Here we go with our fifth installment of Going Green in which we follow the construction, and green certification process, of the Wheaton Green Home being built by Jason Werr of JAW Builders and designed by SWA Architects. We have just passed the Rough Inspection phase of the green verification process as construction is continuing. As I’ve said in previous posts, the Rough Inspection is done after the insulation is installed, but before drywall starts to go up. This way I, as the verifier, can inspect framing techniques and plumbing and mechanical installation before it is covered up.
The ultimate goal for this home was to reach the Emerald level, the highest level achievable, of the NAHB Green Building Standard. We have reached the point in the process where we can now realistically estimate where the finished product will fall and it appears the Emerald will be just out of reach due to a couple of different factors.
Something we have learned as we have been going through this process with Jason Werr, and other clients, is that there are two kinds of factors that will determine what level you will achieve. There are those factors that are within a builder’s control, such as material selections and recycling of construction waste, and factors that are beyond a builder’s control, such as the orientation of your site to the street and the climate zone your site falls in. Read the rest of this entry »
