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Building Green
Building Green Modular construction technology makes the most of building green
Modular construction is by nature a green building method. The building process is more efficient and produces less waste. It has less of a negative impact on the building site. Upon completion, a modular-built home offers significantly improved energy efficiency.
The construction of a modular home begins inside the controlled-environment of a factory where each tradesperson is skilled in their respective craft. Construction delays are virtually non-existent because all construction materials are available as needed. Also, since the construction occurs indoors, the materials are not exposed to the elements, which results in a better finished product that is free of respiratory contagions like mold and mildew.
Once moved to the home site, a modular home has less impact on the property and less material waste. The completed modular home provides a superior indoor environment with maximum energy efficiency — summer or winter. According to reports by the National Association of Home Builders, a modular home can reduce the costs of utilities by as much as 40%.
Homeowners can also receive tax credits when making green building decisions. In the past this has included installing energy efficient doors, windows, roofing and insulation, as well as furnaces, heat pumps and air conditioning systems. For up-to-date tax credit information on building a greener home, visit http://www.irs.gov.
There are three primary construction standards associated with green building in the United States. You’ll find more information regarding each of these designations by visiting the respective web site. And we always recommend discussing green building options with your builder or supplier. Find a Member near you.
Energy Star – This is a program created by the US Environmental Protection Agency that certifies and labels products as energy efficient, meaning that they use at least 20 – 30 percent less energy than standard products. The program covers products ranging from homes, to heating and cooling systems, and kitchen appliances. Find out more at http://www.energystar.gov and click on New Homes.
National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB) Green – This is a national green building standard established by the NAHB that applies to single and multifamily homes, and allows for flexibility in selecting regionally appropriate best green practices based on geography and climate, as well as style preferences and budget. It provides green options for every budget with three levels of certification.
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) – This certification program is run by the US Green Building Council (USGBC). It concentrates on improving performance in energy efficiency, indoor environmental quality, materials selection, sustainable site development, and water savings. The program is designed to inform and guide professionals who work with structures to create or convert spaces to environmental sustainability, including; architects, real estate professionals, facility managers, engineers, interior designers, landscape architects, construction managers, private sector executives, and government officials.