Green Building Methods and Materials

Chapter Three: Green Building Methods and Materials

This section provides more detailed descriptions of green building practices, material applications, as well as the

associated environmental benefits. The items are ordered by ease of implementation as well as cost effectiveness. GREEN BUILDING METHODS & MATERIALS

14 A. Site

1. Recycle Job Site Construction for reuse. There are a number of 4. Protect Native Soil and Demolition Waste licensed contractors that offer dismantling services to salvage Description: Description: materials for reuse. Many firms are Typically, a building site is cleared Construction waste generally consists non-profits and will provide itemized of vegetation and the topsoil is of wood, drywall, metals, concrete, donation receipts. Usable items removed. After building, sod is laid

dirt and cardboard – materials that can also be dropped off at used on subsoil, beginning a cycle of high MATERIALS & METHODS BUILDING GREEN can be reused or recycled if prepared building material stores. Refer to water and chemical dependency. properly. Each year over 300,000 the Green Building Materials Listing. Ideally, construction is coordinated tons of construction and demolition with a landscape professional to debris is disposed of at Alameda Benefit: protect the soil, which is a valuable, County landfills. Salvaging reusable building materials living resource. decreases disposal costs, saves Application: natural resources and increases Application: Identify the types and quantities landfill capacity. Donations can be Design for minimum building & of materials generated at the job tax deductible. hardscape footprints and little or site and recycle at least 50% of no grading. Retain native vegetation. the construction/demolition Delineate and limit the construction debris. Contact local recycling 3. Remodel for Mixed Use, footprint; restrict heavy equipment facilities and haulers to identify Adaptive Reuse, and Historic that compacts soil, including cars, terms and conditions required for Preservation to areas that will be paved or built recycling materials. Allocate space over. When grading is unavoidable, for recycling bins and containers. Description: identify areas to be paved as a Call the Alameda County Recycling Reusing existing buildings is one place to store native topsoil during Hotline 1.877.STOPWASTE for of the most straightforward ways to construction. Amend soil with more information. conserve resources. Older buildings compost and re-spread topsoil typically feature high-quality materials after construction. Benefit: in the structure, doors, windows, GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING Recycling reduces pressure on land- and finishes. When working with Benefit: fills, saves money by reducing tipping historic buildings, remodelers Preserving native soils, along with fees, and provides raw materials for should also review the Department nurturing the health of disturbed future building products. of the Interior Standards for soils, can significantly reduce Historic Preservation. storm runoff, reduce fertilizer and pesticide requirements, 2. Salvage Reusable Application: improve water quality and conserve Building Materials Many high quality materials found irrigation water. in older structures can be left in Description: place or reused. Large timbers, Various building materials can be beams, columns, and trusses can salvaged and reused, such as floor- be regraded and certified for use in ing, doors and windows, tubs and structural applications. sinks, cabinets, fixtures, etc. Benefit: Application: The reuse of older buildings conserves When remodeling, consider salvage resources, diverts demolition waste and deconstruction, by selectively from landfills, and preserves neigh- and carefully removing materials borhood character. 15 5. Minimize Disruption of Existing Plants and Trees Application: Benefit: Complete a landscape survey to Preserving existing, mature landscape Description: determine the feasibility of preserv- features helps prevent soil erosion, Through careful planning and ing or relocating mature trees and maintains existing sources of natural construction practices, valuable shrubs. Fence trees and shrubs for cooling (e.g. shade from a mature trees and plants can be preserved protection from equipment. tree), diverts waste from landfills, in existing developments and and keeps the unique character of neighborhoods. the community.

18 16 20 GREEN BUILDING METHODS & MATERIALS 19 14 15

13 12 2 1 10 3 4 9 5

11 8 6

1 Permeable paving on driveway 8 Plants selected to match 14 Drip irrigation for vegetable and walkway to front door the microclimates beds, shrubs, trees and 2 Water from roof channeled to 9 Irrigation controller waters elsewhere where feasible. rainbarrel. hydrozones according to 15 Raised beds are constructed 3 Water for wildlife habitat. plant needs, soil moisture from plastic or composite 4 Lawn in front replaced with and weather lumber low water use native 10 Deciduous trees placed to 16 Compost bin recycles plant groundcovers. the west & southwest of the and kitchen debris

GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING 5 Pavers with spaces and low house & patio for summer 17 Evergreen windbreak blocks water use plants between. cooling north winter winds 6 Diverse plantings with many 11 Repository for leaves to collect 18 Trees not topped but pruned California native groundcovers, under trees as mulch properly shrubs and trees, but no 12 Mulched paths keep soil 19 Small lawn in backyard where invasive species covered family will use it 7 All plants given the space to 13 All plants grouped by water 20 Integrated pest management grow to their natural size needs into hydrozones used for controlling weeds, insect and disease pests 16 6. Implement Construction Site walkways, patios, and driveways. Stormwater Practices Install like conventional pavers. Design infiltration basins, swales Description: and berms to keep water on site. Stormwater runoff is part of a natural hydrologic process. However, land Benefit:

development and construction Allowing stormwater percolation MATERIALS & METHODS BUILDING GREEN activities can significantly alter reduces the volume of polluted natural drainage patterns and water that flows into rivers or the pollute stormwater runoff. Bay, while replenishing soil moisture and local aquifers. Additional benefits Application: include reduction in irrigation Identify all storm drains, drainage requirements, non-source pollution swales and creeks located near the Permeable Pavers as well as lower risk of flooding. construction site, and make sure all subcontractors are aware of their storm drains minimizes erosion locations to prevent pollutants from and water pollution and protects 8. Design Resource-Efficient entering them. Train employees not local creeks, reservoirs and the Landscapes and Gardens to dump anything down storm Bay. For more information, visit drains. Protect all storm drain inlets www.cleanwaterprogram.com or Description: using filter fabric cloth to prevent call 888/BAYWISE. Conventional landscapes have high sediments from entering the storm inputs of water and chemicals and drainage system during construction are often overplanted or planted activities. Keep materials out of the 7. Protect Water Quality with without regard for climate and soil rain, and prevent runoff pollution Landscape Design conditions. This results in excess at the source. Store hazardous water and fuel consumption, water waste in drums and covered bins Description: pollution and waste generation. and contract a company to dispose Designing landscapes to allow GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING of it properly. irrigation and stormwater to soak Application: into the soil recharges groundwater Specify plants that are appropriate Benefit: systems and filters out pollutants. for the climate and soil; select Properly managing a gallon of water slow-growing, drought tolerant, on site saves money in avoided Application: preferably California native engineering costs downstream. Use permeable paving, which allows plants. Design with perennials Keeping pollutants out of the water to percolate into the soil, for instead of annuals; choose and

GREEN BUILDING TIP COMPOST FRUIT, VEGETABLE AND YARD TRIMMINGS

Compost is nature’s way of recycling. Turn fruit, vegetable and yard trimmings into a first rate soil conditioner. Use compost to replace store-bought soil conditioners. Compost adds nutrients and beneficial microbes to soil, improves soil fertility and reduces watering needs. Composting saves money by lowering garbage bills, increases the ability of soil to hold water, improves soil health, and helps extend the life of our landfills. Contact the Alameda County Rotline 510.444.SOIL for more information and discounts on compost bins. 17 site trees to reduce building Application: or weather based controllers. Use heating and cooling energy. Give captured rainwater. Group plants Use salvaged or recycled-content plants plenty of room to mature, by water requirements. materials for hardscapes (patios, reducing the need for pruning. decks, walkways and driveways) Avoid invasive species and hedges Benefit: and other landscape structures. that require constant shearing. High-efficiency irrigation systems Limit turf to the smallest area Benefit: dramatically reduce landscape water that will meet recreational needs. use, and are critical to preventing The durability of plastic or composite Recycle yard trimmings by grass- disease & minimizing weed growth. lumber is greater than wood as cycling, mulching and composting. they do not rot, crack or splinter. Salvaging or buying recycled-content Benefit: landscaping products conserves 11. Provide for On-Site Water Sustainable landscape techniques are natural resources and strengthens Catchment / Retention in harmony with the local environment markets for recycled materials. and help conserve water, reduce use Description: of chemicals, create healthier soil Rainwater is channeled through GREEN BUILDING METHODS & MATERIALS and plants, and increase bio-diversity 10. Install High-Efficiency gutters and downspouts to an above in landscape areas. Irrigation Systems ground cistern or underground gravel dry well. Stored water is Description: used for landscape irrigation. 9. Reuse Materials/Use New irrigation technologies apply Application: Recycled-Content Materials for water to the soil at the plant root Install wherever there is guttered Landscape Areas zones at the rate the soil can roof runoff and room for the cistern. absorb it, significantly reducing Description: water waste from overspray. Plastic or composite lumber makes Benefit: a very durable landscape edging, Application: Water catchment reduces the need broken concrete can make a very to use treated, drinkable water for Install low-flow drip, sub-surface attractive retaining wall or path, watering of lawns and gardens. drip, or low-flow sprinklers in place and ground glass cullet can be of standard sprinkler systems for used for walkways. all landscape applications. Base watering levels on moisture sensors

GREEN BUILDING TIP BAY-FRIENDLY GARDENING: FROM YOUR BACKYARD TO THE BAY

Create Healthy Landscapes, Build Healthy Soil, and Reduce Waste. In the Bay Area, how you care for your garden – from applying fertilizer to planting a lawn – affects the Bay. Bay-Friendly Gardening means simplifying garden care, preventing and GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING reusing plant waste, and using as few resources as possible. Bay-Friendly Gardening builds healthy soils, reduces waste and protects local ecosystems by working with nature. Start with some simple steps such as leaving your clippings on the lawn, composting your plant trimmings and planting native species in your garden. For a copy of the Bay- Friendly Gardening how-to guide, call the compost information hotline – 510-444-SOIL or visit www.stopwaste.org.

