A
FREE
CONS U ME R
G UI D E
New Residential Construction Washington DC Metro, Baltimore Metro & Eastern Shore
Go green. Live green. Stay green.
AllTheGreenHomes.com A
REG IS TE R
PUBL IC AT I O N
How green are you? By Patricia Belser
What makes a green home? A green home incorporates smart design, technology, construction and maintenance elements to significantly lessen the negative impact of the home on the environment and improve the health of the people who live inside. No matter your location or living situation, the opportunities for living a greener life at home are limited only by your imagination. PALE GREEN
You are just getting started. You know there is much to learn and many things you can do. You simply have not had the time. But you are ready NOW!
MEDIUM GREEN
You have implemented eco-friendly techniques and use environmentally safe products in your home. You know the impact your home has on the environment and you are ready to do more.
GREEN
You have a green home you use green products both in your home and landscape.
2·
SPRING 2009
inside
How Green are You? 2 Do You Speak Green? 4 Energy Inovations How Homes Become Green 10 Green Certifications & Ratings 12 Green New Home Builders 16 Green Action - Items for Your Home 18 Energy Star - What’s Behind the Logo 19 president/publisher Randy Bartow
The Grass is Always Green Gardening Tips 22
advertising Randy Bartow
Energy Efficient Mortgages Can Save You Some Green 26 Green is Not New 28 Green Resources 30 advertising, subscription & contact information 7945 MacArthur Boulevard, Cabin John, MD 20818 Phone: 301.468.7001 Fax: 301.468.7005 E-mail: info@registermarketing.com Websites: www.allthegreenhomes.com & www.registermarketing.com
executive editor Pat Belser technology Bruce London art director Becky Murry assistant art director Gabriela Romero
business Paul Hanson distribution HD Dellinger
Green Homes is published by Bartow Communications. Bartow Communications also publishes The New Homes Register & The Relo Report. All rights reserved. Neither the publisher nor the advertiser will be held responsible for any errors found in the magazine. The publisher accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of data. All prices, features and special incentives are subject to change without notice.
SPRING 2009
·3
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Home Energy Team
From the editor Builders are going “green”. You should, too! You’re holding the premier issue of Green Homes. Although it may seem a bit incongruous to “kill trees” and print information on going “green”, we’ve taken precautions to keep our footprint as small as possible – recycled paper, shorter stories and a belief that the information contained in this issue will make consumers more eco-conscious and thus more than offset our use of resources. Green home building is on the rise and eco-conscious builders are designing and constructing new homes that utilize GREEN practices and products. Most builders today already use energy efficient windows, doors, appliances and the newest insulation products. And now they are offering creative floor plans...with a new concentration on smaller homes, which by their very nature can reduce consumer costs. The concept behind Green Homes was to create a magazine that helped both Realtors and consumers learn more what “green” home building is all about. Let’s face it, when you can be eco-friendly and save money at the same time, it’s a perfect marriage. Our stories are range from the history of eco-consciousness to how to “green” your home today. For even more focus on homes designed with the environment in mind, we’ve compiled a list of builders who are building “green” homes (see pages 16-17) and on pages 30-31 you’ll find a list of resources so you can do your own research about “green” building. We hope that Green Homes will either spark your interest in buying “green” or make you aware of how even the most simple changes can make a huge environmental impact.
Go green. Live green. Stay green.
Patricia Belser
About the editor… Patricia Belser has over 25 years in the furnishing and design industry. For 20 years she directed one of the largest residential design shows in the United States. She is President of Design Marketing & Exhibitions, LLC., a firm specializing in concepts/ ideas marketing plans and Event/Conference planning and production. A primary focus for new marketing and events is in the GREEN field. She can be contacted at (410) 268-5678 or pat402@comcast.net. SPRING 2009
·5
Do you speak
GREEN?
By Patricia Belser Alternative Energy – Alternative energy refers to energy sources which are not based on the burning of fossil fuels or the splitting of atoms. Some alternatives include: solar, wind power, geothermal, tides, and geothermal energy. Biodegradable – A material or substance which, when left exposed to nature, will decompose without harmful effects to the environment. Biofuel – Fuel (like methane) produced from renewable biological resources such as plant biomass and treated municipal and industrial waste. Biomass – Plant materials and animal waste used as a source of fuel. Building Envelope – The entire perimeter of a building enclosed by its roof, walls and foundation. Properly designed, the envelope can minimize temperature gain or loss and moisture infiltration. Building Integrated Photovoltaic’s (BIPV) – Solar panels that have been integrated into the design of the building or structure. Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (CREBs) – Created as part of the Energy Policy Act of 2005, CREBs are “tax credit bonds” in which interest is paid for by the Federal Government in the form of tax credit. Construction Waste Management Plan (CWMP) – A plan that diverts construction debris from landfills through conscientious plans to recycle, salvage and reuse. Eco – Anything pertaining to the positive interaction between manmade processes and the delicate organic balance found in our environment. Eco Footprint – The total measurable effect that human related activities have had on the organic life in Earth’s environment: Eco-Friendly – Having minimal to no harmful or threatening impact on the natural environment
6·
SPRING 2009
THE
M
ARK OF EXCELLENCE
Indulge
SAVE MORE
YOUR SENSIBLE SIDE.
Today.
Best prices in years. Historically low interest rates. Closing cost assistance. Options credit & other fabulous incentives. Ask about savings on homes for immediate delivery. MARYLAND Montgomery County Clarksburg Village in Clarksburg Luxury single family homes from the $500’s. (301) 528-5106 Park Ridge in Clarksburg Estate single family homes from the $600’s. (301) 916-8235 Grace Farm in Clarksburg Estate single family homes from the upper $700’s. (301) 916-8235 Damascus Overlook in Damascus Estate single family homes from the $700’s. (301) 253-2632
Leaman Farm in Germantown Luxury single family homes from the $600’s. (301) 916-7806 Howard County Stratford II in Laurel Luxury single family homes from the $600’s. (301) 498-2594 Stone Lake in Laurel Estate single family homes from the $700’s. (301) 498-2594 Prince George’s County Oak Creek in Upper Marlboro Single family homes from the $400’s. (301) 390-4471
AND
Tomorrow.
