You are probably familiar with Smart Homes where technology is integrated into the design giving the owner easy control of the home’s systems. To take that control one step further, savvy buyers and renovators are now investing in the latest home-building philosophy called “high-performance construction.”
It is basically the science and techniques that give the owner control of the performance, health impact and longevity of the home. Additionally, it guards the structure from many of the problems that eventually plague most homes. Here are some examples of high-performance features:
Rain screen: One of the elements that has a huge impact on the durability of the structure is a rain screen. The builder creates an air gap between the wood framing and the exterior cladding (brick, siding, stucco, etc). Sooner or later moisture will get behind all exterior walls. With a rain screen, it will accumulate in the air gap where it can dry out over time rather than soak the wood promoting rot, mold and general decay.
HVAC: Another important focus is the creation of a well-thought-out HVAC design that takes into consideration air quality, not just temperature. According to Chris Knight, president of New South Homes (specialists in high-performance construction), most HVAC systems are not sized correctly for the space. Aside from the fact that an oversized unit is needlessly more expensive, the short cycling causes the system to work inefficiently which negatively affects the air quality in the home.
Air Sealing: One of the hottest topics for high-performance builders is air sealing. In the past, builders believed that a house needs to breath; but, the purpose of this newer technology is to give homeowners control of their environment. If air is moving in and out of the home through unsealed gaps, you can also bet that heat, pollen, pollution, pests and other problems are entering or exiting the home. With advanced construction techniques, homeowners can control what passes through their environment. The bad stuff is sealed out, while the good stuff is sealed in.
Insulation: To most of us, more insulation is always a plus; but, it may surprise you that the wrong type of insulation can actually cause problems, especially for a renovation. If there is no rain screen (air gap in the walls), certain types of insulation against wood framing can cause it to rot or deteriorate. Though unintended, this can trap moisture and create all kinds of problems. A high-performance builder will choose the right insulation for the space.
Air Quality: You’ve probably heard that certain products can negatively affect the air quality of your home which ultimately affects your well-being. For example, certain carpets, upholstery treatments and flooring can emit particulates or gases that cause health problems. A high-performance builder utilizes products that keep the air clean and do not harm your family or the environment.
Once the architect and designer have penned their vision, these techniques allow the builder to add long-term value to the final product. Professionals in this industry go through special training to master these and other topics. The Southfaced Institute in Atlanta offers a program that allows contractors to earn Earthcraft Certification for building healthy, durable homes. There are also mastermind groups that meet regularly to discuss the latest techniques and trends. One example is a new BS and Beer group in Atlanta (where BS is short for Building Science). If you are interested in a resource available to anyone, visit GreenBuildingAdvisor.com. To find out more about high-performance construction, you can call New South Homes at 770-299-9541 or visit NewSouthHomes.com.
Whether you are building a new lake home or renovating an older one, it is a big investment. By utilizing the techniques in high-performance construction, you can maximize the life of the home while ensuring the well-being of your family.
