| ng energy not only hurts your wallet, but also the | | | | cement reduces the amount of regular roofing waste |
| planet. Homes use energy from fuels such as oil, coal, | | | | entering landfills. |
| and electricity which add toxins to the air and water, | | | | Improved Insulation: Better quality insulation that is |
| contributes to global warming, and increases habitat | | | | properly installed in attics, walls, ceilings, and floors, will |
| loss. With the unstable oil and gas markets, many | | | | decrease energy use and reduce energy costs. |
| people are looking for ways to cut down on energy | | | | Energy-Efficient Windows: Manufactured and installed |
| costs. Fortunately, new homes are being built to | | | | windows using new technologies that include |
| increase energy efficiency and lower energy costs | | | | protective coatings and improved frames. These |
| There are many benefits to building energy efficient | | | | windows ensure that heat stays outside during the |
| new homes that include: | | | | summer and inside during the winter. Energy efficient |
| Reduced Costs: An energy efficient new home is | | | | windows also block damaging ultraviolet sunlight. |
| constructed to keep heat from escaping so you are | | | | Energy Efficient Doors: Installing improved seals |
| not running the furnace 24 hours a day. Many | | | | around doors and patio doors will stop cold air flowing |
| mortgage companies offer incentives to people | | | | into homes or warm air escaping. |
| building energy efficient new homes. There are also | | | | Energy Efficient Heating and Cooling systems: |
| federal tax incentives for building energy efficient | | | | Furnaces, heat pumps, and thermostats that are |
| new homes. | | | | energy efficient allow new homes to use less energy |
| Sound Investment: Each year more people are | | | | and save money. Energy efficient heating and cooling |
| looking for energy efficient homes. Building an energy | | | | systems are quieter and reduce indoor humidity. |
| efficient new home now will increase the future value | | | | Solar Heat: A number of new energy efficient homes |
| of the home. | | | | are designed to benefit from solar heat coming |
| Peace of Mind: Building an energy efficient new home | | | | through larger windows |
| allows homeowners to enjoy their home knowing | | | | Ducts: Sealing the heating and cooling duct systems |
| they are meeting energy efficiency guidelines. | | | | reduces drafts, moisture, and dust. Tight ducts will |
| Fewer Pollutants: It is estimated that 16 percent of | | | | ensure that the proper amount of warm or cool air is |
| U.S. greenhouse gas emissions are generated from | | | | reaching every room. |
| the energy used in houses nationwide. When you use | | | | Energy Efficient appliances: Modern and energy |
| less energy, you decrease the amount of pollutants | | | | efficient appliances allow you to save money while |
| being released in the environment. This will lead to | | | | using less energy. Appliances include ovens, dish |
| less of an impact on global warming. | | | | washers, washer and dryer machines, and |
| Improved Air Quality: Cold drafts blowing through the | | | | refrigerators, etc. |
| home can be uncomfortable and increase the risk of | | | | Low-Flow Faucets, Shower Heads, and Toilets: |
| sickness. An energy efficient new home ensures air | | | | Decreases water use and reduces hydro fees |
| tightness keeping the home cozy. These new homes | | | | Air Filtration Systems: Installing energy efficient air |
| also protect against cold, heat, drafts, and moisture. | | | | filtration systems is healthy for the family and saves |
| Not only does an energy-efficient new home improve | | | | money. |
| indoor air quality, it keeps temperatures consistent. | | | | Whether your home energy comes from oil, gas, or |
| General features of an energy efficient new home | | | | coal, it has a direct impact on the environment and |
| include: | | | | your wallet. These energy sources contribute to |
| Engineered Lumber: Build a new home using lumber | | | | global warming, habitat loss, and increases toxins in |
| from trees that are identified as a renewable species | | | | our air and water. By building an energy efficient new |
| because they grow fast and help protect the | | | | home, you can do your part to help the planet while |
| environment. | | | | lowering your energy costs. |
| Roofing: Selecting durable roofing materials such as | | | | |