Energy Star Certification included*. Green Building leadership in every Craftmark home. Save big on electricity, gas, heating & air conditioning. Give your family a healthier, sustainable lifestyle. Do your part for the environment at home every day. VIRGINIA City of Alexandria Potomac Greens in Alexandria Luxury townhomes from the low $700’s. (703) 838-9820
Fairfax County Crooked Creek in Centreville 5 Acre wooded homesites from the $800’s. (703) 830-5503
Oak Grove in Alexandria Luxury 1/2 acre single family homes from $2 million. (703) 461-0105 Loudoun County Village of Waxpool in Ashburn Estate single family homes from the $700’s. (571) 223-0099
Prince William County Meadows at Morris Farm in Gainesville Luxury single family homes from the $400’s. (703) 754-3469
Open 11am – 6 pm Daily. Brokers Welcome.***
CraftmarkGreen.com MHBR #451
*All information contained here-in was compiled from a variety of sources including Craftmark Homes, National Association of Home Builders & the Energy Star certification program. Details are subject to change without notice at any time. Consult community sales managers for more information. Offer does not apply to standing inventory & is only available on single family homes to be built. Prices, terms, lot availability and features subject to change without notice. Can not be combined with other incentives.***Must register at site and comply with all policy terms.
MAKE YOUR MARK
Environmentalism – a broad philosophy and social movement centered on a concern for the conservation and improvement of the environment. Energy Efficient – Products and systems that use less energy to perform as well or better than standard products. “Energy Star¨ Rating – The label given by the EPA and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to appliances and products that exceed federal energy efficiency standards. This label helps consumers identify products that will save energy and money. Environmentally Friendly – A term that refers to the degree to which a product may harm the environment, including the biosphere, soil, water and air. Geothermal – Utilizing the heat of earth’s interior. Green - A philosophy of creating eco-friendly products, using sustainable technologies that will not deplete our planet of its remaining resources. Green Architecture – Green Architecture is a term used to describe economical, energysaving, environmentally-friendly, sustainable development. These resources explore the relationship between architecture and ecology. Green Building – is the practice of increasing the efficiency with which buildings use resources — energy, water, and materials — while reducing building impacts on human health and the environment, through better site placement, design, construction, operation, maintenance, and removal — the complete building life cycle. Green Business – Green businesses operate in ways that solve, rather than cause, both environmental and social problems. These businesses adopt principles, policies, and practices that improve the quality of life for their customers, their employees, communities, and the environment. Green-e – The nation’s leading program that verifies and certifies renewable energy products that reduce the emissions contributing to global warming and air pollution. GreenGuard® – Established performance-based standards to define goods such as building materials, interior furnishings, furniture, cleaning and maintenance products, electronic equipment and personal care products with low chemical and particle emissions for use indoors. The standards establish certification procedures including test methods, allowable emissions levels, product sample collection and handling, testing type and frequency, and program application processes and acceptance. High Performance Green Building – These buildings include design features that conserve water and energy; use space, materials and resources efficiently; minimize construction waste; and create healthy indoor environments.
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Hydroelectricity – Comes from the damming of rivers and utilizing the potential energy stored in the water. Inorganic – Being, or composed of matter other than plant or animal. LEED® – The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Building Rating System sets industry standards for green building design. It is a program created by the U.S. Green Building Council. Life-Cycle Assessment – The comprehensive examination of a product’s environmental and economic effects throughout its lifetime, including raw material extraction, transportation, manufacturing, use and disposal. Life-Cycle Cost – The amortized annual cost of a product that includes first costs, but also extends to include installation, operating, maintenance and disposal costs over the product’s lifetime. Post-Consumer – A material or finished product that served its intended use as a consumer item. It may be recycled and incorporated into building materials and identified as containing post-consumer recycled content or recovered material. Post-Consumer Waste – Waste produced by the end consumer, and following use is separated from other waste with the intent of recycling or re-use. Recycled – Manufactured from used or waste materials that have been reprocessed for further use. Renewable Energy – Energy that is generated from regenerative resources; or energy that cannot be exhausted, such as wind, water and sunlight. Smart growth – an urban planning and transportation theory that concentrates growth in the center of a city to avoid urban sprawl; and advocates compact, transit – oriented, walkable, bicycle – friendly land use, including neighborhood schools, complete streets, mixed – use development with a range of housing choices. Sustainable Material – Materials that are generated from resources that are managed in a way that they are, for all practical purposes, sustainable over an extended period of time (i.e., the resource is not depleted). USGBC, the U. S. Green Building Council – a nonprofit environmental organization with more than 14,000 member organizations dedicated to sustainability in building design and construction. Xeriscaping – The basic ideas of Xeriscaping are the use of efficient irrigation systems, low-water use plants, reducing turf grass, and creating water-wise garden designs. SPRING 2009
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E N E R G Y
I N OVATIO N
How Homes Become GREEN 16
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6 10
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1 Oriented strand board (OSB) is an engineered wood product that does not require large trees for its manufacture. It is resource efficient and enhances durability and is used to sheathe roofs and walls in 75 percent of new homes.
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2 Tree preservation reduces landscaping and future energy costs and helps provide winter wind breaks or summer shade. Additional landscaping improves the environment even more: One tree can filter 60 lbs. of pollutants from the air each year.