18 B. Foundation

1. Incorporate Recycled 2. Use Recycled-Content 3. Insulate Foundation Flyash in Concrete Aggregate Before Backfill

Description: Description: Description: Flyash is a byproduct of coal Concrete and rubble can be All foundations, including slab burning power plants and can be crushed and used for backfill and floors, can be insulated to minimize

an inexpensive substitute for a drainage purposes at the base of heat loss. MATERIALS & METHODS BUILDING GREEN portion of portland cement used in foundations. concrete. Application: Application: Insulate foundation with extruded Application: Use recycled materials for backfill. polystyrene insulation of at least Typically, 15-50% of cement can be R-4 (1” or greater). replaced with flyash in residential Benefit: concrete mixes, however, installers Using recycled instead of virgin Benefit: should know that it has slightly materials saves money and natural Insulating the foundation minimizes different curing characteristics resources. heat loss from the floors and than standard concrete. basement, reduces energy loss and therefore reduces utility bills. Benefit: Flyash increases the strength and durability of the concrete. Using flyash also reduces the amount of cement needed, thereby decreasing the overall environmental impacts of cement production. GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING

19 C. Structural Frame

1. Substitute Solid Sawn Lumber 2. Use Forest Stewardship 3. Use Wood I-Joists with Engineered Lumber Council (FSC) Certified Wood for Floors and Ceilings for Framing Description: Description: Solid sawn lumber in sizes of 2x10 Description: Wood I-joists are engineered to use or greater typically comes from old- FSC certification assures that the only the wood fiber necessary for growth forests. Engineered lumber forest from which the wood is the structural function required. products, on the other hand, come produced is managed in an They typically use oriented strand from small-diameter and fast growing environmentally and socially board (OSB) for the web and either plantation trees. These products responsible manner. laminated veneer lumber or solid include gluelams, laminated veneer sawn lumber for the chords (top lumber, wood I-joists, oriented Application: and bottom pieces). strand board, parallel strand lumber, Use FSC wood whenever new and other manufactured wood fiber wood framing is required. Certified Application: structural materials. framing materials and plywood are Replace solid sawn lumber with

GREEN BUILDING METHODS & MATERIALS available at many local suppliers. wood I-joists for floor and ceiling Application: Refer to the Green Building joists. Often they can be used at Engineered lumber should be used Materials Listing. 19.2” centers to save material. whenever structural members are Specify wood I joists with MDI replaced. They substitute for 2x10 Benefit: resin whenever possible. and 2x12 in most interior applica- FSC certification guarantees that tions such as the structural framing forests are managed in a way that Benefit: of floors, walls and roofs. will assure the long-term availability Wood I-joists use 50% less wood of precious woods while protecting fiber to perform the same structural Benefit: old-growth forests. function as similar sized solid Reducing demand for large dimen- sawn lumber and will never twist, sional lumber decreases pressure warp or split. They are stronger and to cut down old-growth forests. lighter than 2x10 or 2x12 and can Engineered lumber uses wood fiber span greater distances. MDI resin more efficiently than conventional reduces the amount of formaldehyde lumber, resulting in stronger and used in the adhesive and improves higher quality homes. indoor air quality.

Forest Stewardship Council Smart Wood and Scientific

GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING Certification Series

The FSC logo on a product provides These groups verify that forest consumers with an assurance that management is accomplished the wood they use comes from forests according to the FSC program. managed in an environmentally

and socially responsible manner. I-Joists use 50% less wood fiber than solid sawn lumber. 20 4. Use Web Floor Trusses 6. Use Finger-Jointed Studs for 7. Use Engineered Studs for Vertical Applications Vertical Applications Description: Web floor trusses use solid wood or Description: Description: laminated veneer lumber top and Finger-jointed studs use short Engineered studs are laminates, bottom chords that are connected pieces of 2x4 or 2x6 material like OSB and plywood, that are used

by wood or steel webbing for glued together to form standard in vertical structural applications. MATERIALS & METHODS BUILDING GREEN structural integrity. stud lengths. Application: Application: Application: Use for interior or exterior wall Use primarily for long-span floor joists. Use finger-jointed studs (graded applications except where pro- equivalent to full dimensional hibited by seismic codes. They Benefit: studs – 1997 UBC Standard, are particularly appropriate for tall Web trusses eliminate waste since Chapters 23 and 35) wherever cathedral wall applications. they are made to order. They reduce conventional studs are typically used, the pressure on old growth forests in vertical applications. Use of finger- Benefit: by replacing 2x10s and 2x12s jointed studs may require code Engineered studs are straighter traditionally used for floor joists. approval by your local jurisdiction, than conventional studs and will and may need to be submitted to not deform, twist, split or warp. the structural engineer of record They save wood by using small 5. Design Energy Heels on Roof for approval. laminated pieces. Trusses 6” or More Benefit: Description: Finger-jointed studs reduce the use Energy heels raise the height of of solid sawn wood studs. They are the truss at exterior wall top plates straighter and stronger than solid to accommodate increased insula- sawn studs, eliminating crooked tion at the perimeter of the house. walls and reducing material waste. GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING

Application: ventilation baffle Install where conventional trusses are used for an addition. An energy heel needs to be specified when Standard Heel Height less than 4” for a ordering roof trusses. The increased 4/12 pitch height may require modifications compressed to exterior soffit and trim details. insulation in this area

Benefit: The perimeter intersection between walls and roof framing is often an area of increased heat loss since conventional trusses reduce insula- Energy Heel tion to less than the required depth. Raising the heels allows for full insulation around the house, saving energy dollars.

Energy Heels on Trusses Allow More Insulation 21 8. Use Recycled-Content Steel Benefit: 11. Use Reclaimed Lumber for Studs for Interior Framing SIPs are more energy-efficient, provide Non-Structural Applications excellent soundproofing and reduce Description: Description: infiltration relative to frame construc- Steel studs can be either stand- tion. They can be erected quickly, High quality dimensional lumber in alone or provide a “c” channel over allowing for faster construction. They long lengths can often be salvaged wood stud pieces. Steel contains save wood by eliminating much of from old buildings that are being up to 95% recycled-content. Steel the conventional framing lumber. deconstructed or salvaged. contains high recycled-content, which typically increases in Application: proportion to the steel’s thickness. Use reclaimed lumber for non- structural applications, in place of Application: new material. For structural applica- For use in interior walls. tions, look for reclaimed lumber that is engineer-stamped and graded. Benefit: GREEN BUILDING METHODS & MATERIALS Steel reduces the need for wood Benefit: and provides strong interior walls. Reclaimed lumber from deconstructed buildings reduces resource consumption and landfill deposits. Reclaimed lumber is often of higher quality than new lumber. Construction using SIPs

