Building Green
We have a deeply rooted passion of creating a minimal footprint on this Earth while not living, but thriving in our environments; our neighborhoods support this statement. Using locally sourced materials with minimal chemicals is important, yes; however, building above and beyond the standard will save our planet, our neighborhoods and our wallets year after year. The way the world produces, uses and stores energy is changing just a rapidly as the way houses are built. In 2015, the energy sources for about 68% of total electricity generation in 2015 were by fuels which produce byproducts of heavy metals and airborne particlar, CO, CO2, SO2, NOx.
Creative Spaces recommends every homeowner educate and consider each one of the items listed below. Some of which add cost to the building while others simply require dedication to time and creative detail.
- Design and orientation with the sun for optimized solar gain and privacy.
- WaterFurnace geothermal heating a cooling systems (largely considered to be the best in the industry).
- Above and beyond what code ‘dictates’ for air sealing with liquid applied flashing, air sealing, acoustical caulk and vapor/moisture barriers.
- Insulated concrete form (ICF) foundations.
- High performance insulation.
- Sun sensing, insulated blinds.
Short-Term Benefits of Green Building:
- Lower energy bills
- Reduced water consumption, leading to lower water bills
- Lower home maintenance costs
- Healthier homes with better indoor air quality
Long-Term Benefits of Green Building:
- Sustained, overall reduction of home energy used, giving you more money in the bank
- Reduced energy dependence
- Lessened strain on water supply
- Minimized product and building material use
- Less pollution for the Earth through responsible energy use
- Preservation of natural resources for future generations
- Greater family comfort, health and peace of mind