3 New toilets have redesigned bowls and tanks that use less water, but function more efficiently than first-generation low-flow models. Some use pumps for supplementary water pressure. Advanced shower and sink faucet aerators provide the same flow regardless of pressure to reduce water use and the energy required to heat it. 4 Recycled plastic lumber and wood composite materials reduce reliance on chemically treated lumber and durable hardwood for decks, porches, trim and fencing. 5 The energy efficiency of refrigerators and freezers has tripled over the last three decades because they have more insulation, advanced compressors, better door seals and more accurate temperature controls. Front-loading washers use about 40% less water and half the energy of conventional models. Energy Star®-rated appliances save an average of 30 percent over standard models. 6 Factory-built components including trusses and pre-hung doors allow more efficient use of raw materials, making the most out of every piece of lumber. These products eliminate the need to cut wood at the job site, further reducing waste. 7 In addition to natural wood, flooring choices include low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) carpets for better indoor air quality, laminates that successfully mimic scarce hardwood, and linoleum, a natural product making a design comeback. 8 Foundations should be as well insulated as the living space walls for efficient home energy use and enhanced comfort, particularly if the basement is used as a family room or bedroom. 9 Selecting more efficient, correctly sized heating, cooling and water-heating equipment saves money. Tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand at a SPRING 2009
preset temperature rather than storing it, which reduces or eliminates standby losses. Geothermal heat pumps work with the Earth’s renewable energy and can also heat water. 10 Covered entries at exterior doors help to prevent water intrusion, reducing maintenance and enhancing durability. 11 Xeriscaping, or using native plants, significantly reduces the need for watering, fertilizers and herbicides. 12 Incorporating passive solar design features like large, south-facing windows helps heat the home in the winter and allows for increased natural day lighting. 13 Increasing the amount and R-value of insulation is a cost-effective way to save energy and help reduce heating and cooling bills, which account for at least half of energy use in the home. Sprayed insulation made of foam, cellulose or wool is an alternative to traditional glass fiber batting. 14 Vinyl siding on exterior walls saves money on installation and maintenance; fibercement siding is termite- and water-resistant and warranted to last 50 years. 15 Energy-efficient windows incorporating advanced technologies like low-emittance (low-E) glass coatings, gas filler between layers, and composite framing materials keep heat inside in the winter and outside in the summer. 16 More durable roof coverings such as steel and fiber cement reduce the frequency of roof replacement. Lighter colors absorb less heat, reducing cooling costs in warm climates. Now, solar roofing products integrate asphalt shingles, standing-seam metal roofing, and slate or concrete tiles. Source: National Association of Home Builders Illustration: Rick Vitullo
·11
Certifications & Ratings Green Rating Guidelines & Labeling Programs By Patricia Belser
There are nearly 50 regional and national green home labeling programs around the country. While each program approaches green building a little differently, each incorporates important elements such as: · Energy-efficient construction techniques and products. · Improved indoor environments through environmentally preferable materials and building practices. · Water-efficient products and processes. · Renewable energy options, when feasible. · Waste reduction and recycling during the construction process. · Smart growth and sustainable land development practices.
ENERGY STAR Ratings The label given by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to appliances and products that exceed federal energy efficiency standards. This label helps consumers identify products that will save energy and money. ENERGY STAR - labeled appliances often exceed the efficiency levels of other new products. www.energystar.gov
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U.S. Green Building Council Program LEED-RESIDENTIAL Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design LEED for Homes is a voluntary rating system that promotes the design and construction of high-performance green homes. A green home uses less energy, water and natural resources; creates less waste; and is healthier and more comfortable for the occupants. Benefits of a LEED home include lower energy and water LEED Certification - Different LEED versions have varied scoring bills; reduced greenhouse gas emissions; systems based on a set of required and less exposure to mold, mildew and “prerequisites” and a variety of other indoor toxins. The net cost of owning a “credits” in the six major categories. LEED home is comparable to that of owning a conventional home.
National Association of Home Builders Program NAHB Introduces Certified Green Professional Designation - A new professional designation program from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) will soon provide home buyers with additional assurance that the builder or remodeler they’ve chosen is authentically “green.” Builders, remodelers, and other industry professionals must have at least two years of building industry experience and be involved in the construction of at least one home in the past 24 months to apply for the Certified Green Professional designation.
SPRING 2009
·13
Up to a
$10,000
Declare your energy independence. Energy Credit makes it easy!*
Brookfield Homes leads the way in the creation of energy from renewable resources available right at home. We call it Brookfield Blue. You will call it energy independence. Best of all, you will save money while we all join together in helping to save the planet.
Geo-Thermal HVAC heats and cools with natural energy from the earth.
Wind Turbines turn breezes into electricity for your home.
Solar Modules use sunlight to generate power and hot water.
Don’t miss the Grand Opening of our Energy Lab at Snowden Bridge, where the energy solutions of tomorrow are created and tested today. Prince William County, VA Melody Landing at River Oaks in Woodbridge Townhomes from the mid $200’s. Garage townhomes in an amenity-packed community with 2-3 bedrooms and 3 finished levels.
Frederick County, VA Snowden Bridge Energy Lab near Winchester GRAND OPENING! Single Family Homes from the upper $100’s - upper $300’s.
Phone (703) 221-3975
An 800 acre planned community minutes from Winchester with mountain views, pools, ball courts & trails.
Cramer Ridge in Triangle Single Family Homes from the upper $200's.
Phone (866) 347-7755
An all-single family home community near I-95 & VRE featuring an array of traditional home sizes with 3 - 7 bedrooms.
Phone (703) 441-7904
Stafford County, VA Woodstream in Stafford Single Family Homes & Townhomes from the mid $200’s.
Kelley Farm in Woodbridge Single Family Homes from the mid $300’s.
A close-in address near I-95 with a planned community lifestyle minutes from the Potomac, parks & golf.
