| Looking at two seemingly identical houses, one Energy Star/LEED Certified and the other minimally code complaint, you won’t notice much on the surface that seems to be different.
The code minimum house will be a little cheaper. Money’s tight, and you want to get the most for your money. So…don’t buy the cheaper house! Spending a little more on the energy-efficient home will save you money in the long run because of these differences in the construction:
1. Higher standards of insulation installation, leading to a more weather-tight house.
2. Prescribed detailing to virtually eliminate wind infiltration.
3. Minimal usage of low performance insulation products such as fiberglass.
4. Class 1 Cellulose insulation, a locally recycled product that is sustainable.
5. More efficient heating systems and sealed ductwork to reduce air leakage.
6. Floor system air sealing for greater comfort.
7. Efficient doors and windows.
8. Low E glass.
9. Sealing around doors and windows with high performance materials.
10. Sealed combustion direct vent heating equipment.
11. No fuel smell from oil heating equipment.
12. Attics and knee walls sealed from living spaces as if they were outdoors (which they are).
13. Up to 35% heating cost savings.
14. SEER 12 and SEER 14 cooling equipment.
15. Indoor comfort at lower temperatures because of reduced drafts.
16. High efficiency lighting reduces lighting costs by 75%.
17. Higher humidity levels are achievable without damage to house – approximately 40% for greater health and comfort indoors.
18. Constant/periodic ventilation to refresh interior air.
19. Gas stove hoods vent outdoors for fumes and cooking odors. |