10. Apply Advanced Framing 12. Use Oriented Strand Board Techniques (OSB) for Subfloor and Sheathing Steel Studs Description: Description: Advanced framing involves using OSB is manufactured from fast 9. Use Structural Insulated wood to its maximum structural growing farm trees. OSB comes in Panels (SIPs) potential. For a comprehensive sheets and is used for sheathing overview, visit www.nrdc.org. and subfloors. Description: SIPs are high-performance, load- Application: Application: bearing panels that consist of a core Advanced framing includes: framing Use OSB as an alternative to plywood of foam insulation with OSB on either exterior and interior walls 24" on center, for sheathing or subfloors. side. SIPS can be used for floors, 2 stud corners, ladder blocking at wall walls and roofs in residential build- partitions, stacking trusses over studs Benefit: ings. They are generally R-4 per inch. and other wood saving strategies. OSB is as strong as traditional plywood sheet material and is less GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING Application: Benefit: expensive. OSB reduces the need Use SIPs for structural exterior Advanced framing saves up to 20% for large diameter old-growth trees walls and roofs in place of stick on wood and framing labor costs and required for plywood. Some OSB framing. SIPs can be designed to makes the home more energy efficient uses lower formaldehyde content meet seismic Zone 4 requirements. by allowing for a higher percentage adhesives which contribute to a Note: It’s important to seal the joints of the wall to be insulated, reducing healthier indoor air quality. well, to avoid water penetration. frame conduction heat loss. 22 GREEN BUILDING METHODS & MATERIALS GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING 23 for children who play on or Application: Use non-chromium/arsenic treated wood for any application that specifies treated lumber including decking, fencing, and site furnishings. Benefit: ACQ and CBA use copper as its main component, and is a healthier alternative to lumber treated with chromium and arsenic, particularly near decks. 2. Use Treated Wood That Does Wood 2. Use Treated or Arsenic Not Contain Chromium Plates for Decking and Sill Description: (ACQ) Alkaline Copper Quaternary Preserve) (commonly sold as ACQ (CBA) and Copper Boron Azole Natural (commonly sold as Wolman treated woods Select) are alternative chromium – a that do not contain heavy metal – and arsenic, which are detrimental to human health. Application: Use FSC Certified lumber for all exterior decking applications or as structural deck members in conjunction with recycled-content decking. Benefit: FSC certification guarantees that forests are managed in a way that will assure the long-term availability of precious woods while preserving old-growth forests. B. Forest Stewardship Council B. Forest Stewardship Decking (FSC) Certified Wood Description: harvested Certified, sustainably forests lumber comes from managed in an environmentally manner. and socially responsible Recycled-Content Decking

and pressure treated pine. life of the products. They will

non-structural deck applications. D. Exterior Finish Exterior D. Benefit: The durability of these materials is greater than wood, providing cost savings to the homeowner over the do not not rot, crack or splinter, require staining and are not treated with potentially toxic chemicals. Using recycled-content decking also reduces pressure on old- growth forests. These products accept screws and nails, and cut like wood. Follow manufacturer recommendations closely regarding the amount of expansion that will occur when using plastic lumber. Use recycled-content decking in all Both products can be used in place of old-growth redwood, cedar Application: Description: of recycled- There are two types lumber content decking: plastic Recycled and composite lumber. only plastic lumber contains recycledresins, while plastic composite lumber is made by combining recycled wood fiber and recycled plastic resins that are then formed into deck boards. A. Recycled-Content Decking A. Recycled-Content 1. Use Sustainable Decking Materials Decking 1. Use Sustainable 3. Install House Wrap Under 4. Use Fiber-Cement Siding Siding Materials

Description: Description: House wrap protects the sheathing Fiber-cement siding is composed from moisture and allows vapor of cement, sand and cellulose from inside to escape and provides fibers. It is currently available an effective air infiltration barrier. available in shingles, planks or 4x8, 4x9, or 4x10 sheets. It is Application: usually textured to look like wood Install house wrap according to siding or stucco finish. manufacturer specifications over all sheathing before exterior finish Application: is installed. To provide an effective Replace conventional wood siding or drainage plane for water, it needs stucco finishes with fiber-cement

GREEN BUILDING METHODS & MATERIALS to be lapped and edges should be siding. This product can be cut with taped with manufacturer's tape, a carbide-tipped saw blade, snapper and all flashing elements deep to shears or with a guillotine cutter. Dust be properly installed in shingle protection and control are required fashion. Special products have when cutting with a circular saw. been developed for wrapping window and door openings and for Benefit: stucco applications. Fiber-cement siding is more durable than wood, termite resistant, Benefit: noncombustible and warranted to House wrap provides a continuous last 50 years. Using fiber-cement drainage plane that diverts water siding reduces the demand for away from the stud cavity and old-growth redwood or cedar siding. provides an effective air infiltration It may also reduce homeowner's barrier. It can also help reduce insurance rates due to fire resistance. moisture build up in stud cavities Fiber-Cement Siding by allowing water vapor to migrate through the material. GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING

24 GREEN BUILDING METHODS & MATERIALS GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING 25 .com) the model toilets with a new 1.6 gpf toilets with a new 1.6 Benefit: Ultra-Low-Flush toilets reduce the amount of water usage. 5. Install Chlorine Filter on Showerheads Description: filters on showerheads Water reduce chemicals and particulates from the water stream. Application: Install the water filter between the pipe and the existing showerhead. Benefit: Chlorine is absorbed 6 times faster through the skin than through the digestive system. It has been shown that chlorine absorption can have adverse health effects on some people and especially children. 4. Replace Toilets with Toilets 4. Replace Ultra-Low-Flush Models Description: toilets use 1.6 New high-efficiency or less. Some gpf (gallons per flush) flush toilets manufacturers offer dual Application: replace Whenever possible, existing – or less – models. Select a toilet from EBMUD (www.ebmud pre-tested list to ensure actually uses no more than 1.6 gpf and performs well. 1.5 gpm 2.0 gpm ≤ ≤ 2.5 gpm ≤ • Showerheads Limit showerheads to one fixture per shower • Bathroom faucets Benefit: Flow reducers can cut water usage of faucets and showers by as much as 40% with little noticeable effect. 3. Retrofit all Faucets and 3. Retrofit all Faucets Flow Reducers Showerheads with Description: Flow reducers fit into the aerator at the tip of the faucet and reduce the rate of water flow through the faucet. Low-flow showerheads replace standard showerheads. Application: Specify low-flow water conservation devices according to East Bay Municipal Utility District’s (EBMUD) recommendations: • Kitchen faucets Benefit: energy and Insulated pipes save not need to The water does water. water to a run as long to get hot reducing distant faucet, thereby hot water heating costs.

Insulate hot water pipes in all runs through unconditioned spaces: basements, crawl spaces, attics, etc. At a minimum, insulate both hot and cold pipes at least 6 feet from the hot water heater to prevent convective circulation from the heater through the pipes. Application: Insulating water pipes reduces heat loss or gain in the pipes while the water is standing. Description: 2. Insulate Hot and Pipes Cold Water Jacket insulation reduces heat loss by about 10% and more on older water heaters. Benefit: Application: water heaters. Install on existing hot make sure For new water heaters, void warranty. that installation will not Description: insulation is an heater jacket Water goes around the insulated wrapper that secured in place. hot water tank and is 1. Install Water Heater Jacket Heater Jacket Water 1. Install E. Plumbing E. 26

GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING GREEN BUILDING METHODS & MATERIALS . often arequickerandmorereliable. water needs.Tankless waterheaters use energyonlyforimmediatehot tank losses,whereastanklessheaters 15% oftheirenergythroughstanding Typical storagewaterheaterslose Benefit: electric tanklessheaters. typically havemorecapacitythan sized. Gastanklesswaterheaters thermostat andbeappropriately device shouldhaveavariable-set to thepointofuseaspossible.The Install tanklesswaterheaterasclose Application: provide hotwaterisvirtuallyunlimited. hot waterisstored.Theircapacityto rather thanhavingatankinwhich demand heaters)heatwaterasneeded Tankless waterheaters(flashoron- Description: Water Heaters 6. ConvertStoragetoTankless On-Demand Water CirculationPump Water Heater these contaminants. systems reducethehealththreatof across thecountry. Housefiltration contaminate publicwatersystems and microorganismsincreasingly Agricultural run-off,chemicalleaching Benefit: the house. the maindrinkingwaterfaucetsin between thecoldwaterlineand or toilets).Installfiltrationsystem water andplumbing(notforhosebibs Whole housefiltersarefordrinking Application: particulates andmicroorganisms. chlorine andmanyotherchemicals, or forthewhole under counteratindividualfixtures Water filtrationunitscanbeinstalled Description: at Faucets 7. InstallWater FiltrationUnits “On-demand” Switch house. Theyreduce Cold Hot fixture andcaneasilybeinstalled. is neededtosupplyhotwaterany from thewaterheater. Onlyonepump Install thepumpatfurthestfaucet Application: water reachesapre-settemperature. water heatertofixtures.Itstopswhen a pumptorapidlymovewaterfrom while waitingforittogethot.Ituses in seconds;withoutwastingwater pump cansendhotwatertofixtures An on-demandhotwatercirculation Description: Circulation Pump 8. InstallOn-DemandHotWater than onaverage. arrives tothefixture5timesfaster temperature foruse.Hotwater wasted untilitreachesthecorrect since waterdoesn’thavetobe Both waterandenergyaresaved Benefit: F. Electrical