A close-in address near I-95 & VRE where spacious luxury is included for the finest in traditional family living.
Phone (540) 657-1974
Phone (703) 441-7904 Saranac in Gainesville Adirondack-Style Homes from the upper $300’s.
THE SARANAC COMMUNITY Monument Award Winner
A world-class gated enclave with pools & lake views featuring uniquely spacious & elegant residences.
Private homesites adjacent to the Potomac River and George Washington’s estate.
Phone (703) 799-1827 Keswick Custom Homes
Phone (571) 248-4147 Morris Farm in Gainesville Single Family Homes from the upper $200’s.
Fairfax County, VA Mason Run in Mt. Vernon Single Family Homes from the low $900’s.
THE HYBRID HOME Monument Award Winner
Single family homes with 3-6 bedrooms in a wholesome planned community with every amenity.
Customize on our homesite, yours or one we find for you. In Northern Virginia, Maryland & the Eastern Shore.
Phone (703) 288-3020 or visit KeswickHomes.com. Providence of Brookfield Homes Age 55 and Better Lifestyles Heritage Shores in Bridgeville, DE Single Family Homes from the low $200’s.
Phone (703) 753-6650 Loudoun County, VA Reserve at Rokeby Farm in Leesburg Single Family Homes from the upper $500’s.
The “Best Active Adult Community In The Country” located just a half hour from the Delaware beaches.
Phone (302) 337-1040 or visit www.ProvidenceofBrookfieldHomes.com.
One acre estates in a natural setting off Route 15 just minutes from the Dulles Greenway.
Phone (703) 858-5030
Open Daily 10am - 6pm. Brokers Welcome.
For details & directions visit
BrookfieldBlue.com
*Energy Credit cannot be combined with any other offer. All offers are valid at select communities on homes to be built on contracts signed between 4/1/09 – 4/30/09. Prices and features are subject to change without notice. Certain restrictions apply. See Community Sales Managers for details.
NEW HOME BUILDERS Advantage Homes
AdvantageHomesUSA.com
301/540-1778
Augustine Homes
AugustineHomes.com
540/372-7770
Beazer Homes MD
Beazer.com
301/381-1860
Beazer Homes VA
Beazer.com
703/749-9111
Bethesda Bungalows
BethesdaBungalows.com
301/652-7299
Bowa Builders
Bowa.com
703/734-9050
Brookfield Homes
BrookfieldBlue.com
703/270-1400
Camberley Homes
CamberleyHomes.com
301/803-4800
CarrHomes
CarrHomes.com
703/658-6060
Centex
Centex.com
703/679-1600
Comstock Homes
ComstockHomeBuilding.com
703/883-1700
Craftmark Homes
CraftmarkGreen.com
703/734-9855
Craftstar Homes
CraftstarGreen.com
703/827-5045
D. R. Horton/MD
DRHorton.com
301/670-6144
D. R. Horton/VA
DRHorton.com
703/385-8002
Del Webb
DelWebb.com/Celebrate
703/934-9300
Drees Homes/MD
DreesHomes.com
301/663-6104
Drees Homes/VA
DreesHomes.com
703/257-3434
EYA Associates
EYA.com
301/634-8600
Hazel Homes
HazelHomesVA.com
540/891-1091
K. Hovnanian Homes/MD
KHov.com/HighPerformance
301/772-8900
K. Hovnanian Homes/VA
KHov.com/HighPerformance
703/631-0834
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Kettler Forlines
KettlerForlinesHomes.com
301/258-0980
Mitchell & Best
MitchellBestHomes.com
703/762-9511
NVHomes/Maryland
NVHomes.com
301/258-0002
NVHomes/Virginia
NVHomes.com
703/814-8000
NVP Inc.
NVPinc.com
703/369-0691
Oakridge Communities
OakridgeCommunities.com
703/777-5435
Parkwood Homes
ParkwoodHomes.com
301/831-7743
Providence of Brookfield Homes
ProvidenceatHeritageShores.com
703/270-1426
Quaker Custom Homes
QuakerCustomHomes.com
703/551-0043
Rosemark DesignBuild
RosemarkDesignBuild.com
301/953-3110
Ruppert O’Brien Group
RuppertObrien.com
301/577-3887
Ryan Homes MD
RyanHomes.com
301/975-0707
Ryan Homes VA-WV
RyanHomes.com
703/631-3520
Ryland Homes/Balt area
Ryland.com
410/480-0525
Ryland Homes/DC area
Ryland.com
703/502-5200
Schulz Homes Corp
SchulzHomes.com
540/687-3367
Silverstock Properties
Silverstock.com
302/541-0411
Stanley Martin
StanleyMartin.com
703/964-5000
Steuart Kret Homes
SKHomes.com
301/870-5603
Toll Brothers/Maryland
TollBrothers.com
410/872-9105
Toll Brothers/Virginia
TollBrothers.com
571/291-8000
Van Metre Homes
VanMetreHomes.com
703/425-2600
Vista on Courthouse
VistaOnCourthouse.com
703/253-8001
Waterford Development
WaterfordDevelopmentLLC.com
703/674-1699
Williamsburg Homes
WilliamsburgLLC.com
410/997-8800
Winchester Homes
WinchesterHomes.com
301/803-4800
SPRING 2009
·17
GREEN ACTION
Items for your Home SMALL TIPS
BIG IMPACT By Patricia Belser Making eco-friendly decisions doesn’t mean you have to change to change your entire lifestyle overnight. Think of changing habits gradually – making your home the first place you start. Begin with simple/ easy solutions and gradually build more GREEN changes into your life and home, even small changes can have an enormous positive impact on the environment. Change light bulbs from traditional incandescent to compact fluorescent light bulbs. It can trim 5 percent from your monthly electrical bill. Use recycled paper products – If every household in the U.S. replaced just one roll of virgin fiber paper towels with 100% recycled ones, it could save 544,000 trees. Fill your bottle with filtered tap water – buy a reusable water bottle instead of plastic Shut your tap -When brushing your teeth, remember to turn off the faucet. If you ‘brush two minutes and your faucet puts out the average three gallons per minute, you’ll save six gallons.
