2010 EVHA Winners
Check out the winners of the 2010 EnergyValue Housing Award.
A complete list of all EVHA winners is available,
sorted by year.
Category: Affordable
Climate: Moderate
Location: Chino Valley, Arizona
Square Footage: 1,207 s.f.
Construction cost: $97 per s.f
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EVHA judges were in awe of Yavapai College Residential Building Technology
Program's submittal that went "above and beyond in almost every aspect of
design and construction." By taking the utmost care with construction
details—which are extensively inspected with multiple checklists throughout the
construction process—the home achieved an exceptionally low air leakage rate.
The program starts from the beginning with "very good site and building design
in accordance with the site conditions" that includes considerable energy
analyses conducted by students as a learning tool. "They even chose different
glazing for the south-facing windows... a great design element," proclaimed one
judge. The school not only uses the design and construction process for its
students' education, but its work goes beyond the classroom as it conducts
extensive outreach to the community.
Energy Features
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Foundation:
Slab with R-10 underslab insulation and R-21 insulating concrete form stemwall
-
Wall Construction:
2x6 at 24" o.c.
-
Wall Insulation:
R-20.4 spray cellulose in cavity + R-10 XPS exterior foam
-
Rim Joist Insulation:
N/A
-
Roof Construction:
Trusses at 24" o.c.
-
Ceiling Insulation:
R-34 spray foam in unvented attic
-
Windows:
All windows low-e, gas-filled; N,E,W windows: U-0.3, SHGC 0.23; S windows:
U-0.34, SHGC 0.31
-
HVAC:
19 SEER, 9.0 HSPF heat pump; Variable speed Heat Recovery Ventilation System
-
Ducts:
All in conditioned space; Minimized duct design (supply registers at interior
walls)
-
Water Heating:
40 s.f. solar thermal collector with centrally-located 80-gallon storage tank
(EF 1.5); All faucets within 20 ft. of tank
-
Lighting:
Mix of ENERGY STAR fixtures, compact fluorescent lamps, and LEDs
-
Appliances:
ENERGY STAR refrigerator and dishwasher
-
On-Site Energy Generation:
4.6 kW photovoltaic system; Solar water heating; Window selection for passive
solar heat gain
-
Duct Leakage Test:
27 cfm total at 25 Pa; 0 cfm to exterior
-
Blower Door Test:
55 cfm at 50 Pa; 0.2 ACH50
-
HERS Index:
-3 (with PV system)
-
Energy/Green Building Programs: NAHB Model Home
Guidelines, USGBC LEED-H, environments for Living, Energy Star, DOE Builders
Challenge qualified house
Category: Affordable
Climate: Moderate
Location: Rio Rancho, New Mexico
Square Footage: 1,666 s.f.
Construction cost: $49 per s.f
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Production builder Artistic Homes employed a "well thought out design process
incorporating all members of the team" to build this net-zero energy home at an
affordable price point. Energy efficiency and cost effectiveness are central to
the builder's design process. According to the judges, Artistic Homes has a
"great approach to integrated design" through which it educates subcontractors,
provides oversight throughout the construction process, has a mechanical
engineer commission its homes, and seeks out third-party verifications that
homes meet the energy-efficiency goals set during the design phase. To quote
one EVHA judge, "[Artistic Homes] demonstrates a true commitment to systems
engineering and communicates effectively with homebuyers as well as other
building professionals."
Energy Features
-
Foundation:
Slab on grade with R-10 underslab and R-5 slab edge insulation
-
Wall Construction:
2x6 wood frame
-
Wall Insulation:
R-21 blown fiberglass
-
Rim Joist Insulation:
N/A
-
Roof Construction:
Trusses at 24" o.c.
-
Ceiling Insulation:
R-50 blown fiberglass
-
Windows:
Low-e, gas-filled; U-0.31, SHGC 0.31
-
HVAC:
15 SEER, 9.0 HSPF heat pump; Heat recovery ventilation
-
Ducts:
All in conditioned space
-
Water Heating:
80 s.f. solar thermal collector with 80-gallon storage tank; Electric auxiliary
-
Lighting:
All ENERGY STAR and compact fluorescent lamps throughout
-
Appliances:
ENERGY STAR dishwasher
-
On-Site Energy Generation:
4.62 kW photovoltaic system; Solar water heating
-
Duct Leakage Test:
50 cfm total at 25 Pa; 0 cfm to exterior
-
Blower Door Test:
400 cfm at 50 Pa; 1.8 ACH50
-
HERS Index:
51 without PV; 0 with PV
-
Energy/Green Building Programs: DOE's Building
America, LEED-H, Energy Star, 2006 IECC Certified Home, DOE Builders Challenge
qualified house
Category: Custom
Climate: Moderate
Location: Limerick, Pennsylvania
Square Footage: 4,142 s.f.
Construction cost: $229 per s.f.
