Mainestream Green
Home Designs
Brought to you by MaineHousing
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INTRO
FORWARD
Dale McCormick
John E. Baldacci
MaineHousing Director
Governor
Most people agree that “green housing” is desirable housing,
even if they are uncertain exactly what it is.
My most important job as Governor is to secure the health
and safety of Maine citizens. Our health and that of our
children depend on clean air and water, but also on the
condition of our homes. Advancing this objective means developing more housing that
is protective of our environment and energy efficient.
As this Mainestream Green Housing primer shows, green
housing is desirable, but it does not have to look unusual, be expensive, or use
extraordinary materials or construction methods.
Green housing is more than just energy efficient housing. Green housing also means
housing that is suitable to its environment, uses durable materials, and is healthy for
its occupants and the planet.
This Mainestream Green Housing primer grew out of MaineHousing’s Mainestream
Green Home Design Contest. MaineHousing’s goal is to encourage the construction
of more affordable green housing in Maine. The contest invited architects, builders,
and anyone else to submit plans for a green home. MaineHousing awarded prizes
of $2,000, $1,000, and $500 to the top three designs selected by a panel of five
independent judges.
The designs featured here met the contest requirements, which means the homes are:
Energy efficient, meeting MaineHousing’s green energy standards;
ß Durable,
to stand up to Maine’s harsh climate;
ß Affordable,ablecosting
no more than $150,000 to build;
ß Moderately sized, with
a minimum of 1,000 square feet;
ß Marketable, meeting general
housing needs: three bedrooms,
ß closets, and so on.
In addition to including the top green home designs, this booklet provides general
information on green housing and references for additional information. Our hope is
that this book informs, enlightens, and inspires you.
This Mainestream Green Home primer is a step in that direction. I hope it will
kindle interest among builders in developing homes that are highly energy efficient,
environmentally friendly, built with durable materials, and healthy for the occupants.
It was my pleasure to present the awards to the top green home architects in
MaineHousing’s Mainestream Green Home Design Contest. Their work is included
in this book, along with two designs that received honorable mention.
In addition to innovative designs, this publication contains valuable information on
green housing and a list of resources.
I am proud that Maine is taking the lead in promoting green housing standards and
green home initiatives. I look forward to seeing some of these home designs converted
into actual housing in the future, perhaps as part of an affordable subdivision. That
will show that green housing makes economic sense on an individual level, and that
reducing dependence on imported energy makes sense for everyone.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Our Commitment to Green . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Green Home Design 101/
Overview & Green Design Standards . . . . . . . . . 2–3
1st Place, John Gordon . . . . . .
2nd Place, Ryan Senator . . . . .
3rd Place, Chris Briley. . . . . . .
Honorable Mention, Amy Hinkley .
Honorable Mention, Ron Goodwin
and Steven M. Martel . . . . . . .
Judges Recognition Awards. . . .
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4–5
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Overview of Green Building Practices/
Connection to the Community . . . .
Green Site Design . . . . . . . . . . .
Efficient Water Use . . . . . . . . . .
Building Materials . . . . . . . . . . .
Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . .
Renewable Energy. . . . . . . . . . .
Indoor Environmental Quality . . . . .
Greening an Existing Home . . . . . .
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Judges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Resources/Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22–23
Recognition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24–25
OUR COMMITMENT
TO GREEN
MaineHousing’s committed to financing affordable
housing that is more energy efficient, better for the
environment, more sustainable, and is healthier
for occupants.
Over the past few years MaineHousing has:
Adopted new Green Building Standards for all new rental housing it finances.
The standards will make the new housing 30 percent more energy efficient,
as well as provide other attributes of green housing.
Initiated a green housing design competition to encourage the design of
affordable single-family homes that are energy efficient and meet
MaineHousing’s Green Building Standards. This contest also served as the
centerpiece for recent Governor’s Annual Affordable Housing Conferences.
Incorporated solar, photovoltaic, and wind power into MaineHousing projects.
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Our commitment goes beyond the housing we finance. In fact, it includes the agency itself.
Internally, MaineHousing has taken several steps to make itself more green. These include:
Instituting flextime and telecommuting for employees to reduce commuting
mileage. This is saving an estimated 3,000 miles a week of driving, or 7,500
gallons of gasoline annually.
