Building green will save thousands of dollars in energy, insurance, and replacement costs for the owners of several new homes built in Florida. Habitat for Humanity in Pinellas is building durable Energy Star-rated homes. Florida Green Building Coalition-certified Glencairn Cottages in Dunedin is the Tampa Bay area’s first entirely green community. Habitat found that although the upfront costs of building durable, energy-efficient homes might be slightly higher, the homes ultimately save their economically disadvantaged homeowners an average of $1,035 a year. Hip roofs built with wind-resistant metal coverings and a second water membrane, double metal wrapped roof-to-wall attachments, and aluminum hurricane shutters save money on insurance and keep the house safe in Florida storms. High ceilings and window placement help reduce the need for electric lights and air conditioning. Air conditioners are 15 SEER, with tightly sealed ductwork to prevent leaks. Low-E windows, radiant-roof barriers, light-colored roofs, and well-insulated attics also help keep the homes cool. The community also features a net-zero home that produces its own electricity with non-obtrusive solar panels and a solar water heater. The Glencairn homes all received LEED Gold Certification, which Dunedin rewards by reimbursing the builder’s permit fees. | Read More
Recent Posts
- Former Homesnap employees stole trade secrets over online marketplace tech, CoStar alleges
- California finally passes RON legislation
- Four of the biggest MLSs in the Southeast have formed an alliance
- Florida Bankers Association names Kathy Kraninger as CEO
- 130+ Halloween Costume Ideas If You Have No Idea What You’re Going to Be Yet
Archives
Categories
- Decor (1,393)
- Energy Saving Tips (15)
- Green Design (22)
- Greening Tips (1,375)
- Home Improvement (2,339)
- Home Remodeling (16)
- Home Security (10)
- Homeowners News (1,265)
- Homeowners News;Top Story (3)
- Housing and Mortgage Trends (1,634)
- Insurance (1)
- Maintenance and Repair (10)
- Safety (4)
- Smart Home Tech (1,118)
- Top Story (106)