1. Install Compact Fluorescent Benefit: Benefit: Light Bulbs (CFLs) Typical recessed fixtures are not Lighting controls reduce energy energy efficient because they use use by having the lights on for Description: incandescent lamps, generate signif- shorter periods of time. CFLs screw in like conventional icant heat, and allow conditioned bulbs but consume up to one- air to infiltrate out of the house. fourth of the electricity used by IC-AT fixtures eliminate the air 4. Install High Efficiency Ceiling MATERIALS & METHODS BUILDING GREEN incandescent bulbs to produce an leakage, while compact fluorescent Fans with CFLs equivalent amount of light. lamps stay cool and use less energy. Description: Application: Ceiling fans improve interior Install CFLs in place of standard 3. Install Lighting Controls comfort by circulating cold and incandescent bulbs. Choose a CFL warm air. They can be adjusted that is one-fourth the wattage of Description: to either draw warm air upward the incandescent bulb. Lighting controls use dimmers, during summer months or push sensors and timers to turn lights it downward during the winter. Benefit: off in unused areas or during times Compact fluorescent bulbs are a when lighting is not needed. Application: profitable investment, saving Preferable locations are bedrooms several times their purchase price Application: and living rooms where occupants through reduced electricity bills Install lighting controls either at spend time. Ceiling fans must be and fewer replacement bulbs specific locations or as a whole supported adequately between because they last eight times longer. house system. Lighting controls are ceiling joists. especially applicable for exterior uses. Dimmable CFLs are available Benefit: 2. Install Insulation Compatible at a premium. Ceiling fans can reduce the need Air-Tight (IC-AT) Recessed for air conditioning. Lighting Fixtures with Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING

Description: Conventional IC recessed fixtures ENERGY STAR® qualified compact fluorescent are not energy efficient because they lighting lasts up to eight times longer than incandes- use incandescent bulbs and they cent lighting. Save $22 to $65 in energy costs over the life of a compact fluorescent bulb. You'll replace allow the “chimney effect” to occur, an incandescent eight times to match the life in which the heat of the bulb and expectancy of a single compact fluorescent. fixture naturally draws the room’s conditioned air up through the fixture’s How do you choose the right compact holes and exhausts it into the attic fluorescent bulb? The following is a or ceiling/floor cavity. IC-AT fixtures general guide to assist you: are sealed, eliminating this effect Source: www.pge.com and also allowing for insulation to be blown on top to keep the heat in. Existing Incandescent Lamp Proposed ENERGY STAR® Savings over the Compact Fluorescent Bulb life of the bulb Application: 40 - 60 watts 11 - 15 watts $22 - $35 Use IC-AT fixtures with CFLs 75 watts 16 - 20 watts $43 + 90 - 100 watts 23 - 40 watts $52 + wherever recessed cans are specified. 27 G. Appliances

® 1. Install Energy Star Dishwasher Benefit: Benefit: Horizontal axis machines save resour- New, efficient refrigerators can Description: ces by using less water and energy. save over 10% of the total annual ® ENERGY STAR dishwashers use They use up to 40% less water and electrical bill. Check with your local water and energy more efficiently. 50% less energy than conventional utility company for rebate programs. top loading washers, translating into Application: lower energy and water bills for the ® Select ENERGY STAR dishwashers. resident. Manufacturers claim that 4. Install Built-In Recycling These dishwashers use an internal there is less wear and tear on clothes Center water heater to boost temperatures compared to the traditional agitator inside the dishwasher. For this (top loading) machines. Some of the Description: reason, water heaters can be newer model top loading washing Built-in recycling centers provide bins turned down to 120 degrees, machines offer water and energy for separated recyclables and food waste. saving water heating costs. savings as well. Application: Benefit: Horizontal Axis Washing Machines GREEN BUILDING METHODS & MATERIALS To be most effective and make recycling Water-efficient dishwashers are easy, recycling bins should be built also energy-efficient because most into kitchen cabinets, while stand alone energy consumed by dishwashers units in the garage will also be helpful. is used to heat water. ENERGY STAR® dishwashers use 25% less Benefit: energy than comparable models. A built-in recycling center offers an easy and convenient choice between the trash bin and the recycling bins 2. Install Washing Machine with rather than having to move between Water and Energy Conservation two separately located bins. Features 3. Install Energy Star® Refrigerator Built-In Recycling Center Description: Description: Horizontal axis machines load from Refrigerators and freezers are among the front, spinning clothes in and the largest users of electricity in out of the water to tumble them most homes. They can account for clean. Some newer model top up to 25% of household energy loading washing machines offer water use. New appliances are much and energy conservation features. more energy-efficient.

Application: Application: ® Select ENERGY STAR horizontal Use ENERGY STAR® rated refriger- axis and conservation model ators when replacing old units. washing machines. GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING

You will find the ENERGY STAR® label on products that exceed energy performance guidelines for energy efficiency. If all consumers, businesses, and organizations in the United States chose ENERGY STAR® products over the next decade, the national annual energy bill would be reduced by about $200 billion. For more information, visit www.energystar.gov. 28 H. Insulation

1. Upgrade Wall and Ceiling 2. Install Floor Insulation Over 3. Install Recycled-Content, Insulation to Exceed Crawl Space Fiberglass Insulation with Title 24 Requirements No Added Formaldehyde Description: Description: Insulate and seal floors over Description: Insulation in exterior walls and unconditioned crawl spaces with Many fiberglass insulation

ceilings can reduce the demand for R-19 or greater. products include recycled glass, MATERIALS & METHODS BUILDING GREEN air conditioning and heating and formaldehyde-free binders, no make homes more comfortable. Application: asphalt adhesives or colored dyes. Seal all penetrations through the Application: floor, including electrical, plumbing Application: A. Wall Insulation and ductwork, with expanding foam When using fiberglass insulation, Insulate walls of existing wood frame to prevent migration of air, moisture, specify recycled-content and no houses to the capacity of the wall and mold spores. Install insulation formaldehyde. This type of fiber- cavity, exceeding the Title 24 Standard with vapor barrier towards the floor glass insulation is installed exactly for your climate zone by 20%. Wall (warm side). Protect underside of as traditional fiberglass. cavities with existing insulation fiberglass with inexpensive sheath- can be blown full of new cellulose ing or wire mesh materials that act Benefit: or fiberglass to increase the density, as a barrier to vermin. Formaldehyde-free binders reduce thereby increasing the R-value. indoor air quality problems and Exterior walls can be wrapped with Benefit: insulation contains up to 30% a minimum of 1” (R-4) rigid foam Improves comfort by insulating the recycled glass. to increase R-value if total exterior floor, protects indoor air quality refinish is being performed. from moisture that can grow in damp crawl spaces. 4. Use Advanced Infiltration B. Ceiling Insulation Reduction Practices Increase ceiling insulation in existing structure to exceed Title Recycled-Content Fiberglass Insulation Description: with No Added Formaldehyde GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING 24 Standard for your climate zone Expanding foam and caulk are by 20%, when possible. Installation used to prevent infiltration where is generally intended to be in ceilings wood connections are made or below attic space, with appropriate framing is drilled to provide gable or soffit ventilation. If existing plumbing and electrical runs. cathedral or flat ceilings are already insulated, and re-roofing is being Application: done at the same time, add addi- These methods are especially tional rigid foam insulation on top important when fiberglass insulation of the existing roof sheathing. is installed, since fiberglass does Special products are available that little to reduce infiltration. Seal holes come pre-vented for new roofing. between floors and between stud cavities around wire runs. Caulk Benefit: top and bottom plates on all floors. Increased wall and ceiling insulation improves comfort, decreases heating Benefit: and cooling requirements, saves Reduction in infiltration increases money, and makes the home quieter. comfort and reduces energy bills.

29 5. Use Cellulose Insulation 6. Install Alternative Insulation Materials A. Walls B. Ceilings Description: Description: Description: Advanced insulation materials such Cellulose is a highly effective insu- Dry-blown or loose-fill cellulose is as spray foam, recycled cotton and lation made out of recycled news- treated with borates for fire and others are alternatives to conven- paper. Damp-spray cellulose wall insect resistance. Cellulose does not tional products. insulation is mixed with low-toxic contain formaldehyde, which is com- binders to adhere to itself and the mon in many fiberglass insulations. Application: stud and joist cavity surfaces. Varies per product type. Cotton Application: comes in both batt and loose fill Application: Spread cellulose over ceiling joists or while spray foam is spray applied This installation is intended for blow into tight cavities to increase and expands in place. new construction or total “gut” ceiling R-value. It is important to maintain attic or ceiling ventilation Benefit: GREEN BUILDING METHODS & MATERIALS renovation, where existing wall surfaces have been removed to the pathways, especially in cathedral Cotton uses recycled-content fabric studs. It is not cost effective in ceiling applications. Avoid excessive (such as blue jeans trimmings) other applications. Avoid damp blown-in cellulose behind netting as while spray foam provides superior blown cellulose during wet months it may make it difficult to achieve air infiltration resistance. Both and install drywall only after testing flat walls and ceilings with drywall. types have no added formaldehyde. for 25% (maximum) moisture content. Best to use 5/8" drywall only over Use boric acid treatment only; dry-blown cellulose insulation. Use avoid ammonium sulfate treated boric acid treatments only and avoid cellulose insulation. ammonium sulfate treated cellulose.