Adopting other green building efforts in the office that reduced the use of
paper and plastic cups, plates, and silverware, and establishing recycling bins
throughout the building for everything from paper to batteries.
Replacing traditional light switches throughout the building with motion
detector devices that automatically turn off lights if the office is not in use.
Computers have been programmed to go to energy-saving “sleep” mode
when not being used.
Using recycled paper in the office and MaineHousing publications.
Becoming the first state agency to develop a baseline greenhouse gas emissions
inventory, the initial step in the Governor’s Carbon Challenge program.
The goal is to reduce greenhouse gases to 1990 levels.
Installing rooftop photovoltaic cells.
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1
GREEN HOME
DESIGN 101
Consider this book “Green Home Design 101.”
On the following pages you will find information and designs from prize winning
Maine architects for green homes. The homes featured here demonstrate that high
performance housing can be constructed without compromising affordability, can
reduce the home’s impact on the natural environment, and can conserve energy
when compared to conventionally designed homes.
These are the top designs, submitted to the Mainestream Green Home Design Contest,
as selected by a panel of five independent judges from northern New England. On the
following pages, each designer expresses how their individual designs met the six key
contest parameters:
1) Relative Costs
2) Quality of Spaces
3) Innovation
4) Energy Efficiency
5) Constructability
6) Building Materials and Environmental Impact
OVERVIEW & GREEN
DESIGN STANDARDS
In keeping with its mission to assist Maine people in obtaining and maintaining
decent, safe, affordable housing and services, MaineHousing has developed a set of
Green Building Standards for designers, developers, and contractors who apply for
MaineHousing funding. Designing and building in this fashion assures long-term
affordability by providing dwellings with lower energy use that will protect owners
from rising fuel prices. The intention is to create healthy, economical, and durable
buildings that are efficient to operate and maintain. The standards outlined here
served as the foundation of the Mainestream Green Home Design Contest criteria.
MaineHousing Green Building Standards can be found on page 3 of this book.
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In addition to the winning designs, this book features information about some of the
most important elements of green design, a section defining commonly used terms in
green home construction, a section listing other valuable sources of information about
green housing, and information about the judges and sponsors that made this contest
and book possible.
MaineHousing organized this contest as a way to spread the word about and inspire
interest in green housing. The goal was to develop designs for homes that are healthy,
affordable, durable, energy efficient, and environmentally friendly. The contest
required designs to meet the Green Building Standards that MaineHousing has
adopted for all new multi-family housing that the agency finances, and thereby create
designs for single-family homes that also meet these requirements.
The homes also had to be marketable—a minimum of 1,000 square feet offering living
space that is attractive, functional, and meets the needs of the typical family. Each
designer had to incorporate a kitchen, dining area, living area, three bedrooms, one
bath, and storage that is compatible with the average family’s needs.
At a time in our history when high energy costs make it more and more expensive to
heat homes, and when there is growing concern about sprawl and our impact on the
environment, green housing should be recognized as part of the mainstream, not a novelty.
We hope you find the home designs featured here useful, and the book informative
and educational. For anyone interested in building a new home, we hope this book
will encourage and inspire you.
For more information on the details of the winning
designs, visit our website at www.mainehousing.org
or contact the contest winners directly.
MAINEHOUSING’S
GREEN BUILDING
STANDARDS
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These Green Building Standards were developed for MaineHousing’s multifamily
housing development, and further served as the foundation for the Mainestream
Green Home Design Contest criteria.
6 Inspection/Commissioning
1 Site
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Landscape with at least 75% northern hardy native species that do not require
irrigation. This is measured by number of plantings.
Preserve existing trees and vegetation, except within 30’ of buildings, driveways,
solar access, areas cleared for food production and as required for grading for
drainage requirements.
Minimize light pollution to the night sky.
2 Building Design
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An overall water management plan for the building envelope for prevention of
indoor air quality (IAQ) problems from mold.
3 Energy Efficiency: Building Envelope
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The building envelope must be sealed to prevent air leaks.
The thermal envelope* shall be insulated in a manner that complies with either
the requirements of Chapter 4 of the 2004 IECC or the requirements of state law
whichever is more stringent.
Energy efficient windows optimized for solar gain OR advanced framing*
techniques such as OVE, SIPS, ICF, stress skin panel and others.
Spaces between trusses or rafters shall have blocking at the soffit to prevent
“windwashing” of the attic insulation.
No pipes or ducts in outside walls.