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According to the EVHA judges, "Energy efficiency is clearly very important to
this builder - it's a constant theme in all aspects of the process. From design
to construction, there are elements of sustainability. The company only works
within a small radius to minimize its carbon footprint, uses a portable solar
power generator for construction site electricity, and builds very efficient
houses." This house, with a HERS Index of 25, demonstrates "solid performance."
Yet the builder is clearly committed to ongoing education or improving the
performance of future homes. The company also did an "admirable job" of
maintaining and taking advantage of the site's natural features, especially in
keeping existing trees for shading.
Energy Features
-
Foundation:
Frost-protected shallow foundation + basement; R-12.5 rigid foam + R-19
fiberglass batt basement wall insulation
-
Wall Construction:
Structural insulated panels
-
Wall Insulation:
R-27 SIPs
-
Rim Joist Insulation:
Spray foam
-
Roof Construction:
R-43 and R-53 Structural insulated panels
-
Ceiling Insulation:
Fiberglass batt at ceiling
-
Windows:
Low-e, gas-filled; U-0.32, SHGC 0.27
-
HVAC:
Geothermal heat pump; 27 EER, 4.5 COP; Energy recovery ventilation
-
Ducts:
All in conditioned space
-
Water Heating:
Desuperheater and 84 EF tankless gas auxiliary
-
Lighting:
22% ENERGY STAR fixtures; 78% compact fluorescent bulbs
-
Appliances:
ENERGY STAR refrigerator, dishwasher, clothes washer
-
On-Site Energy Generation:
5.04 kW PV system
-
Duct Leakage Test:
20 cfm at 25 PA to exterior
-
Blower Door Test:
997 cfm at 50 Pa; 1.4 ACH50
-
HERS Index:
25 (including PV)
-
Energy/Green Building Programs: LEED-H, Energy
Star, DOE Builders Challenge qualified house
Category: Custom
Climate: Hot
Location: Cleburne, Texas
Square Footage: 2,438 s.f.
Construction cost: $169 per s.f.
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As a custom builder, Ferrier Custom Homes could be content to focus on superior
efficiency and put marketing efforts on a back burner. After all, they are
sought out by prospective clients because of their reputation for
high-performance homes. Instead, according to the EVHA judges, "Ferrier
demonstrates a good understanding of what it takes to build appropriately in a
hot climate, and does an exceptional job getting the word out to the public
about the benefits of energy-efficient home building." The homeowner's manual
for this custom home was noted as "one of the most professional" that one EVHA
judge had ever seen. The judges noted, "Ferrier Custom Homes has truly
systematized the whole idea of green building."
Energy Features
-
Foundation:
Uninsulated slab on grade
-
Wall Construction:
Structural insulated panels.
-
Wall Insulation:
R-19 SIPs
-
Rim Joist Insulation:
N/A
-
Roof Construction:
Structural insulated panels
-
Ceiling Insulation:
R-40 SIPs; Radiant barrier
-
Windows:
Low-e, gas-filled vinyl; U-0.27, SHGC 0.19
-
HVAC:
19 SEER, 8.2 HSPF heat pump; Energy Recovery Ventilation system; Multizone
system
-
Ducts:
All in conditioned space
-
Water Heating:
Two electric tankless water heaters
-
Lighting:
37% ENERGY STAR fixtures; 51% compact fluorescent lamps; Advanced lighting
controls
-
Appliances:
ENERGY STAR refrigerator and dishwasher
-
On-Site Energy Generation:
None
-
Duct Leakage Test: 20 cfm at 25 Pa total;
0 cfm to exterior
-
Blower Door Test:
784 cfm at 50 Pa; 1.8 ACH50
-
HERS Index:
47
-
Energy/Green Building Programs: NAHB Green, Energy
Star, Green Built Texas, LEED-H, DOE Builders Challenge qualified house
Category: Affordable
Climate: Moderate
Location: Portland, Oregon
Square Footage: 1,561 s.f.
Construction cost: $98 per s.f
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Energy is a clear priority for this affordable builder that "did a great job of
working within their substantial constraints," as one EVHA judge noted. The
judges were impressed with this organization's creativity in maximizing
daylighting and passive solar heat gain. "They had a wrongly oriented lot and
cut it into two rightly oriented lots! The passive solar and daylighting
elements were very well integrated." The judges found the submittal to be
"excellent across the board." Not only was the home technically sound, but the
builder demonstrated superior marketing and customer relations. The unique
nature of the project—built with a volunteer labor force as part of the Habitat
for Humanity business model—helped the project garner significant local press
coverage where energy efficiency was always the centerpiece.