Benefit: Benefit: Spray insulation completely fills Cellulose insulation is fire-resistant, cavities and penetrations, thus manufactured with recycled materials, reducing air infiltration. The binder and has no added formaldehyde. in the insulation reduces the It also reduces air leakage and chance of settling. The cellulose is contributes to a more comfortable treated to retard insects and fire; and energy-efficient home. use boric acid treatment only. Using cellulose insulation makes the home quieter, more comfortable and reduces energy use. GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING

Loose-Fill Cellulose Insulation (Left), Damp-Spray Cellulose (Right). 30 I. Windows

1. Install Energy-Efficient Windows B. Low-Emissivity (Low-E) C. Low-Conductivity Frames Windows Windows play a big role in the energy Description: efficiency of homes. In the summer, Description: Most window frames and sashes they can allow unwanted heat into Low-E coatings, virtually unnoticeable are made of wood, vinyl, fiberglass the house, and in the winter, windows to the eye, are installed inside the or aluminum. Wood, vinyl and

can account for as much as 25% air space of a double-paned window. fiberglass generally insulate better MATERIALS & METHODS BUILDING GREEN of the heat loss. When replacing The low-E coatings help prevent than aluminum frames. windows, look for models with the heat from escaping through the following energy saving features: glass in winter and block heat from Application: entering the home during summer. Consider specifying wood windows A. Double-Paned Windows as standard window packages. Application: Description: Use low-E, double-paned windows Benefit: Double glazing insulates almost whenever windows are replaced. Wood windows create greater twice as well as single glazing. Check with your local utility com- comfort and better energy efficiency pany for rebate programs. and are an environmentally prefer- Application: able material. Replace single-paned windows with Benefit: double-paned windows whenever Low–E windows reflect heat, making possible. Check with your local the home more comfortable in cold utility company for rebate programs. weather and on hot summer days. The cost premium of 10-15% for Benefit: low-E glass typically pays for itself High quality double-paned windows in a few years. Low-E, double-paned make the whole house quieter and glass coating increases glass R-value more comfortable during all seasons, to 3 compared to R-1 for single- while saving energy and money. glazed windows. GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING

When replacing windows, use the following as a guide to selecting the most energy efficient windows for your climate zone: Albany Berkeley

Oakland Alameda ZONE 3

San Castro Dublin Leandro Valley Livermore San Lorenzo Pleasanton

In hot climates (Zone 12) Hayward choose windows with SHGC and Union City ZONE 12 U-factor values of .45 or lower. In moderate climates (Zone 3) ZONE 3 make sure that the U-factor Fremont Newark value is also .45 or lower.

31 2. Install Low Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) Window Film on Single-Glazing 5.

Description: 1. 6. Low solar heat gain coefficient window film reduces solar heat 7. gain through glass (particularly 2. 8. during late afternoon and evening hours) while still transmitting light and visibility. 3. 9.

Application: 4. Reflective film should only be used on single-glazed windows.

GREEN BUILDING METHODS & MATERIALS Look for a SHGC of less than the code requirement of 0.4. Consider using on all east or west facing 1. Look for this label as your assurance that 7. The NFRC “rating”, a numerical value, windows. this window has been independently rated represents the applicable energy performance using a procedure established by the NFRC. characteristic. Residential (or “AA”) and Benefit: Although other labels may be present, the Non-residential (or ”BB”) are NFRC size NFRC label is your best source of energy designations. Representative test sizes are Low SHGC window film reduces performance information. chosen for each product type and identical sizes overheating, improves comfort and are compared among different manufacturers. 2. U-factor is a measure of heat transferred can significantly lower the need for by the entire window (frame, sash and glass) 8. Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) is a additional cooling. either into or out of the building. A smaller measure of the solar energy entering the U-factor will provide a window which is more building though the entire window. A lower comfortable on cold days. Try to purchase a SHGV will reduce air conditioning costs and window with the lowest U-factor. provide more comfort on hot days.

3. Visible Transmittance (VT) is a measure of 9. Air Leakage (AL) is a measure of the the amount of visible light entering the window. amount of air that can pass through the Try to select a window with a high VT. It will cracks and joints in the window assembly. bring more natural day-light into your home. The lower the AL, the less air will pass through.

4. NFRC technical procedures by which the 10. Independent Certification and window was evaluated. Inspection Agency (IA) selected by the window manufacturer. All testing is done by an NFRC- 5. Name of the window manufacturer. accredited laboratory, and results are sent to the IA for evaluation. Both laboratories and 6. Manufacturer’s description of the manufacturers are inspected annually to labeled product. ensure that NFRC standards are maintained.

Source: www.NFRC.org GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING

32 J. Heating,Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC)

1. Use Duct Mastic on all 2. Install New Ductwork within 3. Vent Range Hood to the Duct Joints Conditioned Space Outside

Description: Description: Description: Leaks in the joints between Ducts in exterior walls, attics and Steams, gases, smoke and other ductwork allow conditioned air to in uninsulated spaces lose a combustion by-products (such as

escape into attics and basements. significant amount of heated or unburned hydrocarbons) can result MATERIALS & METHODS BUILDING GREEN Nationally, leaks at the joints cooled air capacity. from cooking. Stovetop range between ductwork connections hoods expel these by-products to allow, on average, 25% of the Application: the outside. conditioned air to escape into All ductwork for heating or cooling attics and basements. Duct tape should be run through conditioned Application: loses its effectiveness in 3-5 years. space inside the insulated envelope. Range hoods are particularly Mastic maintains the seal for decades. Ducts run through attic space can be important for gas stoves and can buried under new loose fill insulation. be installed most easily where Application: stoves are adjacent to exterior walls. Install mastic at every metal duct Benefit: joint and around the bends in elbows. Locating ducts in the conditioned Benefit: It is important for all ducts to be space significantly reduces energy Range hoods improve indoor air sealed. Professional testing for a loss and improves occupant comfort. quality, prevent overheating and duct leakage rate of under 10% can excess moisture build-up. be helpful in determining success.

Benefit: Leaky air ducts can cause negative pressure in the house which can allow carbon monoxide from gas water heaters and furnaces into the GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING home. Well-sealed ductwork also keeps the house more comfortable.

GREEN BUILDING TIP INSPECT AIR DUCTS REGULARLY

Ducts should be inspected, tested and sealed to ensure adequate airflow and eliminate loss of conditioned air. Ducts can leak as much as 20-30% of the air passing through them and can bring dust, unconditioned outdoor air and humidity into living spaces. To find out how leaky your ducts are have them professionally tested and seek to have them repaired so that you accomplish a leakage rate of under 10%. Thorough duct sealing can cut heating and cooling costs in many homes by 20%.

33 4. Clean all Ducts Before 6. Install Attic Ventilation 7. Install Whole House Fan Occupancy Systems Description: Description: Description: Whole house fans can cool a house Debris and dust from construction can Soffit/eave ventilation and without using an air conditioner by cause allergic reactions in occupants. gable/continuous ridge ventilation exhausting warm, indoor air and exhaust excess heat and moisture bringing in large volumes of fresh, Application: from attic spaces by natural cool, outdoor air at night. Cover or seal all ductwork in work convection. space during construction. Clean Application: or vacuum all ductwork before Application: The fan must be mounted in a occupancy to eliminate dust. Clean Install equal amounts of ventilation hallway ceiling on the top floor. An ducts before carpet is laid and between the soffits/eaves and the insulated, airtight seal is necessary finishes are applied. gables/ridges. The code requirement to prevent air leakage through the of 1 square foot of net free area of fan in winter. Fans should be sized Benefit:

GREEN BUILDING METHODS & MATERIALS venting for every 150 square feet of to produce between 4-5 air changes Children are especially sensitive to attic floor area should be doubled. per hour and should have two micro particulates like drywall dust. Keep insulation from blocking the speeds: low speed for continuous Cleaning and vacuuming ductwork soffit/eave vents. ventilation and high speed. reduces dust around the house after PLEASE NOTE: Keep a window occupancy. Benefit: open when fan is running to avoid Attics can reach up to 150º F on back drafting of carbon monoxide a hot summer day. That heat from gas appliance flues. 5. Install Solar Attic Fan migrates into the house, exchanging air with the living space. Eave and Benefit: Description: soffit venting and continuous ridge An average whole house fan uses Solar attic fans exhaust heat from venting increases comfort, reduces one-tenth the electricity of an air attic spaces in summer and clear air conditioning costs and reduces conditioning unit. Moving large condensation in the winter. problems associated with excess volumes of air can achieve indoor attic moisture. comfort at higher temperatures Application: without air conditioning. Solar attic fans are powered by the sun and are most effective when placed on the southern side of the roof and Air Flow with Whole-House Fan centered between the roof rafters. Avoid installing under overhanging trees or other structures creating shade.

Benefit: In the summer, attics can reach up GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING to 150ºF. That heat migrates into the home and increases the temperature inside. A solar attic fan removes much of this hot air and reduces the burden on the air conditioning system.

