• Environmentally sensitive areas were avoided and/or protected during construction.
• Soil disturbance was minimized during the excavation of your dwelling.
• Fabric filters installed at the storm sewers provide sediment control into our lakes. Downspouts are not tied into storm sewers (where allowed), allowing moisture to percolate back into the soil; hence, less pollutants entering our lakes.
• During the framing of your dwelling, lumber bypasses the landfill and is now recycled for mulch.
• Moisture sensitive areas were protected against mold and rot with ice and water shield. A drip edge has been installed along all roof edges to protect the framing.
• The HVAC system has been installed with media filters. We’ve made it easy to replace these filters every 5-6 months which helps with healthier indoor air quality and increases HVAC efficiency. MERV rated 9 or greater.
• The furnace operates at 92% efficiency with horizontal venting (no more heat going up the flue). This also provides outside air for the combustion to chamber for better indoor air quality.
• Bath fans are sized according to each room and vented to the exterior. Removing moisture from those rooms in a timely manner will reduce mold growth.
• Moisture control in your dwelling is very important. Humidifiers and dehumidifiers need to be monitored correctly. With too much moisture, mold grows. Not enough moisture causes respiratory problems.
• Your faucets, shower heads and water closets have a low flow (gpm) for less water consumption. Even your dishwasher (Energy Star) meets energy standards. Your hot water tank, being centrally located between your faucets, saves energy also or by upgrading to a tankless water heater.
• As you become accustomed to your dwelling, we recommend you invest into longer-lasting fluorescent bulbs, which use less energy.
• Your dwelling has R-60 attic insulation, R-15 side wall insulation, plus R-3 foam backed lifetime vinyl siding also a R-1.5 cavity (total R19.5) and exterior house wrap reducing air infiltration. A caulk and sealant package for reduced air infiltration was applied.
• Low-E glass windows are installed which reduce energy costs along with blocking some of the sun’s UV rays. You will notice that your dwelling will be much quieter to exterior noise.
• Indoor paints used were a low or no VOC paint. These paints have less impact on our environment and less odor. Since paints are manufactured close by, there are lower transportation emissions and fuel consumption.
• Mohawk carpet manufacturers have made efforts in their process to reduce the amount of resources they use. Mohawk is one of the world’s largest recyclers of plastic soda and water bottles.
• They are leaders in recycling old tires by molding them into durable designer doormats. Some of your carpet was created with either soybean or corn plants. Shaw carpet now offers Anso nylon products that contain post consumer recycled contents. These nylon products are also recycled for a cradle to cradle program (carpet made from carpet).
• Many of the outdoor plants are drought resistant, requiring less water to survive. Also, when available, dwellings are mulched with recycled wood.
• Remember to call your city hall to inquire about how their recycling programs works in your community.

Keeping you healthy and the environment safe one step at a time.