NC Energy Star 3 &
NC Green Built Certified Home

The panelized exterior walls exterior of the home were pre-fabricated off-site in our manufacturing facility, The single largest contributing factor to achieving energy star certifications, they were designed and manufactured to exceed local building codes. A software program mapped out exact measurements which provided significant raw material waste savings, an estimated 2% on framing materials rather than the industry standard 20% for site built construction. Every piece of wood used in the home was drawn to exact size, cut in the shop, then given a part number to be used during the wall panel manufacturing.

Using staff carpenters, most of whom have received HERS Rater, BPI Building Envelope and Envelope Professional Certifications, the walls were framed with kiln dried, 2x6 lumber and sheathed. The wall sheathing combined the strength and stability of a structural sheathing system with the enhanced durability of the product's water-resistive barrier. A rain screen was used outside of the sheathing allowing any moisture that may find its way past the siding to have an airspace to dry. Electrical chases were drilled while in the manufacturing facility. Being constructed in the HCTF shop means the walls are never rained on or exposed to the elements. As many as possible windows and doors were installed prior to delivering the walls to the construction site.

The first floor and second floor exterior walls were completely installed on the existing subfloor in a matter of hours, not weeks.

The douglas fir heavy timber roof system offered greater flexibility in the floor-plan layout than traditional trusses without compromising the structural integrity. They also provide a feel to the home that only natural heavy timber can convey and addressed the client's desire for a clear line of site from one area in the home to another.

The King Post Timber Truss handles long spans and heavy load conditions. This truss, used in conjunction with heavy timber attic or collar tie trusses, works well in a loft area, a great room or for an entryway. Modified King Post Trusses are are especially good when more visual height is desired in the building plan.

As longtime supporters of the Green Building Alliance and its mission, we reach out to GBA members whenever possible for input and advice on HVAC systems and specifications, roofing, plumbing, electrical fixtures and appliances, water run-off and site preparation.

Energy efficient windows and doors and ultra-high-efficiency variable speed heat pump systems with greenspeed Intelligence and a SEER rating of 19, HSPF of 10.5, and an EER rating of 14.5 help keep the lower and main level comfortable. A mini-split system provides the loft with conditioned air. The mini-split system creates a comfortable environment no matter what the conditions are outside with advanced monitoring controls and the personal comfort control offering the control of temperature, fan speed, and air direction.

Ultra-high-efficient water heating equipment contributes to a reduction in energy consumption, lessens air pollution both indoors and outdoors and reduces greenhouse emissions. An Energy Recovery Ventilator, expels stale polluted air outdoors and refreshes the home with clean outside air, while at the same time recovering energy and pre-tempering the air coming into the home.

This particular home utilizes no renewables for a number of different reasons. Even without the use of renewables there is so much that can be done to improve the efficiency of a home. Simply put, it comes down to being precise and taking the time to do the job the right way.

We know that the building science and best practices are constantly being updated so it's important to stay current and evolve. In addition to the materials and construction methods used, the ability to make all systems work together as a cohesive unit is equally important. A structure meant to house people is a holistic system. There are multiple systems within that structure that have to work together, and we are learning to integrate these systems more efficiently.

The methods and materials used in our high performance homes are not a low cost alternative to site built construction but a long overdue step forward in general building best practices. The end result is to reduce environmental impact and ensure the client gets the most value for their money. It's also a reflection of who we are as a company, founded and directed by working carpenters, to do the best job possible on every project.