34 8. Install Sealed Combustion 9. Replace Wall-Mounted Electric 10. Install 13 SEER and 11 EER Furnaces and Hot Water Heaters and Gas Heaters with Through- or Higher Air Conditioning with a the-Wall Heat Pumps Thermostatic Expansion Valve (TXV) Description: Sealed combustion furnaces and Description: Description: water heaters duct fresh, outdoor Wall-mounted electric and gas Air conditioning equipment is one

air directly into a sealed jacket heating units are potential health of the greatest loads on power grids. MATERIALS & METHODS BUILDING GREEN around the combustion chamber and fire hazards. Gas units produce SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency eliminating the use of conditioned both unburned hydrocarbons and Ratio) measures cooling system house air for combustion. carbon monoxide, a deadly unnotice- efficiency at low temperatures while able gas. A wall heat pump has an EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) is a Application: exterior compressor and an interior high temperature performance Install in place of conventional air handler that blows conditioned rating. The higher the SEER/EER furnaces or hot water heaters. air throughout the home. number the less power is required to provide comfort. This assures that Benefit: Application: the air conditioning system operates Traditional natural gas furnaces and Replace any wall-mounted heater at high efficiency during the full hot water heaters use conditioned, with a heat pump. Replacement range of summer temperatures. indoor air for combustion. When with a heat pump is potentially TXV is a refrigerant regulation a negative pressure situation is expensive. Another option is to use device that can help ensure that the created in the home by exhaust the water heater as the heat source air conditioning system operates at fans, dryers or leaky ducts, carbon using fan coils in each room to maximum efficiency over a wide monoxide can be pulled into the distribute heat in the home. range of conditions. house from the combustion chamber and exhaust flue. Sealed Benefit: Application: furnaces and hot water heaters Eliminating wall-mounted electric Higher SEER (13 – 18 SEER) eliminate that condition, thereby and gas heaters results in greater and EER (11 or greater) units are improving indoor air quality and safety and more energy savings. installed like any other AC equip- GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING reducing the danger of carbon ment. Some AC equipment comes monoxide contamination. They also with a factory installed TXV and improve energy efficiency by not others accept a TXV that can be taking your home’s conditioned air bolted on. Zoned AC systems allow and sending it outdoors through 2 to 4 zones to be conditioned at the exhaust flues. different temperatures so only the spaces being used are cooled. These require thermostats in each zone.

Benefit: High SEER units save money and energy and reduce peak load problems for utilities. High EER systems not only save money and energy but offer more cooling when you need it most, on very hot days. Installing air conditioning systems with a TXV lowers utility bills and saves energy. 35 11. Install Air Conditioning with Benefit: Benefit: Non-HCFC Refrigerants A properly sized, high efficiency EPA certified stoves or fireplace furnace costs less to operate. It inserts reduce the amount of Description: saves natural resources, reduces pollutant particulate matter by R-22 is an HCFC refrigerant used in air emissions and helps create a 75-90% compared to a standard residential heating and cooling sys- cleaner environment. fireplace. A properly operating tems. R–22 contains chlorine which damper reduces drafts throughout is an ozone-destroying chemical. In the house when the fireplace is not 2010, under the Clean Air Act, HVAC 13. Retrofit Wood Burning in use. Airtight doors, when shut, manufacturers can no longer produce Fireplaces can reduce the heat taken from the new air conditioners using R-22. house as well as reduce drafts Description: when the fireplace is not in use. Application: The burning of wood in fireplaces Some new AC units already use is a major source of air pollution alternatives to R-22 refrigerant such during the winter months, generat- 14. Install Zoned, Hydronic,

GREEN BUILDING METHODS & MATERIALS as R-410A, as well as the trade brand ing up to one-third of the particulate Radiant Heating Puron and others. Additional care matter on cold evenings. In addition, should be taken when handling open fireplaces suck air out of the Description: refrigerants, always select a reputable house and extract more heat than Hydronic heating forces hot water dealer who employs service technicians they provide. Retrofitting wood through radiators located in different that have achieved Environmental burning fireplaces with airtight doors areas or zones throughout the Protection Agency (EPA) certification and working dampers reduces down house. It is typically installed as to handle refrigerants. drafting, heat loss and the amount baseboards or in floors. of oxygen drawn from the house for Benefit: combustion purposes. Application: Using alternatives to HCFC Use hydronic, radiant heating refrigerants reduces depletion of Application: instead of forced air heating. The the ozone layer in case of leakage Retrofit wood burning fireplaces system must be designed before during replacement. with EPA certified wood stoves or construction starts. fireplace inserts, pellet stoves or natural gas units. These units should Benefit: 12. Install 90% Annual Fuel have direct outside combustion air Hydronic heating is more comfort- Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) vented into the insert. If total able and saves energy by heating Furnace retrofit is not feasible, then replace only the zone that requires heat. old damper if it no longer seals the Description: flue due to mechanical failure, High efficiency furnaces convert rust or soot buildup in the chimney. gas to heat with greater efficiency. Retrofit sealed doors onto fireplaces. Outside air, needed for combustion, Application: should be brought in behind the GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING Replace conventional furnaces with doors. Some fireplaces provide for high efficiency models. Installing the controlled air intake from inside proper size of furnace for the home the house that can be shut down is just as important as its efficiency. when not in use. Check with your local utility company for rebate information.

36 15. Install High Efficiency Filter 16. Install Heat Recovery 17. Install Separate Ventilation Unit (HRV) Garage Exhaust Fan Description: High efficiency filters remove 70% Description: Description: or more of dust and particulates An HRV is a mechanical ventilation According to the U.S. from the air. system that recovers heat from the Environmental Protection Agency,

exhausting, stale, indoor air and an attached garage is the single MATERIALS & METHODS BUILDING GREEN Application: transfers it to the incoming, fresh, most significant contributor to Filters are installed in the return outdoor air. poor indoor air quality. Car exhaust air stream at the air handler, which contains many known carcinogens should be sized to handle the Application: and can migrate into living spaces reduced air pressure caused by the The unit should be designed into through doors and cracks in walls filter. Some units have an air con- the HVAC system to distribute the adjacent to the garage. ditioning setting for the fan that fresh air more evenly throughout will handle the retrofit filter. the home. Note: Use of this equipment Application: is particularly appropriate with Install exhaust fan on the opposite Benefit: blower door test results of less wall from the door to the house. It The EPA has identified micropar- than .35 Natural Air Changes per can be wired to an electric garage ticulates as a leading cause of Hour (NACH). door or put on a timer to run for respiratory discomfort. By removing 15 minutes after door has been these particles, the filter makes Benefit: opened or closed. Do not install the living space healthier. Heat recovery ventilators provide fan if water heater or gas furnace fresh, outdoor air while exhausting are located in garage. stale indoor air. They also save energy by recovering the heat lost Benefit: in the exhausting air and transfer An exhaust fan creates a healthier it to the incoming air. indoor environment by reducing the potential hazard of car exhaust GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING from entering the house.

Radiant Floor Heating

GREEN BUILDING TIP CHANGE FURNACE FILTERS OFTEN

Furnace filters capture large particles of dust, pollen, and other indoor pollutants preventing them from build-up on the workings of the system and from distributing throughout your home. The best option is to purchase high efficiency disposable filters with a MERV rating of between 6 and 12; greater than 12 will restrict your system’s air flow too much. Replace these filters as they become built-up with contaminants; generally every two months or as needed. If utilizing reusable, high efficiency electronic or electrostatic filters, remember to clean them often. 37 K. Renewable Energy and Roofing

1. Pre-Plumb for Solar Water Heating solar system can also supplement 3. Pre-Wire for Future use of a standard water heater. Photovoltaic (PV) Installation Description: Insulated copper pipes are installed Application: Description: from the attic to a hot water closet Provide sufficient south-facing roof Running wires from the roof to the or mechanical room for future solar area for collectors, and space in a electric service entrance/circuit installation. This option allows the hot water closet for the additional breaker panel can save costly homeowner to install an active solar hot water storage tank. installation of photovoltaic panels system at a later date if they desire. at a future date. Benefit: Application: Solar hot water systems can pay Application: Provide south-facing roof area for back in as little as seven years and Run two pair #10 THHN wire plus collectors and access for piping to reduce the use of gas or electricity #8 ground in conduit from the a mechanical room. This is primarily for water heating. south facing roof to a junction box applicable to homes that are being near the panel (don’t wire the panel). East and West facing GREEN BUILDING METHODS & MATERIALS extensively rehabilitated on the interior. The most cost-effective Solar Water Heating roofs can work if the South is time to install this pre-plumbing is unavailable or shaded for panels. during construction. Solar Benefit: Benefit: Collector Photovoltaic panels and systems Solar hot water pre-plumbing during will continue to drop in price the remodeling process can save over the next few years. money for the homeowner if, at Homebuyers may not be able to some point in the future, they want afford the system today but may to install a solar system. Hot be interested in the future when Cold the price comes down. Visit www.consumerenergycenter.org 2. Install Solar Water Heating for more information on rebates.