Energy Features
-
Foundation:
Uninsulated slab on grade
-
Wall Construction:
Structural Insulated Panels
-
Wall Insulation:
R-19 SIPs
-
Rim Joist Insulation:
N/A
-
Roof Construction:
Structural Insulated Panels
-
Ceiling Insulation:
R-40 SIPs; Radiant barrier
-
Windows:
Low-e, gas-filled vinyl; U-0.27, SHGC 0.19
-
HVAC:
19 SEER, 8.2 HSPF heat pump; Energy Recovery Ventilation system; Multizone
system
-
Ducts:
All in conditioned space
-
Water Heating:
Two electric tankless water heaters; PEX manifold distribution
-
Lighting:
37% ENERGY STAR fixtures; 51% compact fluorescent lamps; Advanced lighting
controls
-
Appliances:
ENERGY STAR refrigerator and dishwasher
-
On-Site Energy Generation:
None
-
Duct Leakage Test:
25 cfm at 25 Pa total; 0 cfm to exterior
-
Blower Door Test:
784 cfm at 50 Pa; 1.8 ACH50
-
HERS Index:
47
-
Energy/Green Building Programs: NAHB Green, Energy
Star, Green Built Texas, LEED-H, DOE Builders Challenge qualified house
Category: Production
Climate: Cold
Location: Hartford, Connecticut
Square Footage: 3,128 s.f.
Construction cost: $127 per s.f.
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Nelson Construction had a "great deal of focus on the value of energy efficiency
before, during, and after the sale of the home." This focus started by
optimizing the efficiency of a traditional production home design through solar
orientation and a systematic design process—and continued by applying this
optimization to the entire neighborhood of 10 homes. "The company demonstrated
a very strong commitment to energy efficiency," the EVHA judges said. "They had
an excellent outline of criteria and they clearly demonstrated how those
criteria informed the design and selection of materials." Careful parametric
analyses performed during the design phase resulted in only a very small
increase in sales price—3% excluding PV—due to the home's efficiency features.
Energy Features
-
Foundation:
Basement with 2" XPS R-10 sub-slab and exterior poured wall insulation
-
Wall Construction:
2x6
-
Wall Insulation:
R-19 spray cellulose + R-12 exterior polyisocyanurate foam sheathing
-
Rim Joist Insulation:
R-36 polyurethane foam
-
Roof Construction:
Rafters
-
Ceiling Insulation:
R-50 blown cellulose
-
Windows:
Low-e, gas-filled; U-0.32, SHGC 0.27
-
HVAC:
93 AFUE furnace; 14 SEER air conditioner
-
Ducts:
All in conditioned space; Minimized duct design with registers at interior
walls
-
Water Heating:
82 EF tankless gas water heater
-
Lighting:
100% ENERGY STAR fixtures and compact fluorescent lamps
-
Appliances:
ENERGY STAR refrigerator and dishwasher
-
On-Site Energy Generation:
7 kW photovoltaic system
-
Duct Leakage Test:
360 cfm total at 25 Pa; 40 cfm to exterior at 25 Pa
-
Blower Door Test:
1,544 cfm at 50 Pa; 2.48 ACH50
-
HERS Index:
46 (without PV); 31 (with PV)
-
Energy/Green Building Programs: NAHB Green
Building, Building America, Energy Star, DOE Builders Challenge qualified house
Category: Custom
Climate: Hot
Location: San Antonio, Texas
Square Footage: 2,046 s.f.
Construction cost: $288 per s.f.
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Working for homeowners who placed energy efficiency at the top of their goals
and were willing to adapt to living "without instant mechanical remedies" gave
Sierra Homes and its architect the freedom to design a unique passive solar,
off-grid home that includes no mechanical cooling system and uses only a wood
stove for heating. According to the EVHA judges, "This project truly represents
thought leadership and the benefits of what happens when the client, architect,
and builder collaborate well. Sierra Homes clearly demonstrates a commitment to
responsible building … and a personal commitment to building science that is
truly unusual."
Energy Features
-
Foundation:
Uninsulated slab on grade
-
Wall Construction:
Insulating concrete form
-
Wall Insulation:
R-22 ICF plus R-23 spray foam cavity insulation
-
Rim Joist Insulation:
N/A
-
Roof Construction:
Rafter construction
-
Ceiling Insulation:
R-21 spray foam at roofline
-
Windows:
Low-e, gas-filled; U-0.32, SHGC 0.29
-
HVAC:
No central HVAC system; 83.5 AFUE wood stove; Operable skylight in tower for
natural cooling
-
Ducts:
None
-
Water Heating:
80 s.f. solar thermal collector with 80 gallon storage tank (SEF 5.7)
-
Lighting:
98% ENERGY STAR fixtures
-
Appliances:
ENERGY STAR refrigerator and clothes washer; Wood-fired oven and range
-
On-Site Energy Generation:
3.1 kW photovoltaic system; Solar water heating; Off-grid home; Passive heating
and cooling design
-
Duct Leakage Test:
N/A
-
Blower Door Test:
989 cfm at 50 Pa; 2.2 ACH50
-
HERS Index:
56 (without PV); 35 (with PV)
-
Energy/Green Building Programs: Energy Star,
LEED-H, Austin Energy Green Building, DOE Builders Challenge qualified house
Category: Custom
Climate: Cold
Location: Whitefish, Montana
Square Footage: 3,554 s.f.
Construction cost: $183 per s.f.
