Case Study - Going Green

A Single Family Home Case Study

Architect Rick Alfandre is one of a growing number of environmentally conscious individuals discovering the economic benefits of green construction. His home, a 2500 square foot, 3 bed / 2 bath environmental gem is located in High Falls, NY, achieved Silver Certification in the USGBC LEED for Homes residential green building program.

Home Energy Benefits

Passive Solar – Oriented to the south while utilizing the warmth and energy of the sun to reduce heating costs.

Solar Energy – Separate hot water tank holds domestic water for faucets and showers that is pre-heated by way of solar thermal panels on the roof. In addition, a 2.8 kW photovoltaic (PV) array will supplement electrical needs.

High Efficiency – Fitted with an extremely high efficiency heating, cooling and whole-house ventilation system. All the home’s lighting fixtures and appliances are Energy Star rated and/or efficiency rated for water usage.

Structure – 2x8 timbers utilizing Advanced Framing Techniques to reduce the consumption of wood products. The stud cavities were densely insulated with blown-in cellulose made of recycled newsprint, and the basement is insulated with 4 inches of rigid foam on the exterior. Triple-glazed, low E Pella windows were installed throughout the house.

Resource Efficiency – Minimized construction work and land disturbance through sustainable management plan.

Benefits – Home is 50% more efficient as compared to a similar home built to code standards, enabling receipt of Federal Energy Tax Credit.