Description: Hot Water Solar water heating systems use solar Storage Tank panels to collect heat from the sun. The hot water is stored for use at a Heat later time. Water pre-heated by a Exchanger

GREEN BUILDING TIP CONSIDER THE BENEFITS OF INSTALLING PHOTOVOLTAIC (PV) PANELS

Reliability: Generate your own electricity using renewable resources. Your electric utility GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING can “store” and buy the extra electricity you generate or supply it if your system does not generate enough. Security: PV Panels provide a secure source of electricity. Environmentally Friendly: PVs are a clean, replenishable resource that do not contribute to global warming. Sustainability: Use PVs to help ensure our energy future by tapping into an “infinite” power supply. Contact the California Energy Commission at 800.555.7794 for information on cash rebates on eligible renewable energy electric-generating systems. 38 4. Install Photovoltaic (PV) System 5. Select Safe and Durable 6. Install Radiant Barrier Roofing Materials Description: Description: PV panels contain hundreds of Description: When radiant energy from the small cells that collect the sun’s 40-50 year asphalt composition, sun strikes the roof surface, it is energy and convert it into electricity. tile, slate, fiber-cement and metal converted to heat energy which

Excess electricity can be sent back are examples of safe and durable radiates downward into the attic MATERIALS & METHODS BUILDING GREEN into the utility grid for a credit on roofing materials. Avoid cedar and and the adjoining rooms. A radiant electric bills. The collected energy wood shake shingles. barrier reflects or blocks radiant can also be stored in large batteries heat and does not emit it to the to meet the needs of nighttime Application: cooler surfaces around it. Radiant energy requirements. Applicable anytime roofing material barrier sheathing is a roof sheathing is specified. material with a reflective layer Application: (film or foil) applied to the under- Typical PV installations include flat Benefit: side of the OSB. Another radiant roof, sloped roof, building integrated A durable and safe roof is cost barrier application is reflective film PV and ground mount. Items to effective and reduces landfill or foil that attaches to the rafters, consider when installing PV include: deposits. Some products may reflects radiant heat upwards and sunlight – minimum of 4 hours also reduce your homeowner does not emit it downward towards required during peak period (8 a.m. insurance rates. the attic and the home’s interior. to 4 p.m.) with no shade; orienta- tion – anything but North; angle – Application: flat to 60 degrees; adequate roof Photovoltaic Panel System Radiant barrier sheathing can be area-depending on type of PV used in place of conventional roof selected (monocrystal, polycrystal sheathing or apply reflective material or amorphous). (foil or paint) to the underside of rafters and decking. Benefit: GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING PV panels can be used as a Benefit: means to decrease reliance on Radiant barriers reduce heat conventional power plants that build-up in attic spaces by not contribute to air pollution. re-radiating heat from the roof to the attic and eventually to the interior rooms. They can prevent up to 97% of the sun’s radiant Installing Solar Water System Radiant Barrier Sheathing heat from entering the home and can bring attic temperatures down as much as 30 degrees on hot days, keeping the whole home cooler and reducing energy consumption for air conditioning.

39 L. Natural Heating and Cooling

1. Incorporate Passive is allowed into the space, where it The additional cooling demanded Solar Heating can be absorbed by thermal mass, by low-angle sun penetration of and be re-radiated as heat. Also west windows in late summer after- Description: consider shading devices on the west noons create the most significant Passive solar systems provide heat and east facing windows to protect summer peak utility costs. to the structure through south from morning and afternoon heat, facing windows in conjunction especially in hotter climates. Application: with internal thermal mass. Plant shade trees on the west and Benefit: south sides of the home to provide Application: Overhangs, awnings and trellises are shade and summer cooling. The The house must incorporate windows an integral part of making passive most important areas to shade are that face within 30 degrees of due solar heating and natural cooling windows and paved areas. Keep south and have the ability to store work. Removable/retractable fabric trees an appropriate distance from excess heat in massive elements awnings offer a low cost solution the home or utilities to avoid intro- such as a slab floor or stone fireplace. to reduce heat gain, lower energy duction of pests and root/branch bills, and make the home more intrusions as trees mature. GREEN BUILDING METHODS & MATERIALS GREEN BUILDING METHODS & MATERIALS Benefit: comfortable in the summer. Passive solar design can reduce Benefit: heating requirements by 30-50%, Planting shade trees can reduce saving energy and money. 3. Plant Deciduous Shade Trees summer air-conditioning costs on the West and South Sides by 25% to 40%. Trees provide numerous additional benefits to 2. Install Overhangs or Awnings Description: the environment including over South Facing Windows During summer months, the sun cleansing the air, creating habitats shines on the south and west sides for birds and play places for children Description: of the home causing the home to as well as adding aesthetic beauty Properly sized overhangs or awnings heat up which in turn makes air to the neighborhood. Through on south facing windows are important conditioners work their hardest. shade and evapotranspiration, components of passive solar heating Trees offer the best solution for trees can create a microclimate and natural cooling. Overhangs and keeping out low-angle sunlight from that is up to 15 degrees cooler awnings help keep the heat of the west and south windows in summer. than the surrounding area. sun from entering the home during summer, but allow heat to enter in the winter. These shade control devices can be oversized roof overhangs, wood trellises/arbors with deciduous plants, or adjustable or demountable awnings made of fabric or metal.

GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING Application: The overhang or awning design should keep out summer sun by shading the entire window during the hottest month(s) of the year. Size overhangs or awnings above south windows so that winter sunlight Awning and Trellises to Reduce Heat Gain 40 M. Indoor Air Quality / Finishes

1. Use Low/No VOC Paint 2. Use Low VOC, Water-Based 3. Use Low/No-VOC Adhesives Wood Finishes Description: Description: Most paint releases volatile organic Description: Unlike solvent-based adhesives compounds (VOCs), a major indoor Conventional solvent-based wood that off-gas toxic compounds for air pollutant, into the home. Once finishes can offgas for months, and months, low/no-VOC adhesives

outside, VOCs react with other can be harmful to children. Low reduce toxic gasses such as aro- MATERIALS & METHODS BUILDING GREEN pollutants, producing ground-level VOC finishes, such as water-borne matic hydrocarbons or solvents ozone that also affects human health. urethane and acrylic, are lower in that contribute to air pollution. Often low/no-VOC products are man- toxic compounds compared to ufactured without mercury or mercury conventional solvent-based finishes Application: compounds, or pigments of lead, while providing similar durability. Use low/no-VOC products in place cadmium, chromium, or their oxides. of standard adhesives for all Application: interior applications such as Application: Low VOC wood finishes can be installation of flooring, countertops, Paint with low/no-VOCs is available used in most applications where wall coverings, paneling and from most major manufacturers solvent-based finishes are typically tub/shower enclosures. and is applied like traditional paint used. If solvent-based wood finishes products. High washability should must be used, they should be left Benefit: be specified for bathrooms, to offgas for three to four weeks Low/No-VOC adhesives are often kitchens and children's bedrooms. prior to occupancy. stronger, emit fewer pollutants, Every finish and most colors are and reduce the potential harmful available in low/no-VOC paints. Benefit: impacts on the health of the Using low VOC wood finishes reduces occupants and installers. Benefit: offgassing into the home, improving Low/No-VOC paint reduces the indoor air quality, and reducing the emissions of VOCs into the formation of urban smog. home, improving indoor air quality GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING and reducing the formation of urban smog.

Low/No-VOC paint

GREEN BUILDING TIP CONTACT BAY AREA BUILD IT GREEN

Build It Green is a program designed to provide Bay Area homeowners, homebuyers, remodelers, and builders a trusted resource for information on Green Building and its various applications. A local effort with far reaching effects, the program is dedicated to creating healthier, more durable, and energy and resource-efficient homes that will provide Bay Area residents years of higher quality living. Visit www.build-green.org for more information on events, products, presentations and more.

41 Formaldehyde-Free Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) shelving, cabinets, trim and substrate for countertops.