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Bridgewater Innovative Builders is "strongly committed to energy efficiency and
high performance" in its homes, and has a quality system that integrally
connects design details with construction. Effective construction details for
energy and moisture management, combined with extreme care during installation
of these details, has led to "exceptional air leakage control." As a sole
proprietor of a small company, the owner, Mark Van Everen, keeps closely
connected through design and construction. Judges were impressed by the
company's homeowner's manual, which they noted was thorough and clearly
involved a great deal of thought and effort.
Energy Features
-
Foundation:
R-24 Insulating Concrete Form walls with R-10 underslab insulation
-
Wall Construction:
2x6 at 24" o.c.
-
Wall Insulation:
R-23 blown fiberglass + R-5 polyiso foam
-
Rim Joist Insulation:
R-22 urethane foam
-
Roof Construction:
Structural Insulated Panels
-
Ceiling Insulation:
R-40 SIPs
-
Windows:
Low-e; U-0.35, SHGC 0.29
-
HVAC:
18 EER, 4.1 COP geothermal heat pump; Heat recovery ventilation system
-
Ducts:
All in conditioned space
-
Water Heating:
Desuperheater + 0.91 EF electric auxiliary; PEX manifold distribution
-
Lighting:
84% ENERGY STAR, compact fluorescent, and LED lighting
-
Appliances:
ENERGY STAR refrigerator, dishwasher, clothes washer
-
On-Site Energy Generation:
None
-
Duct Leakage Test:
220 cfm total at 25 Pa; 0 cfm to exterior
-
Blower Door Test:
318 cfm at 50 Pa; 0.7 ACH50
-
HERS Index:
40
-
Energy/Green Building Programs: NAHB Green
Building Certified Builder, Northwest Homes Energy Star, DOE Builders Challenge
qualified house
Category: Custom
Climate: Moderate
Location: Mebane, North Carolina
Square Footage: 2,498 s.f.
Construction cost: $158 per s.f.
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Although Chandler Design-Build is a small custom builder, the company has
tremendous influence on other builders in the region. As an active participant
in the local green building community, the company conducts seminars for local
real estate professionals and other builders and provides extensive training
for its subcontractors. Its techniques have become so well known that their
HVAC and solar thermal contractors get requests for a "Chandler-style" system.
To maintain control over HVAC design, the company uses an independent engineer
to design HVAC systems rather than relying on the HVAC contractor. As the EVHA
judges put it, "[Chandler Design-Build] nicely integrates systems and builds to
a higher standard."
Energy Features
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Foundation:
R-23 ICF basement with 2" EPS underslab insulation
-
Wall Construction:
2x6 and 2x4 double wall system with 2½" airspace
-
Wall Insulation:
R-46 spray fiberglass insulation
-
Rim Joist Insulation:
Open cell spray foam insulation
-
Roof Construction:
Trusses at 24" o.c.
-
Ceiling Insulation:
Unvented attic with R-30 open cell spray foam at roofline
-
Windows:
Low-e, gas-filled; U-0.30, SHGC 0.30
-
HVAC:
Solar preheat and 95 AFUE gas furnace auxiliary with radiant floor
distribution; 15 SEER air conditioner; Timer-controlled exhaust ventilation
-
Ducts:
All in conditioned space
-
Water Heating:
96 s.f. solar thermal collector with 0.95 EF tankless gas auxiliary
-
Lighting:
Mostly CFLs
-
Appliances:
ENERGY STAR refrigerator and dishwasher
-
On-Site Energy Generation:
Solar water heating
-
Duct Leakage Test:
74 cfm total at 25 Pa; 0 cfm to exterior
-
Blower Door Test:
847 cfm at 50 Pa; 1.9 ACH50
-
HERS Index:
48
-
Energy/Green Building Programs: Energy Star, GHBT
HBA-DOC Green, NAHB Green, USAGBC LEED-H, DOE Builders Challenge qualified
house
Category: Affordable
Climate: Cold
Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
Square Footage: 1,408 s.f.
Construction cost: $79 per s.f.
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Community Housing Partners demonstrated an "exceptional commitment to enabling
moderate income homeowners to purchase an energy-efficient and sustainable
home," according to the EVHA judges. That commitment is not only to the homes
they build, but to educating staff, customers, and the general public as well.
The judges noted the company's "excellent educational efforts regarding the
value of energy efficiency and practical ways to achieve it." These educational
tactics include a "very good homeowners' manual that offers concrete ways to
save energy and use environmentally friendly products around the home,"
homeowner awareness classes, open houses, employee training, and national
educational presentations.
Energy Features
-
Foundation:
Slab on grade with R-10 subslab, R-5 slab edge insulation
-
Wall Construction:
2x6; Insulated headers
-
Wall Insulation:
R-19 blown cellulose
-
Rim Joist Insulation:
Spray foam air sealing + R-13 fiberglass batt
-
Roof Construction:
Trusses at 24" o.c.
