Design and Build
The greatest opportunities for incorporating energy efficiency and sustainability into a home come in the design and build process. This section discusses issues related to this process—such as climate zone and home site considerations—as well as building elements, components, and systems that can separately or collectively increase a home's performance:
- Site design
- Foundations
- Walls
- Insulation
- Structural moisture control
- Windows and doors
- Roofs
- Lighting and daylighting
- Heating, Ventilating, & Air Conditioning
- Water heating and plumbing
- Appliances
- Health and safety
- Climate zone
The ultimate goal is to design and build a house where all the elements work together for greater energy efficiency and comfort, while ensuring healthy indoor air quality.