18·
Paper or plastic? Really neither! It is estimated that in the U.S. almost 30 billion plastic and 10 billion paper grocery bags are used each year, requiring approximately 14 million trees and 12 million barrels of oil. Keep a reusable bag handy for shopping trips. Eliminate paper napkins and paper plates – Use cloth napkins and real plates, it’s more elegant anyway. Wash in cold water for bonus points. Alternative energy. Contact your local utility company about alternative energy options for powering your home like wind power, landfill gas, biomass, and low-impact hydropower. Unplug it -UN plug cords for cell-phone chargers, microwaves, little used lamps and other appliances when not in use. Another reason for a new TV – LCD flat panel TV uses as little as 1/3 of the electricity of conventional tube-based models. Use low VOC Paints – choose a product low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) Buy in bulk – Cut down on excess packaging and trips to the store by buying either jumbo containers that hold more or from bins of loose flour, rice, etc. Buy Local – Buying organic produce grown within 100 miles of your home will help reduce the amount of diesel fuel needed to ship food. Turn down the thermostat – for every degree you lower it between 70° and 60°, you’ll save about 5 percent on heating costs.
WHAT’S BEHIND THE LOGO? By Patricia Belser ENERGY STAR is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy helping us all save money and protect the environment through energy efficient products and practices. Through its partnerships with more than 12,000 private and public sector organizations, ENERGY STAR delivers the technical information and tools that organizations and consumers need to choose energy-efficient solutions and best management practices. Recently, energy prices have become a hot news topic and a major concern for consumers. ENERGY STAR provides a trustworthy label on over 50 product categories (and thousands of models) for the home and office. These products deliver the same or better performance as comparable models while using less energy and saving money. ENERGY STAR also provides easy-to-use home and building assessment tools so that homeowners and building managers can start down the path to greater efficiency and cost savings. Results are already adding up. Americans, with the help of ENERGY STAR, saved enough energy in 2007 alone to avoid greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those from 27 million cars – all while saving $16 billion on their utility bills. Features of ENERGY STAR Qualified New Homes To earn the ENERGY STAR, a home must meet guidelines for energy efficiency set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These homes are at least 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code (IRC), and include additional energy-saving features that typically make them 20-30% more efficient than standard homes.
·19
This label identifies a home as having earned the ENERGY STAR And with home buyers increasingly interested in green building, energy efficiency is the place to start. That’s because the energy used in homes often comes from the burning of fossil fuels at power plants, which contributes to smog, acid rain, and risks of global warming. So, the less energy used, the less air pollution generated. ENERGY STAR qualified homes can include a variety of ‘tried-and-true’ energyefficient features that contribute to improved home quality and homeowner comfort, and to lower energy demand and reduced air pollution: 1. Effective Insulation Properly installed and inspected insulation in floors, walls, and attics ensures even temperatures throughout the house, reduced energy use, and increased comfort.). 2. High-Performance Windows Energy-efficient windows employ advanced technologies, such as protective coatings and improved frames, to help keep heat in during winter and out during summer. These windows also block damaging ultraviolet sunlight. 3. Tight Construction and Ducts Sealing holes and cracks in the home’s “envelope” and in heating and cooling duct systems helps reduce drafts, moisture, dust, pollen, and noise. 4. Efficient Heating and Cooling Equipment In addition to using less energy to operate, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems can be quieter, reduce indoor humidity, and improve the overall comfort of the home. 5. Efficient Products Qualified homes may also be equipped with ENERGY STAR qualified products – lighting fixtures, compact fluorescent bulbs, ventilation fans, and appliances, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines. 6. Third-Party Verification With the help of independent Home Energy Raters, ENERGY STAR builder partners choose the most appropriate energy-saving features for their homes. Additionally, raters conduct on site testing and inspections to verify the energy efficiency measures, as well as insulation, air tightness, and duct sealing details.
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SPRING 2009
ENERGY STAR - Benefits for Homeowners ADDED CONFIDENCE Home buying is complex enough without having to know all the details of energyefficient construction. Instead, look for the government-backed ENERGY STAR label to easily identify homes that are truly energy efficient. Find the house of your dreams and enjoy peace of mind knowing that it also meets strict energy efficiency guidelines. LOWER OWNERSHIP COST Compared with standard homes, ENERGY STAR qualified homes use substantially less energy for heating, cooling, and water heating-delivering $200 to $400 in annual savings. Over the average 7 to 8 years you may live in your home, this adds up to thousands of dollars saved on utility bills. Additional savings on maintenance can also be substantial. Financing your home purchase using an energy efficient mortgage can also lead to savings. BETTER PERFORMANCE Properly installed energy efficient improvements deliver better protection against cold, heat, drafts, moisture, pollution, and noise. SMART INVESTMENT To date, more than 5,000 home builders have partnered with EPA to construct more than 840,000 ENERGY STAR qualified homes. By the end of the decade, more than 2 million homes are expected to earn the ENERGY STAR. The trend is clear. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION Did you know that your home can be a greater source of pollution than your car? In fact, 16 percent of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions are generated from the energy used in houses nationwide. Energy used in our homes often comes from the burning of fossil fuels at power plants, which contributes to smog, acid rain, and global warming. Simply put, the less energy we use in our homes, the less air pollution we generate.