-
Ceiling Insulation:
R-38 blown cellulose
-
Windows:
Low-e; U-0.34, SHGC G0.35
-
HVAC:
15 SEER, 9.2 HSPF heat pump; Central fan integrated ventilation
-
Ducts:
75% in conditioned space
-
Water Heating:
47 s.f. solar thermal collector with 80-gallon storage; Electric auxiliary
-
Lighting:
100% ENERGY STAR fixtures and compact fluorescent lamps
-
Appliances:
ENERGY STAR refrigerator, dishwasher, and clothes washer
-
On-Site Energy Generation:
None
-
Duct Leakage Test:
117 cfm at 25 Pa; 60 cfm to exterior at 25 Pa
-
Blower Door Test:
780 cfm at 50 Pa; 4.2 ACH50
-
HERS Index:
68
-
Energy/Green Building Programs: Energy Star,
EarthCraft, DOE Builders Challenge qualified house
Category: Custom
Climate: Moderate
Location: Coupeville, Washington
Square Footage: 2,966 s.f.
Construction cost: $101 per s.f.
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By employing "admirable" control over the design and construction process and
"proper and thorough involvement during the planning stage," Clifton View Homes
was able to achieve a very good HERS index for this home. "They obviously put
significant effort into managing the process," according to one EVHA judge. The
use of construction checklists helps this builder ensure design features are
installed as intended. In terms of outreach, the builder scored very well in
marketing, and went above and beyond by being not only a participant in, but
also an organizer and proponent of energy and green building programs.
Energy Features
-
Foundation:
Basement R-20 foam insulation and R-21 fiberglass batt in framed wall
-
Wall Construction:
Structural Insulated Panels
-
Wall Insulation:
R-25 SIPs
-
Rim Joist Insulation:
2" spray foam + R38 fiberglass batt
-
Roof Construction:
Structural Insulated Panels (vaulted ceilings) and raised-heel trusses (flat
ceilings)
-
Ceiling Insulation:
R-38 SIPs (vaulted ceilings); R-50 blown cellulose (flat ceiling)
-
Windows:
Low-e, gas-filled; U-0.29, SHGC 0.31
-
HVAC:
15 EER, 4.4 COP ductless mini-split geothermal heat pump; Multizone radiant
distribution; Whole-house mechanical ventilation
-
Ducts:
N/A
-
Water Heating:
Desuperheater + geothermal heat pump (2.97 EF); PEX manifold distribution
-
Lighting:
50% ENERGY STAR fixtures; 50% compact fluorescent lamps; Advanced lighting
controls
-
Appliances:
ENERGY STAR refrigerator, clothes washer, dishwasher
-
On-Site Energy Generation:
None
-
Duct Leakage Test:
N/A
-
Blower Door Test:
850 cfm at 50 Pa; 1.8 ACH50
-
HERS Index:
41
-
Energy/Green Building Programs: SICBA Built Green,
Energy Star, DOE Builders Challenge qualified house
Category: Custom
Climate: Cold
Location: Dexter, Michigan
Square Footage: 2,260 s.f.
Construction cost: $120 per s.f.
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Fireside Homes, according to the EVHA judges, "Appears to be doing everything it
can (that is economically feasible) to design, build, and market an excellent
home." The company's attention to detail in site planning, pre-construction
energy analyses, and the construction process resulted in an exceptionally
tight home and a noteworthy HERS index. The builder systematically incorporated
a variety of energy-efficient technologies—ICFs, SIPs, a geothermal heat pump,
heat recovery ventilation, spray foam insulation, and high efficiency
lighting—into a single, high-performance package.
Energy Features
-
Foundation:
R-25 Insulating Concrete Forms + R-10 underslab insulation
-
Wall Construction:
Structural Insulated Panels
-
Wall Insulation:
R-24 SIPs
-
Rim Joist Insulation:
R-30 open cell spray foam
-
Roof Construction:
Trusses at 24" o.c.
-
Ceiling Insulation:
R-58 blown cellulose
-
Windows:
Low-e, gas-filled; U-0.30, SHGC 0.34
-
HVAC:
28.6 EER, 4.6 COP geothermal heat pump; Heat recovery ventilation
-
Ducts:
All in conditioned space
-
Water Heating:
50-gallon, 93 EF electric
-
Lighting:
100% ENERGY STAR fixtures and compact fluorescent lamps
-
Appliances:
ENERGY STAR refrigerator and dishwasher
-
On-Site Energy Generation:
None
-
Duct Leakage Test:
0 cfm total at 25 Pa; 0 cfm to exterior at 25 Pa
-
Blower Door Test:
150 cfm at 50 Pa; 0.50 ACH50
-
HERS Index:
50
-
Energy/Green Building Programs: Energy Star, Green
Built Michigan, LEED-H (platinum) DOE Builders Challenge qualified house
Category: Custom
Climate: Cold
Location: South Jordan, Utah
Square Footage: 2,670 s.f.
Construction cost: $95 per s.f.
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In this research and demonstration project by production builder Gold Medallion
homes, the company has, according to the EVHA judges, created an "extremely
energy-efficient home with carefully engineered design and close attention to
detail." In keeping with its longstanding commitment to designing and building
high-performance homes, the company embarked on this prototype project while
keeping energy efficiency central to its goals and integral to the design,
construction, and marketing of the home. The result, according to the EVHA
judges, is a "straightforward design, tailored to the site, which employs
numerous building and mechanical systems that enhance energy performance and
generate on-site renewable energy at a cost below $100 per s.f."
