Radiant barriers are utilized to reduce summer heat gain in attics and help to improve the efficiency of green building envelopes. A radiant barrier can lower heat transfer from attics to the building below, keep the attic space cooler and lower cooling costs by up to 17% in warmer climates. We take a look at how radiant barriers work, the different types of radiant barriers and some of the misconceptions surrounding them.
Knowing your climate zone and building accordingly is one of the basic tenants of building science. Moisture, extreme temperatures and inclement weather require completely different building techniques to ensure longevity and efficiency. When you know your building climate zone you can select techniques and materials that are safe, cost effective, and efficient to install and provide an energy efficient building envelope.
Building enveloped that perform poorly reduce energy efficiency, increase ROI times, and increase carbon footprints and utility bills for building owners. A blower door test can help to establish the airtightness of small to medium buildings, measure the flow of air between different areas in a building and test the airtightness of ductwork.
Here’s some things you should focus on when installing batt insulation in order to improve your home’s R-value.
Programmable thermostats do have the potential to save the homeowner money, but they can also cost more. The secret to success is the way in which you use them. Whether you are installing one in your own home or in a home for your customer, it’s imperative to educate users so that they are able to effectively save energy (and money) by installing a programmable thermostat.
Despite code restrictions on supply ducting in building cavities, they are regularly utilized for return ducting. However, this practice compromises your building envelope and leads to leaks. When return-air plenums are installed, it results in energy loss, an increase in energy bills and a less efficient HVAC system.
The building envelope is only as effective as its weakest element and all too often these areas the doors and windows in a home which can account for up to a third of the overall energy loss according to the APA. Not only do these openings lead to energy loss, but as a result of less than appropriate levels of insulation, condensation can occur, which can lead to damage and can cause mold and mildew. Technological advances have seen the creation of advanced window and door systems which prevent energy loss and condensation.
Quality and energy efficiency are synonymous with Grayhawk Homes Inc. Want to know founder Dave Erickson’s secret to success? A return to the good old fashioned principles of value for money, good workmanship, genuine care for home owners as well as a healthy respect for the environment.
