, President of New Vista Development. “I first lower the energy needs of the home with a better thermal envelope and passive solar design, and then work towards meeting these lowered needs with high efficiency systems (furnace, water heater, appliances, etc.). The result is a well-built, highly efficient, durable home that facilitates excellent indoor air quality and requires little maintenance.”
|