Energy Features
-
Foundation:
Basement with R-13 blown-in-batt insulation
-
Wall Construction:
Structural Insulated Panels
-
Wall Insulation:
R-23 SIPs
-
Rim Joist Insulation:
R-6 polyurethane spray foam
-
Roof Construction:
Structural Insulated Panels
-
Ceiling Insulation:
R-50 SIPs
-
Windows:
Low-e; U-0.31, SHGC 0.32
-
HVAC:
91 AFUE gas boiler with radiant distribution; Evaporative cooling system (SEER
40+); Heat recovery ventilation
-
Ducts:
All in conditioned space; Minimized duct design with registers at interior
walls
-
Water Heating:
45 s.f. solar thermal preheat with 0.91 EF electric auxiliary
-
Lighting:
100% compact fluorescent lamps
-
Appliances:
ENERGY STAR refrigerator and dishwasher
-
On-Site Energy Generation:
2 kW photovoltaic system; Solar water heating
-
Duct Leakage Test:
13 cfm total at 25 Pa; 0 cfm to exterior
-
Blower Door Test:
1315 cfm at 50 Pa; 3.2 ACH50
-
HERS Index:
42 (without PV)
-
Energy/Green Building Programs: Utah Green Build,
Energy Star
Category: Custom
Climate: Hot
Location: Colleyville, Texas
Square Footage: 4,885 s.f.
Construction cost: $174 per s.f.
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As one EVHA judge noted, GreenCraft Builders is "extremely dedicated to
increasing public awareness of the merits of energy-efficient design and
construction" as evidenced by their "tremendous marketing to the public and
training for fellow builders." A series of brief educational videos created
during the construction of this home effectively communicate many of its energy
efficiency and environmentally-friendly aspects. The unique luxury home, one of
many winning homes built in partnership with DOE's Building America program,
went "over the top" regarding energy efficiency, according to one judge, and
"accomplished its goal of education quite well."
Energy Features
-
Foundation:
Slab on grade uninsulated by choice based on cost benefit analysis
-
Wall Construction:
2x6 at 24" o.c.; Advanced framing
-
Wall Insulation:
R-19 open cell spray foam cavity insulation + R-5 XPS foam sheathing
-
Rim Joist Insulation:
R-30 open cell spray foam insulation + R-5 XPS foam sheathing
-
Roof Construction:
Advanced Framing: Unvented attic
-
Ceiling Insulation:
R-30 open cell spray foam insulation; Radiant barrier
-
Windows:
Low-e, gas-filled aluminum clad wood windows; U-0.30, SHGC 0.22-0.24
-
HVAC:
EER 18.6, 3.8 COP geothermal heat pump with desuperheater; Whole house energy
recovery ventilation
-
Ducts:
All in conditioned space; Minimized duct design with supply registers at
interior walls
-
Water Heating:
Desuperheater + 0.82 EF tankless gas water heater; PEX manifold distribution
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Lighting:
100% compact fluorescent lighting; Tubular skylight in bathroom
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Appliances:
ENERGY STAR labeled refrigerator, dishwasher, clothes washer
-
On-Site Energy Generation:
3 kW photovoltaic system
-
Duct Leakage Test:
430 CFM total at 25 Pa; 30 CFM to exterior at 25 Pa
-
Blower Door Test:
1,097 CFM at 50 Pa; 1.3 ACH50
-
HERS Index:
34 (with PV)
-
Energy/Green Building Programs: NAHB Green, USGBC
LEED-H, Energy Star, Green Built North Texas, DOE Building America, DOE
Builders Challenge qualified house
Category: Production
Climate: Hot
Location: San Antonio, Texas
Square Footage: 3,582 s.f.
Construction cost: $55 per s.f.
»
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The EVHA judges were impressed with the levels of energy efficiency and quality
that production builder Imagine Homes offers its clients at a very attractive
price point. According to the judges, the builder has a "great sales training
program" and produces superior marketing materials for the public and real
estate agents. Its homeowner's manual, according to one judge, is "very
readable and concise." Further, the judges were very impressed by Imagine
Homes' strong commitment to evaluating energy-efficiency measures to ensure
their homebuyers get the best option for their budgets.
Energy Features
-
Foundation:
Uninsulated slab on grade
-
Wall Construction:
2x4 and 2x6 at 16" o.c.