Benefit: Elimination of engineered sheet goods containing urea formaldehyde reduces exposure to residents, 4. Use Salvaged Building 5. Use Engineered Sheet Goods particularly children, who are most Materials for Interior Finish with No Added Formaldehyde susceptible. Some boards made from agricultural waste are superior Description: Description: to wood-based particleboard in Salvaged building materials are Engineered sheet goods such as moisture resistance and structural selectively and carefully removed particleboard and medium density properties, and provides for the from buildings for reuse. Many fiberboard (MDF) typically use reuse of a former waste product. salvaged materials are superior to adhesives that contain urea

GREEN BUILDING METHODS & MATERIALS the products available today such formaldehyde, a suspected human as old-growth non-structural beams, carcinogen. The formaldehyde is 6. Use Exterior Grade Plywood flooring and interior trim. continuously released, referred to for Interior Uses as "offgassing", for years after Application: installation. Formaldehyde off- Description: Use salvaged building materials the gassing contributes to poor indoor air Exterior plywood uses phenolic same way conventional materials are quality. Better alternatives include resins that offgas one-tenth as used. Please note, salvaged painted MDF without formaldehyde binders much as interior plywood. Interior wood items often contain lead based as well as sheet goods made from plywood typically uses urea- paint. Use lead safe painting and agricultural waste, such as straw- formaldehyde glue which offgasses paint removal strategies identified based particleboard manufactured into the house. by the Alameda County Lead with non-formaldehyde binders. Poisoning Prevention Program – Application: www.aclppp.org/hazard.shtml. Application: Substitute interior plywood with Whenever possible, eliminate new exterior plywood for custom cabinets Benefit: particleboard and formaldehyde and shelving. Using salvaged building materials based MDF inside the home by using keeps valuable resources out of solid wood for stair treads, exterior Benefit: landfills, reduces pressures on the grade plywood (which uses the less Formaldehyde is a suspected landfills as well as offering the dangerous phenol formaldehyde), human carcinogen and should be homeowner inexpensive and MDF with formaldehyde-free avoided whenever possible. unique materials for the home. binders, or straw-based MDF for

GREEN BUILDING TIP SELECT LESS-TOXIC CLEANING SUPPLIES GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING High-quality, non-toxic and environmentally responsible cleaning products are readily available. Choose products that are non-toxic, ammonia and chlorine-free, as well as biodegradable. These cleaning products are as effective as conventional cleaners, without harsh chemicals that can lead to health problems and atmospheric ozone loss. For tips on how to make and use toxic-free household cleaners, call 1.877.STOPWASTE for a copy of Easy Recipes for A Healthy House. 42 7. Seal all Exposed FSC certified wood instead of Benefit: Particleboard or MDF clear, knot-free trim as this material Finger-jointed or recycled-content is typically harvested from non- trim is straighter and more stable Description: sustainable, old growth forests. than conventional clear wood, and Using non-toxic, low permeability paint uses materials more efficiently. or sealer to seal exposed particleboard Application:

or MDF will reduce the release of Use FSC certified materials in any MATERIALS & METHODS BUILDING GREEN harmful gasses and is the next best application that normally uses con- 10. Install Whole House Vacuum solution to elimination of particleboard. ventional stain-grade materials. System

Benefit: Application: Description: Whenever formaldehyde-based Sustainable forest certification assures Whole house vacuums exhaust MDF or particleboard is used, seal that the forest from which the trim is the dust to the outside rather than all exposed edges of cabinets, produced is managed in a way that collecting it in a bag that may not undersides of countertops, stairs, will assure the long-term availability filter the dust effectively. shelving, etc. with at least two coats of these precious woods while pro- of less-toxic, low permeability paint tecting ancient, old growth forests. Application: or sealer prior to installation. Whole house vacuum systems must be vented outdoors, not into Benefit: 9. Use Finger-Jointed or a garage, and not to any area Sealing all exposed particleboard Recycled-Content Trim where air may be taken back into reduces exposure of harmful emissions the house. to residents, particularly children, Description: who are most susceptible. Finger-jointed trim is manufactured Benefit: from short pieces of clear wood glued Whole house vacuums expel the together to create finished trim. dust outside the house whereas 8. Use Forest Stewardship recycled-content trim is made from most vacuum cleaners do not filter Council (FSC) Certified Material recycled polystyrene/plastics. the dust effectively and merely GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING for Interior Finish redistribute the dust that is most Application: harmful to the respiratory system. Description: Use finger-jointed or recycled- This can aggravate asthma and FSC certified materials (e.g. trim, content trim in any application other respiratory problems. doors, shelving) come from forests where trim is to be painted. that are managed in accordance with sustainable forest practices. It is particularly important to specify

GREEN BUILDING TIP PURCHASE VACUUM CLEANER WITH HEPA FILTER

If installing a whole house vacuum system is not feasible, consider purchasing a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters. It catches small dust particles that are typically blown around the house during vacuuming. The EPA has determined that indoor particulate dust is a significant health hazard. HEPA filters reduce exposure to these harmful particulates. Children, asthmatics, senior citizens and others with respiratory diseases can benefit from reduced dust in the living environment.

43 N. Flooring

1. Select Forest Stewardship 2. Use Rapidly Renewable Application: Council (FSC) Certified Flooring Materials Install recycled-content tiles wher- Wood Flooring ever conventional tiles are specified. Description:

Description: Bamboo and cork flooring are alter- Benefit: Certified wood flooring comes from natives to hardwood flooring. Bamboo Some recycled-content ceramic tile is forests that are managed in accor- is a fast growing grass that can be very dense which significantly reduces dance with sustainable forest practices. harvested in three to five years. the amount of moisture and stains that Certified wood flooring products Cork is a natural flooring material are absorbed into the tile, making it are available in a wide variety of that is obtained from the outer more durable and easier to maintain. domestic and exotic species. bark of the cork oak tree that is regenerated every 10 years. Application: 4. Install Natural Linoleum In Use FSC certified wood in place of Application: Place of Vinyl conventional hardwood flooring. Use these alternative flooring materials

GREEN BUILDING METHODS & MATERIALS in place of conventional hardwood. It Description: Benefit: is important to specify a durable finish. Natural linoleum is manufactured Sustainable forest certification assures from natural materials such as cork Benefit: that the forest from which the floor- and linseed oil. Unlike vinyl, linoleum ing is produced is managed in a way Fast growing, rapidly renewable does not contain petroleum-based that will assure the long-term avail- floor substitutes are attractive and products or chlorinated chemicals ability of these precious woods while reduce pressure on hardwood forests. such as PVC, which may be a protecting ancient, old-growth forests. Bamboo is as durable as wood; source of VOC offgassing. There is cork is naturally fire and moisture also concern of byproducts such as resistant as well as sound absorbing. cancer causing dioxins, which may be produced during the manufac- turing of vinyl. 3. Use Recycled-Content Ceramic Tile Application: Use natural linoleum in place of Description: vinyl flooring. Recycled-content ceramic tile can contain up to 70% recycled glass. Benefit: Originally developed for high traffic Linoleum is low-toxic, easy to repair, commercial conditions, recycled- durable, and stain resistant. Linoleum content tiles are very durable and can last up to 40 years whereas wear well in residential applications. vinyl lasts typically 7-10 years.

Bamboo Flooring GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING GREEN BUILDING TIP PLACE DOORMATS AT ALL EXTERIOR DOORS

Dust, dirt-borne contaminants, and chemicals such as fertilizer and pesticides are tracked into the house on shoes. Using a doormat, or preferably leaving shoes at the door, reduces this source of toxic contaminants. A doormat is an easy and inexpensive method to reduce toxic materials that would otherwise be brought into the home. 44 Ingredients of Natural Linoleum This Old House RE ULIGMTOS&MATERIALS & METHODS BUILDING GREEN Used with permission from

5. Use Exposed Concrete 6. Install Recycled-Content Carpet with Low-VOCs as Finished Floor

Description: Description: Benefit: For slab-on-grade additions, the Recycled-content carpet is made Recycled-content carpet saves concrete can be polished, finished from recycled plastic bottles, resources and diverts waste from with expansion joints in various recycled nylon/wool or recycled landfills. Approximately 40 two-liter patterns or stained with pigments to cotton. Recycled-content carpet soda bottles are recycled per square make an attractive finish floor. This does not differ in appearance or yard of carpeting. Recycled carpet approach is especially appropriate performance and the price is is often more resilient and colorfast for radiant, in-floor heating systems. comparable to conventional carpet. than carpet made from virgin fibers. Some recycled-content carpets Application: include agricultural by-products Use this approach for finished such as corn silk. Carpet tiles as basements or additions on slab well as broadloom are available. GREEN BUILDING GUIDELINES FOR HOME REMODELING construction. Finish must be The Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) designed and constructed when has a Green Label Indoor Air slab is being poured. Quality Test Program which labels the VOC content of carpeting. Benefit: When using the slab as a floor finish, Application: Look for carpets that meet it eliminates the need to use other Use recycled-content carpet in all or exceeds the CRI Green flooring materials. It is durable and applications where conventional Label requirements. easy to clean and can be used to carpet is specified. Choose carpet hold piping for active radiant floor that meets or exceeds the CRI heating or as a thermal mass for Green Label requirements. passive solar heating. Resource: www.carpet-rug.com

GREEN BUILDING TIP MINIMIZING OFFGASSING FROM ADHESIVES

Use low VOC, water-based sealants and low/no solvent adhesives when installing or refinishing flooring. When installing laminate flooring, use glueless installation to minimize offgassing from adhesives. 45