Green Features & Systems
725 Forest St, will be built to the highest building standards available including the US Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design for Homes - Gold (click here for more information).
Every aspect of the design of the house was evaluated from the perspective of creating a smaller footprint on the environment and a more comfortable and healthy indoor environment. The green features of 725 Forest St begin with the location and size of the house and include energy efficiency, indoor air quality, recycled and environmentally preferable materials, water efficiency and homeowner education.
Using the LEED for Homes rating system categories:
Location and Linkages
Central location near public transportation, public open space and services.
High capacity electric circuit in garage for electric vehicle charging (plug-in hybrids).
Sustainable Sites
Very water-efficient landscaping with native plants, drip lines and shaded areas.
Limited turf and hardscape or high-reflectance exterior concrete
Water Efficiency
High efficiency irrigation
High efficiency plumbing fixtures
Efficient water distribution system
Energy and Atmosphere
High efficiency building envelope featuring structural insulated panels (SIPs) and triple-pane, high performance windows. Insulated concrete form basement walls (R23). Overall the house will exceed the 2004 energy code by more than 50% (50% less energy than code).
High efficiency (SEER 17 or 30% more efficient than building code) air conditioning with no green house gases.
High efficiency gas-fired boiler with an annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) of 92%.
Optional solar hot water heating system.
2.45 kw Solar electric (photovoltaic) system.
Energy star appliances and extensive use of energy-efficient compact fluorescent lamps, natural daylight, and motion sensors.
Insulated (R4) hot water lines throughout.
Materials and Resources
FSC-certified framing lumber and sheathing material.
Recycled content concrete
FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) - certified hardwood flooring
Indoor Environmental Quality
High efficiency heat recovery ventilation system provides fresh air without losing heat.
No-volatile organic compound paints
Limited use of (contaminant-trapping) carpets
Radon mitigation system
Central vacuum system
Automated garage exhaust fan
Awareness and Education
Comprehensive homeowner education and a complete homeowner manual describing the "as built" systems and their proper operation and maintenance.
Pantry recycling and trash area.