Benefits of Owning a Green Home

Operating Costs

The technologies and practices required to build a green home to certain criteria may result in lower costs to operate the home. Energy-efficient appliances, lighting systems, and HVAC equipment result in lower energy consumption compared to other models. Using less water through water-conserving faucets, showers, toilets, and irrigation systems may also result in less water consumption. Properly sized HVAC systems mean that less energy is needed to condition spaces. Employing technologies such as photovoltaic panels for solar electricity and water heating, and geothermal heat exchangers could reduce dependence on public utilities, too

Maintenance

Effective storm water management and landscaping could mean less time maintaining outside spaces. Also, sustainable building practices lead to the use of some longer-performing materials and careful construction assemblies. Drained foundations, water spouts on gutters, and flashing around windows and doors might reduce the opportunity for system failure within the building due to moisture intrusion.

Indoor Environmental Quality

Indoor air quality is one of the guiding principles of the ICC 700-2008 National Green Building Standard and the NAHB Model Green Home Building Guidelines. Homes that allow for proper air exchange through ventilation, and low-emitting products like low- or no-VOC paints reduce off-gassing. Further, green building practices look at reducing the opportunity for moisture intrusion. The efficient HVAC systems, windows, and floor plans also mean that heating and cooling is better distributed throughout the home.

The Environment

Increased energy and water efficiency in construction could lead to decreased energy and water consumption in a home throughout its lifespan. Further, some renewable, recycled, and other efficient building products used in green home construction may reduce the impact on natural resources. Also, green homes often include resource and waste reduction and recycling amenities.

Financial Benefits

In addition to the many benefits of living in a green home, there are many financial incentives that can help make green homeownership even more affordable

Funding opportunities and incentives:

• The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) provides a comprehensive database of state, federal, and utility incentives, rebates, and tax credits for using materials and practices that promote renewable energy and energy efficiency. The information is searchable by a number of variables, including state, technology, type of incentive, and more.
• The ENERGY STAR program includes among its many resources a listing of tax credits for consumers and homeowners, home builders, and manufacturers.
• The Green Building section of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) website features a directory of green building funding sources targeted for several audiences including consumers, and industry sectors.
• Be sure to consult your Local Program website

Financing and Loans

• The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) offers an Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM) Home Owner Guide, which details the benefits and opportunities of this type of financing.

• The Department of Housing and Urban Development also contains information about EEMs, and provides links to more information.

• The Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) offers frequently asked questions and additional resources on EEMs.

• The ENERGY STAR website explains the three types of EEMs.

MW Waste Reduction Program

MW implements a waste reduction program for our projects.  Through careful planning of the project, waste can be reduced dramatically.  Some examples include:

• Dimensions – On design-build projects, two feet incremental dimensions are utilized as much as possible since most building materials are in two foot increments.  This eliminates waste by getting the full use of the materials.
• Metal Framing – The materials selections are carefully reviewed in detail.  For example, for a 22’ long wall track, typically the plates are cut from three 12’ pieces of track.  MW would utilize a 10’ piece and a 12’ piece basically eliminating any cutting and waste.  For studs, precut studs are utilized eliminating waste as well.
• Drywall – Since drywall is in 4’ wide sheets, MW performs a panel takeoff to layout the drywall in the best scenario to minimize waste.
• Other building materials – Most items such as finishes like tile are in nominal increments.  All materials are reviewed as to provide the best layout to minimize materials and waste.

Download the U.S. Green Building Council's "Green Building Facts" PDF

Download the "Impact Facts" PDF