-
Wall Insulation:
R-13 spray foam insulation
-
Rim Joist Insulation:
R-13 spray foam insulation
-
Roof Construction:
2x6 rafter construction
-
Ceiling Insulation:
R-20 spray foam insulation at ceiling
-
Windows:
Low-e vinyl; U-0.36, SHGC 0.29
-
HVAC:
94 AFUE natural gas furnace; 15 SEER air conditioner; Whole-house exhaust
ventilation system; Multizone distribution
-
Ducts:
All in conditioned space
-
Water Heating:
Tankless gas water heater (commercially-sized, no listed EF); PEX manifold
distribution system
-
Lighting:
100% ENERGY STAR fixtures and compact fluorescent lamps
-
Appliances:
ENERGY STAR refrigerator and clothes washer
-
On-Site Energy Generation:
None
-
Duct Leakage Test:
0 cfm to exterior at 25 Pa; 81 cfm total at 25 Pa
-
Blower Door Test:
1,610 CFM at 50 Pa; 3.1 ACH50
-
HERS Index:
63
-
Energy/Green Building Programs: Energy Star, Build
San Antonio Green, DOE Builders Challenge qualified house
Category: Custom
Climate: Cold
Location: Arvada, Colorado
Square Footage: 4,971 s.f.
Construction cost: $230 per s.f.
»
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An established company that has been committed to energy efficiency since the
1970s, Kurowski Development is "clearly a strong builder whose attention to
detail is impressive." The company excelled in its construction process across
the board for this winning home. During the design phase, the company has an
"excellent process of listening to the client and helping them evaluate options
for their budget." Early in the construction process a HERS rater is brought in
and many energy-efficiency design details are put onto the plans. After design,
the builder has an "excellent process for quality management" to ensure the
details are implemented as planned.
Energy Features
-
Foundation:
Basement foundation with R-16 underslab insulation and R-20 (total) foam plus
cellulose wall insulation
-
Wall Construction:
2x6 at 16" o.c.
-
Wall Insulation:
R-30 closed cell spray foam
-
Rim Joist Insulation:
R-10 closed cell foam + spray cellulose
-
Roof Construction:
Trusses at 24" o.c.
-
Ceiling Insulation:
R-10 (1") closed cell foam + R-42 blown cellulose
-
Windows:
Low-e; U-0.35, SHGC 0.27
-
HVAC:
95 AFUE gas boiler with multizone distribution; Cooling by whole-house attic
fan; Balanced mechanical ventilation
-
Ducts:
All supply and 90% return ducts in conditioned space
-
Water Heating:
Sidearm heat exchanger heated by 95 AFUE boiler; 80-gallon storage tank
-
Lighting:
45% compact fluorescent lamps
-
Appliances:
ENERGY STAR dishwasher and clothes washer
-
On-Site Energy Generation:
None
-
Duct Leakage Test:
78 cfm total at 25 Pa; 78 cfm to exterior
-
Blower Door Test:
642 cfm at 50 Pa; 0.8 ACH50
-
HERS Index:
45
-
Energy/Green Building Programs: Build Green
Colorado, energy Star, DOE Builders Challenge qualified house
Category: Factory-built
Climate: Moderate
Location: Marietta, Georgia
Square Footage: 2,869 s.f.
Construction cost: $143 per s.f.
»
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New World Home is shifting paradigms as it breaks new ground in the construction
of modular-built green and energy-efficient new homes. The company values
aesthetics and attempts to create designs reminiscent of old architecture while
being loaded with new technologies and the latest building science. To
accomplish this, the company "reverse engineers" a house by starting with an
old house design and redesigning it with energy efficiency as the primary goal.
By getting its message out through the media and through real estate agent
training, the EVHA judges agree that this company is "on the right track with a
lot of great ideas pioneering green building and energy efficiency in the
modular industry."
Energy Features
-
Foundation:
R-12.5 precast concrete basement
-
Wall Construction:
2x6 at 24" o.c.
-
Wall Insulation:
R-19 formaldehyde-free fiberglass batt
-
Rim Joist Insulation:
R-19 open-cell spray foam
-
Roof Construction:
Trusses at 24" o.c.
-
Ceiling Insulation:
R-40 open-cell spray foam at roofline
-
Windows:
Low-e, gas-filled; U-0.47, SHGC 0.29
-
HVAC:
92 AFUE gas furnace; 13 SEER/7.7 HSPF heat pump; Multizone distribution
-
Ducts:
All in conditioned space
-
Water Heating:
84 EF tankless gas; PEX manifold distribution
-
Lighting:
All compact fluorescent lamps; Advanced lighting controls
-
Appliances:
ENERGY STAR refrigerator and dishwasher
-
On-Site Energy Generation:
None
-
Duct Leakage Test:
95 cfm to exterior at 25 Pa
-
Blower Door Test:
940 cfm at 50 Pa; 2.3 ACH50
-
HERS Index:
47
-
Energy/Green Building Programs: NAHB Green
Building, EarthCraft, LEED-H, DOE Builders Challenge qualified house house
Category: Custom
Climate: Cold
Location: Rockford, Michigan
Square Footage: 2,856 s.f.
Construction cost: $112 per s.f.
»
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The EVHA judges described this award-winning project as "carefully planned with
a very strong focus on creating an energy-efficient home that is comfortable
and affordable to live in." The builder placed a "great deal of emphasis" on
designing the home for the climate and taking advantage of the site's natural
features. During construction, the judges noted that the builder employed a
"good systems approach" in which management practices are "structured,
well-organized, and systematic" to produce an exceptionally tight,
high-performance home.