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The grass is always
GREEN By Patricia Belser
Whenever we think of eco-friendly architecture, building and renovation, we often forget that our landscaping can have an enormous impact on how efficient and sustainable a home is in the long run. With the growing cultural emphasis on conservation and environmental awareness, “going green” is a term you often here. Applying it to your landscape and gardens not only makes literal sense but can also give you a beautiful and harmonious addition to your home. Applying green principles to your outdoors is fundamentally about using sound gardening principles and the use of materials in their most natural form. The following is a list of ideas that will help you create an eco-friendly landscape that will complement green home design. Incorporating even a few of these tips will help you save energy and water, and also reduce environmental contamination. EQUIPMENT & LANDSCAPE ACCESSORIES Use Energy Efficient + Non-polluting Reel or Electric Lawn Mowers Although gas-powered mowers are coveted as a great time-saving device, there are alternatives that are cleaner, non-polluting and more energy efficient. Modern reel mowers are a great way to mow and get exercise at the same time. For larger lawns opt for a nonpolluting electric mower. Solar Powered Landscaping Lights will help cut down Energy use Even though solar energy can still be expensive for a lot of homeowners, using a few solar powered landscaping lights can help to reduce your overall energy use. Always Compost! Composting occurs naturally in the great outdoors and is a process that keeps organic nutrients cycling from soil to plants and back to the soil. You can apply the same principles by composting organic waste from your home to return needed nutrients to the soil. Everything from fruit peels, to grass clipping and leaves are great materials to compost and mix into garden soil. The numerous benefits of Composting include: (1) Reducing the need for chemical fertilizers Reducing municipal waste, (2) Improving soil moisture retention, (3) Boosting plants’ immune systems, and (4) Reducing municipal waste.
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GARDENING PRACTICES Organic Gardening Basics Organic gardening focuses on building up the soil, creating a natural balance, using native plants and plants appropriate for your garden, One easy way to start is to grow a small organic kitchen garden using your compost, adding only non chemical fertilizers. It is a great way to save money and live in a sustainable way. Mulch. Using a thick layer of organic mulch to cover your garden beds helps your garden retains water, prevent weeds from growing, and will contribute added nutrients to your soil. Mulch also cools the soil and encourages the presence of beneficial soil organisms like earthworms. Grass-recycle. When lawn trimmings or garden scraps are thrown away, the nutrients they contain are lost. When you leave the clippings on the lawn you not only provide ready-made organic mulch that will break down into fertilizer, but you’ll also save time and energy in bagging them up. Additionally, you reduce stress on your local municipal landfills. Aerate the ground. Soil naturally compresses over time, which can make it difficult for roots to get established. In a balanced environment, worms and soil bacteria work to reduce soil compaction. PLANTS Use Native Plants in Your Landscaping Native plants are adapted to your region, so they naturally hardy generally require less maintenance and water than exotic plants. They are also more resistant to pests and diseases than many exotics, reducing the need for pesticides. Additionally, native plants attract native wildlife and beneficial insects. The U.S. EPA’s Greenacres Program is a great place to look for information on using native plants. Introduce companion plants. In Nature you will rarely see fields taken over by a single plant. This is because different plants often work together and provide mutual benefits. For instance, garlic and roses – these two plants protect each other from different insects. And some plants act as sacrificial bait – the plant hyssop placed near cabbage will draw cabbage moths away. However keep in mind that insects are still a valuable part of a garden, you can encourage beneficial insects while discouraging harmful ones by creating balance in your garden.
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TREES AND YOUR ENVIRONMENT Trees are the master plant of the earth and the benefits of planting, saving and maintaining trees are essential to our ecosystem. They are not only beautiful but essentially they are the lungs of the planet, they breathe in carbon dioxide and breathe out oxygen. Mature trees can absorb roughly 48 pounds of CO² a year. The tree in turn releases enough oxygen to sustain two human beings. Trees reduce urban runoff and erosion by storing water and breaking the force of rain as it falls. The USDA reports that 100 mature trees can reduce runoff caused by rainfall by up to 100,000 gallons! Trees also absorb sound and reduce noise pollution; studies have shown that a well planted group of trees can reduce noise by up to 10 decibels. Additionally, trees shade asphalt and reduce what is known as the “Heat Island” effect. Trees Help save Energy Planting trees can also help cool your home in the summer. According to The Arbor Day Foundation the overall effect of the shade created by planting a healthy tree is equivalent to 10 room-size air conditioners running 20 hours a day! In the winter, trees can act as windbreaks for your home and will help you save on heating costs. The Journal of Horticulture claims that saving on heating costs can reach as much as 25 percent! Plant Deciduous Shade Trees to Reduce Energy Use Planting deciduous trees (trees that drop their leaves in the fall) can help cool your home and reduce your air conditioning costs during the summer. When these trees drop their leaves, they also allow sunlight to warm a home or building during the winter. To help shade your home during the hottest months of the summer plant tall trees on the east and west-facing sides of your house. Plant Evergreen Trees to Block Cold Winter Winds Evergreen trees can create a natural windbreak to reduce cold winter winds. It’s common to plant trees for windbreaks on the north and west sides of a home. However, you will need to determine the dominant wind direction for your area and plant upwind. Plant and maintain Trees to increase your Property values Mature trees add considerably to a homes value, in addition homes with trees are more attractive to both visitors and potential buyers.
