With R-23 blown-in fiberglass insulation in the exterior walls, R-62 ceiling insulation, and a U-0.26 window average, these units are well insulated, which aids in reducing the need for space heating and cooling. Even so, the houses are fully equipped with a ducted and ductless mini-split system that will provide comfort to the homeowners in both the summer and winter months. Other features include Panasonic spot ERVs for ventilation, a hybrid heat pump water heater, EnergyStar appliances, and LED lighting that help make these super high performing homes.

On the outside is a combination of siding material that creates a beautiful aesthetic. Beneath the siding, Henry’s Blue Skin and a rainscreen system help keep moisture out of the home. Interior material selections, in tandem with airtightness and moisture management, make this a low-VOC and healthy home.

Built Green Highlights

Site and Water

• 100% permeable hardscaping
• Green Factor score of 1.258
• Drought-tolerant landscaping and grass
• Low-flow plumbing fixtures

Energy Efficiency

• R-20 full sub-slab insulation
• Ducted and ductless mini-splits
• Hybrid heat pump water heater
• Energy Star appliances
• Balanced ventilation system
• 12KW solar panel

Geotech Consultants began by conducting a variety of studies of the site, including a natural resources inventory and review of the site development plan, which resulted in a protection and maintenance plan for priority natural resources during construction, along with a plan for preserving natural water and drainage features. All trees on the site were preserved and a certified arborist performed all pruning.

David Gray devoted equal care to reduce the home's energy use, starting with staggered-stud framing and BIB insulation. The space heating is hydronic radiant, produced using a Daikin Altherma air-to-water heat pump plus an evacuated-tube solar hot water system. A Lifebreath heat recovery ventilator ensures a steady supply of pre-conditioned fresh air. The radiant heating also improves the home's indoor air quality compared to a forced-air system, as does the total absence of carpet. To reduce the possibility of moisture problems caused by plumbing leaks, all distribution lines were kept out of exterior walls.

Another challenge was to maximize the mobility of one of the homeowners, who uses a wheelchair. The front and garage entries are both stepless, as are all exterior grade changes. Both the guest and master bathrooms are fully accessible, and all doorways are at least 2-feet-10 wide. The home also features an elevator.

Thanks to careful planning and detailed execution of every aspect of this project, the Websters are now able to enjoy a beautiful home that fully meets their needs.

Built Green Highlights

Site and Water

• Measures to protect critical area/steep slope, including:
  • Natural resources inventory by a qualified professional.
  • Third-party review of the site development plan for critical areas and habitat protection.
  • Protection and maintenance plan for priority natural resources during construction.
  • Tree pruning by a certified arborist.
  • Preservation of 100% of trees on-site.
  • Preservation of natural water and drainage features.
• No turf grass.
• Evapotranspiration-based irrigation controller with rain sensor and leak detection system.

Energy Efficiency

• Staggered-stud framing.
• Daikin Altherma air-to-water heat pump for hydronic space heating and DHW.
• Solar water heating using SPP 30A evacuated tube collector.
• Lifebreath heat recovery ventilation.
• 100 percent LED lighting with no recessed cans.
• Operable skylight for heat flushing.

In contrast, the interior is bright and well-lit by daylight flooding in through the windows, which will help minimize energy usage for lighting during the day. The house is also extremely well insulated; the exterior walls are covered in three inches of rigid foam, in addition the fiberglass blown-in blanket systems (BIBS) on the interior. The ceiling has a minimum of six inches of rigid foam on the exterior and the 16-inch-deep trusses are also packed with fiberglass BIBS. AeroBarrier helps reduce overall envelope leakage.

By combining AeroBarrier with a well-insulated envelope, RW Anderson was able to decrease the heating loads so the whole house could be heated (or cooled) with just a few ductless mini-split heads. This project also utilized a high-efficiency gas tankless water heater, Energy Star appliances, and high-efficacy lighting, allowing them to save over 40% more energy compared to a code-built house.

Beyond energy efficiency, many of the interior design choices were selected not only for their aesthetics, but also for their sustainability. Rather than using new materials throughout, many of the doors, light fixtures, and other products are salvaged material, with old markings bringing charm and character. The oak flooring used through is FSC and FloorScore certified.

The combination of all these items and the use of long-lasting siding products will reduce the overall impact on the environment while creating a beautiful, durable house.