Energy Features
-
Foundation:
R-22 Insulating Concrete Form basement + modified frost-protected shallow
foundation
-
Wall Construction:
2x4 at 16" o.c.
-
Wall Insulation:
R-15 open cell foam + R-5 XPS exterior foam
-
Rim Joist Insulation:
R-15 open cell foam + R-5 XPS exterior foam
-
Roof Construction:
Trusses at 24" o.c.
-
Ceiling Insulation:
R-38 open cell spray foam + blown cellulose
-
Windows:
Low-e, gas-filled; U-0.31, SHGC 0.43
-
HVAC:
23.7 EER, 5.0 COP geothermal heat pump; Energy recovery ventilation system
-
Ducts:
All supply ducts and 90% return ducts in conditioned space; Multizone
distribution system
-
Water Heating:
Desuperheater + 0.92 EF electric auxiliary
-
Lighting:
20% ENERGY STAR fixtures; 80% compact fluorescent lamps
-
Appliances:
ENERGY STAR refrigerator, dishwasher, and clothes washer
-
On-Site Energy Generation:
None
-
Duct Leakage Test:
0 cfm total at 25 Pa; 0 cfm to exterior at 25 Pa
-
Blower Door Test:
240 cfm at 50 Pa; 0.5 ACH50
-
HERS Index:
53
-
Energy/Green Building Programs: Energy Star, Green
Built Michigan, LEED-H, DOE Builders Challenge qualified house
Category: Multifamily
Climate: Hot
Location: Savannah, Georgia
Square Footage: 1,350 s.f.
Construction cost: $85 per s.f.
»
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This affordable, multifamily project was described as "exemplary" in many ways.
The judges noted the builder's clear commitment to green building and found the
company's efforts to raise awareness of green living in the multifamily market
segment commendable. To execute its vision, Melaver trains its dedicated team
and works with the local EarthCraft program to incorporate third-party testing
as a valued part of the project.
Energy Features
-
Foundation:
Uninsulated slab on grade
-
Wall Construction:
2x6 at 16" o.c.
-
Wall Insulation:
R-19 spray cellulose
-
Rim Joist Insulation:
R-19 spray cellulose
-
Roof Construction:
I-joists
-
Ceiling Insulation:
R-30 blown cellulose
-
Windows:
Low-e, gas-filled vinyl; U-0.27, SHGC 0.31
-
HVAC:
14 SEER, 8.2 HSPF heat pump
-
Ducts:
All ducts in conditioned space
-
Water Heating:
0.91 EF electric storage tank heaters
-
Lighting:
100% ENERGY STAR fixtures
-
Appliances:
ENERGY STAR refrigerator and dishwasher
-
On-Site Energy Generation:
None
-
Duct Leakage Test:
124 cfm total at 25 Pa; 20 cfm to exterior
-
Blower Door Test:
857 cfm at 50 Pa; 4.8 ACH50
-
HERS Index:
-
Energy/Green Building Programs: LEED-H, EarthCraft
Multifamily, EarthCraft Coastal Communities, LEED for Neighborhood Development
Category: Production
Climate: Cold
Location: Madison, Wisconsin
Square Footage: 3,021 s.f.
Construction cost: $76 per s.f.
»
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Veridian Homes illustrates how very high performance can be achieved on a truly
production scale," according to the EVHA judges. "It's clear that energy
efficiency is one of the cornerstones on which [this company] has built its
business." Through an outstanding and "very systematic" process, Veridian has
institutionalized high performance practices that ensure materials, equipment,
and systems are properly installed and the construction schedule is maintained.
The judges noted that the company uses "effective checklists and inspections
[in its] exemplary approach to construction methods, coordination, and quality
control."
Energy Features
-
Foundation:
Basement foundation with R-5 exterior insulation and R-40 ceiling insulation
-
Wall Construction:
2x6
-
Wall Insulation:
R-19 fiberglass batt
-
Rim Joist Insulation:
R-19 closed cell foam
-
Roof Construction:
Trusses at 24" o.c.
-
Ceiling Insulation:
R-40 blown cellulose
-
Windows:
Low-e; U-0.31, SHGC 0.30
-
HVAC:
93 AFUE gas furnace; 13 SEER air conditioner; 80 cfm exhaust ventilation on
timer
-
Ducts:
All in conditioned space
-
Water Heating:
EF 64, 50-gallon power vented gas water heater
-
Lighting:
8% compact fluorescent lamps
-
Appliances:
None supplied
-
On-Site Energy Generation:
None
-
Duct Leakage Test:
10 cfm total at 25 Pa; 10 cfm to exterior at 25 Pa
-
Blower Door Test:
644 cfm at 50 Pa; 1.5 ACH50
-
HERS Index:
61
-
Energy/Green Building Programs: WI Energy Star
Homes, Energy Star, Green Built Homes, LEED-H, DOE's Building America, CARB,
Zero energy Home, Waste Cap-Waste Reduction/Recycling
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