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ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION
GREEN REMODELING IDEAS
If you are a homeowner that is thinking about remodeling your house, or are simply going to replace your dishwasher or washing machine, here are some environmentally friendly ideas you can consider when making your purchases.
Windows: Commonly homeowners believe that the double paned windows they have are all their home needs to be energy efficient. Double paned windows are not the only feature you should be looking for when purchasing windows. Pay attention to the sticker on the window for the U-factor rating and SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient) rating.
U-factor measures the rate of heat transfer through a window. The difference between U-factor and R-value (commonly found in insulation values) is that U-factor measures the rate of heat transfer while R-value measures the resistance to heat loss. The lower the U-factor, the better a window is at keeping heat in. This is important during the winter heating season. Typically we like to see windows with a U-factor less than .5
SHGC rating measures how well a window blocks heat from the sun. The lower the SHGC, the better a window is at blocking unwanted heat gain. This is especially important during the summer cooling season. Typically we like to see windows with a SHGC rating less than .5
Low-E (Low-Emissivity) coatings are very important when considering a window purchase. Low-E coatings are microscopically thin layers of metallic oxide that have been bonded to the surface of the glass. These layers prevent heat and ultraviolet rays from passing through the window. Basically Low-E windows keep the hot side-hot, and the cool side-cool.
Features to look for when purchasing windows:
 Energy Star Rating
Multiple paned
Low-E coating
Wood composite, vinyl or fiberglass frame
Argon or krypton gas filled
Doors: Often when homeowners are purchasing an exterior door, they focus on the door that has the ‘look’ they are trying to achieve. While increasing curb appeal is important for your investment, it is also crucial to pay attention to how the door is going to perform over time.
Exterior doors are typically made of either wood, steel or fiberglass. While wood has a great aesthetic appearance, it is a horrible insulator. Typically, steel or fiberglass clad doors will perform much better. Fiberglass has become a popular option because it gives the appearance of wood, and still performs five to six times better than solid wood.
Window options are a nice addition to the appearance of an exterior door, however doors with windows will not perform as well as solid doors. This is because windows are poor insulators. When considering an exterior door with a window, be sure that the window has multiple panes of glass, and a Low-E coating.
Air leakage is a common problem with many exterior doors. Take a look at the weather stripping that the door has. Is it replaceable? Does it actually seal? After installing the door, use an expanding foam to seal the door frame to the rough opening. Be sure to use low expanding foam made specifically for doors and windows, otherwise you could bow the door jambs.
Features to look for when purchasing doors:
Energy Star Rating
Fiberglass or steel cladding with a polyurethane core
Tight fit with improved weather stripping
Double or triple paned insulating glass
Insulation: Blown-in cellulose, Blown-in fiberglass, Spray foam, High R-value
Furnace: Energy Star Rating, Proper sizing and installation, AFUE of 90% or higher
Air Conditioner: Energy Star Rating, Proper sizing and installation, SEER rating of at least 14
Lighting: Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFL’s), LED lamps or rope light, T-5 or T-8 fluorescent tubes, low voltage, halogen
Appliances: Energy Star Rating, Energy use, Water use
Rain Water Collection: Roof rain water barrels, gutter systems, every inch of water falling on 1000sf of roof can collect 600 gallons of water that can be used for landscape irrigation.
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E3 ENERGY
~ APPLYING SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY FOR SMARTER, CLEANER AND MORE EFFICIENT BUILDING ENVIRONMENTS.
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~ Website by WEBari
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