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WATER Convert to Drip Irrigation Systems Drip irrigation systems (micro-irrigation systems) deliver water directly to your plants with minimal waste. Use Barrels to Irrigate Rainwater is naturally soft water that is basically chemical-free. Using rainwater also reduces municipal storm water runoff and reduces your water bill. When to Water Water in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid evaporation. Never water on windy days. Use “Xeriscaping” in Your Landscape Xeriscaping has been mainly associated with the arid landscapes of the Southwestern U.S.; however its main concepts are applicable to all gardens and landscapes. They can be green, cool landscapes full of beautiful plants maintained with water-efficient practices. The basic ideas of Xeriscaping are the use of efficient irrigation systems, low-water use plants, reducing turf grass, and creating water-wise garden designs. Advantages include: · Lower water bills; Xeriscaping landscaping incorporates seven basic principles which lead to saving water- Planning and design, Soil analysis, Practical turf areas, Appropriate plant selection, Efficient irrigation, Use of mulches, Appropriate maintenance · Less time and work needed for maintenance, making gardening more simple and stress-free · Little or no lawn mowing (saves energy) · Xeriscape plants along with proper bed design tends to take full advantage of rainfall · When water restrictions are implemented, Xeriscape plants will tend to survive, while more traditional plants may be unable to adapt.
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Energy Efficient Mortgages Can Save You Some Green By Patricia Belser Did you know that you can save money by making your home energy-efficient? If you don’t have the money to finance the necessary renovations, many lenders are now offering Energy-Efficient Mortgages (EEMs) to conservation-minded homeowners. These are specialized mortgages designed to help homeowners renovate and upgrade their homes for the express purpose of saving money by making the property more energy-efficient. Inquire at your local bank or mortgage broker about this very innovative home loan program.
There are several ratings that can be given for energy usage; be sure to ask your lender which one they require. One very common rating is the Home Energy Rating System (HERS). The person who performs the rating is either a certified rater or an energy auditor who gathers information from the property and inputs it into a computer program, which generates a report. This report is used to rate the house and give it a score from 1-100. Not only does this report assess the current energy usage of the house, it also provides suggestions on ways to improve the energy efficiency of the home. It will even detail the estimated costs, savings, and break-even points for each improvement.
To be eligible for the EEM, the proposed improvement must be cost-effective; in other In order to qualify for an EEM, your house must words, the monthly savings realized from the be rated for its energy usage. This energy property’s utility bills must be greater than the rating evaluates the entire structure of the added monthly cost of the energy-efficient property, assessing the amount of energy used mortgage. Total savings must also be greater based upon the amount and type of insulation than the project’s total costs. that the home has, the type of windows that are installed, even the kinds of appliances The actual loan process for an EEM is basically that are being used. It also takes into account the same as that of a regular mortgage, along the kind and quality of major energy-using with the additional paperwork to determine components such as the cooling and heating the house’s rating eligibility. A facilitator can systems. The better the quality of the structure be used to make the unfamiliar areas run and the less amount of air leakage in the more smoothly for both the borrower as well ducts, the better the energy rating the house as the lender. Once funded, the homeowner will receive. has between 90 and 180 days to complete the renovations. The loan amount, usually about 150% of the total cost of the improvements, is placed into an escrow account by the lender. As the contracting company completes the project, money is released to pay them.
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The Energy-Efficient Mortgage is a great way to renovate and modernize your home, while at the same time conserving much-needed power resources. In addition to that, you also reap the reward of lower utility costs each and every month, for as long as you own the home. Over the years those saving can become quite substantial, even helping you along the way toward your financial goals.
GREEN is Not New By Patricia Belser
Though the modern environmental movement arose during the Industrial Revolution a concern for environmental protection has recurred in diverse forms, in different parts of the world, throughout history. 8th to 13th Century 8th to 13th century – Middle East, The Islamic Golden Age - the earliest known writings concerned with environmental pollution were Arabic medical treatises written during the “ Arab Agricultural Revolution” 1272 (13th century England) – King Edward 1 of England banned the burning of sea-coal by proclamation in London in 1272, after its smoke had become a problem. 18th & 19th century 1739 – United States – In the United States, the beginnings of an environmental movement can be traced as far back as 1739, when Benjamin Franklin and other Philadelphia residents, citing “public rights,” petitioned the Pennsylvania Assembly to stop waste dumping and remove tanneries from Philadelphia’s commercial district. 1800’s – The US movement expanded in the 1800s, out of concerns for protecting the natural resources of the West, with individuals such as John Muir and Henry David Thoreau making key philosophical contributions. Thoreau was interested in peoples’ relationship with nature and studied this by living close to nature in a simple life. Muir came to believe in nature’s inherent right, especially after spending time hiking in Yosemite Valley and studying both the ecology and geology. He successfully lobbied congress to form Yosemite National Park and went on to set up the Sierra Club. The conservationist principles as well as the belief in an inherent right of nature were to become the bedrock of modern environmentalism.
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Late 18th & early 19th century – Industrial Revolution was a period in the late 18th and early 19th centuries when major changes in agriculture, manufacturing, production, and transportation had a profound effect on the socioeconomic and cultural conditions in Britain. The changes subsequently spread throughout Europe, North America, and eventually the world. The onset of the Industrial Revolution marked a major turning point in human society; almost every aspect of daily life was eventually influenced in some way. In Europe, it was the Industrial Revolution that gave rise to modern environmental pollution as it is generally understood today. The emergence of great factories and consumption of immense quantities of coal and other fossil fuels gave rise to unprecedented air pollution and the large volume of industrial chemical discharges added to the growing load of untreated human waste. 1863 – The first large-scale, modern environmental laws came in the form of the British Alkali Acts, passed in 1863, to regulate the deleterious air pollution (gaseous hydrochloric acid) given off by the Leblanc process, used to produce soda ash. Environmentalism grew out of the amenity movement, which was a reaction to industrialization, the growth of cities, and worsening air and water pollution. 20th century, environmental ideas continued to grow in popularity and recognition. Efforts were starting to be made to save some wildlife, particularly the American Bison. The death of the last Passenger Pigeon as well as the endangerment of the American Bison helped to focus the minds of conservationists and popularize their concerns. 1916 – The National Park Service was founded by President Woodrow Wilson. 1940’s, 50’s, 60’s 1949 – A Sand County Almanac by Aldo Leopold was published. It explained Leopold’s belief that humankind should have moral respect for the environment and that it is unethical to harm it. The book is sometimes called the most influential book on conservation. 1952 – Europe/ England - Air pollution would continue to be a problem, especially later during the industrial revolution, and extending into the recent past with the Great Smog of 1952 1962, Silent Spring: by American biologist Rachel Carson. The book cataloged the environmental impacts of the indiscriminate spraying of DDT in the US and questioned the logic of releasing large amounts of chemicals into the environment without fully understanding their effects on ecology or human health.
