RRBuilders strives to build homes that help homeowners reap the benefits of investing in a high performance, “green” home. This can encompass several factors related to energy and resource efficiency, healthier living, increased comfort, and overall consideration of the environment. When building a home with green features, we consider all phases of building or remodeling, from pre-construction through the lifetime of the home. 

Energy Efficiency Considerations

• Building envelope – high-performance doors and windows, proper insulation, air sealing and ventilation for a thermally efficient building shell

• Proper sized and energy-efficient heat and cooling systems, with appropriate zoning and controls based on the size and layout of the home

• The role of natural lighting in design and efficiency

• High efficiency lighting and appliances (i.e. lighting controls and bulbs, efficient appliances)

• Alternative energy sources such as photovoltaic and geothermal systems (i.e., ClimateMaster)

• “Smart home” automation systems for monitoring and controlling power use, thermostat settings, lighting, window shades, entertainment, irrigation and more (i.e., Crestron, Savant, Nest)

• Passive House design and practices

Building Materials and Furnishings – Sustainability and Healthfulness

• Products and materials made with recycled and reused content, sustainably-harvested

• Manufacturing and shipping processes – zero or low waste manufacturing, local sourcing, efficient shipping weights and distances (for reduced transport fuel usage)

• Toxicity – zero or low VOC paints, flooring, and furniture finishes

• Life of materials – durability, high recyclability potential

• Waste-conscious construction processes and allocation of materials

Water Efficiency

• Water conserving plumbing fixtures – low-flush toilets, low-flow showerheads and faucets, with today’s technology no user comfort is sacrificed

• On-demand and/or point-of-use hot water systems

• Site planning that minimizes the impact to existing landscaping and natural features; protect and retain existing landscaping as best possible

• Use of organic landscaping treatments for less toxicity

• Use of native plants for less water usage; select plants that have low water/pesticide needs and generate minimum trimmings

• Rainwater collection systems to help with irrigation

• Recycled content paving materials, furnishings, and mulches