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1970’s 1970 – United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was created In the 1970s, the Chipko movement was formed in India; influenced by Mahatma Gandhi, they set up peaceful resistance to deforestation by literally hugging trees (leading to the term “tree huggers”). Their peaceful methods of protest and slogan “ecology is permanent economy” were very influential. By the mid-1970s, many felt that people were on the edge of environmental catastrophe. The Back-to-the-Land started to form and ideas of environmental ethics joined with anti-Vietnam War sentiments and other political issues. These individuals lived outside normal society and started to take on some of the more radical environmental theories such as deep ecology. New pressure groups formed, notably Greenpeace and Friends of the Earth. 1973 – Around this time more mainstream environmentalism was starting to show force with the signing of the Endangered Species Act in 1973 and the formation of CITES in1975. 1979, James Lovelock, a former NASA scientist, published Gaia: A New Look at Life on Earth, which put forth the Gaia Hypothesis; it proposes that life on Earth can be understood as a single organism. 1980’s ON Environmentalism has also changed to deal with new issues such as global warming and genetic engineering. The Environmental movement (a term that sometimes includes the conservation and green movements) is a diverse scientific, social, and political movement. In general terms, environmentalists advocate the sustainable management of resources, and the protection (and restoration, when necessary) of the natural environment through changes in public policy and individual behavior.
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RESOURCES Associations/Organizations Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Institute ..................................................................ari.org American Concrete Institute ...........................................................................concrete.org American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) .................................aceee.org American Forests .............................................................................................. amfor.org American Home Appliance Manufacturers........................................................... aham.org American Institute of Architecture Committee on the Environment (COTE) .................. aia.og American Planning Association.......................................................................planning.org American Solar Energy Society .............................................................................ases.org Construction Materials Recycling Association ..............................................cdrecycling.org Ecological Design Institute ...........................................................................ecodesign.org Energy Audit .............................................................................................. bgehome.com Energy Star ................................................................................................energystar.gov Federal Greening Toolkit ..................................................................................p2pays.org Gas Appliance Manufacturers Association .......................................................gamanet.org Global Green USA..................................................................................... globalgreen.org Health House Institute (HHI) ........................................................healthyhouseinstitute.com Maryland Environmental Design Program.............................. dnr.state.md.us/ed/index.html National Association of Homebuilders ..........................................................nahbgreen.org National Insulation Institute .......................................................................... insulation.org Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) ..............................................................seia.org Solar Living Institute ....................................................................................solarliving.org Sustainable Energy Coalition ................................................sustainableenergycoalition.org US Green Council ..............................................................................................usgbc.org World Green Building Council ........................................................................ worldgbc.org
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Media Resources Building Design + Construction ................................................................bdcnetwork.com Eco-Structure.........................................................................................ecostructure.com Eco-Home Magazine .................................................................... ecohomemagazine.com Environmental Building News ................................................................ buildinggreen.com Environmental News Network .............................................................................. enn.com Green@work................................................................................... greenatworkmag.com GreenBiz.com ............................................................................................. greenbiz.com Green Building Articles .............................................................. greenbuildingarticles.com HGTV Green Building pages ...........................................................................hgtvpro.com Journal of Green Building..................................................collegepublishing.us/journal.htm Residential Resources 16 Ways to Green Your Home ........................ usgbc.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=2121 Green Building Materials ..........................................................................green2green.org Green Home Building....................................................................greenhomebuilding.com Green Home Resources .....................................................................greenhomeguide.org Consumers Guide to Energy Efficiency ........... apps1.eere.energy.gov/consumer/your_home Fine Homebuilding...........................................................................finehomebuilding.com Green Building Advisor.......................................................................... buildinggreen.com Health House ...........................................................................................healthhouse.org Ratings of Green Materials ........................................................................ rateitgreen.com Miscellaneous Resources Department of Housing and Urban Development ....................................................hud.gov Green Home Products ....................................................................... lowimpactliving.com Green Your Home .................................................................................... greenhome.com Green Your Life ...................................................................................thegreenguide.com Tax Incentives ........................................................................... energy.gov/taxbreaks.htm Advertisers Brookfield Homes ................................................................................ brookfieldblue.com Craftmark Homes .............................................................................craaftmarkgreen.com The Home Energy Team ..............................................................thehomeenergyteam.com Winchester Homes ......................................................................... winchesterhomes.com SPRING 2009
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Design for the Ages
®
Let Winchester Homes design the home that fits your lifestyle now and into the future. We offer the opportunity to incorporate the principles of Universal Design and green living, including efficient use of space, intuitive appliances, enhanced circulation areas, and low-energy features. Through our unique Your Home. Your Way.™ program, we take the time to learn exactly what you want and then we bring it to life.
Clarksburg Village Show Home of Ideas From the Mid $700’s. OPEN BY APPOINTMENT ONLY 240.686.0024 To Visit: Take I-270 north to Exit 18 towards Clarksburg. Turn right at exit, then go straight as road becomes Stringtown Road. Turn right at Snowden Farm Parkway into Clarksburg Village. Turn Left on Grand Elm Street. Model on the corner of Grand Elm Street & Snowden Farm Parkway.
MHBR #57
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