Seal ductwork with duct mastic to prevent air leakage.
5 Energy Efficiency: Interior Lighting Fixtures
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Lighting lamps and fixtures shall be Energy Star rated.
No recessed light fi xtures shall be installed in roof/ceiling assemblies.
All emergency exit signs shall be LED.
Commissioning* required for projects of five units or more with central
mechanical systems.
For each project, a representative number of units, as determined by
MaineHousing, must be “Blower Door*” tested to verify effectiveness
of air sealing.
A representative sampling of ducted air distribution systems, as determined
by MaineHousing, must be tested to verify effectiveness of duct sealing.
7 Indoor Environmental Quality
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Position and size operable windows and glazing systems to take advantage
of natural ventilation, cooling and daylighting.
Use low VOC* paint.
Use low VOC adhesives & sealants.
If carpet is installed it must meet the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI)
low emission test standard.
No carpet in kitchens, bathrooms or within 3’ of entry doors.
8 Materials
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Use framing and finish lumber harvested from sustainably managed forests
OR local / regional materials OR durable materials.
9 Resource Efficiency
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Provide space for recycling containers at convenient location(s) for storage
of recyclables.
Non-mercury thermostats.
4 Energy Efficiency: Systems & Appliances
10 Post Occupancy
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Energy Star* labeled systems & appliances.
Bathroom exhaust fans shall meet the requirements of ASHRAE 62.2 - 2003
Ventilation & Acceptable Indoor Air Quality in Low-Rise Residential Buildings.
Water Efficiency: Low flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets.
Provide tenants with educational materials about green design, building
operations, recycling & building maintenance.
*Find definitions of asterisked items in the glossary.
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John Gordon
Gordon | Stanley Architecture
1ST PLACE
Designer’s Overview
RELATIVE COSTS Affordability results from a design rigor and discipline to keep the house very compact, efficient, and simple
without compromising function or aesthetics.
QUALITY OF SPACES
The layout provides smart-sized bedrooms and bathroom with abundant windows, and will feel much
larger than their physical dimensions might indicate. The first floor living/dining area has some separation from the kitchen. The sense of
“largeness” in a relatively small “container” contributes to the inherent affordability of this house.
INNOVATION The design objectives include a compact, efficient, simple, and familiar building design, and the use of durable,
low-maintenance, sustainable, commonly available, energy efficient materials. The design establishes an ease of constructability and
replication, with minimal long-term operating and maintenance expenses.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY Energy efficient design begins with the building envelope that has R24 exterior walls and R50 attic
insulation. The insulation system also contributes to “air-tightness.” The result is a well-insulated, quiet interior living environment.
Windows and doors are well-insulated and Energy Star rated. Plumbing fi xtures are low flow and water efficient. Light fi xtures utilize
compact fluorescent bulbs and are also Energy Star rated, as are all appliances.
A wall mounted gas-fired, high-efficiency boiler will provide years of low energy bills. Its small size and installation conserves space and
maximizes available living area.
CONSTRUCTABILITY
The use of commonly available building materials and systems in combination with a very simple, efficient
building form produces ease of constructability and the ability to replicate in a cost-effective manner.
BUILDING MATERIALS AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Use of commonly available, green building materials and
systems would include:
ß Concrete with fly ash or slag cement substitute.
ß Framing lumber harvested from sustainably managed forests.
ß Rigorous air-sealing at building envelope.
ß Use of air seal electrical boxes at electrical outlets located in exterior walls.
ß Fiber-cement clapboard siding.
ß Wheatboard core interior doors.
ß Recycled content gypsum board.
ß Zero VOC interior paint.
ß Formaldehyde-free wheatboard core cabinets.
Full design descriptions are available at www.MaineHousing.org
John Gordon
John Gordon is a founder of Gordon | Stanley Architecture of Southwest Harbor. Gordon has been designing and
constructing buildings since 1982, including public schools, university and municipal buildings, performing arts
facilities, and homes. He has been an active member of the Maine Chapter of the American Institute of Architects
(AIA) since 1991, served on Maine’s AIA Executive Committee since 2003, and is the 2005-06 President. Gordon
is a founding member of Maine AIA’s Committee on the Environment. He is a graduate of Cornell University with
a degree in Design and Environmental Analysis.
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Gordon | Stanley Architecture
19 Clark Point Rd., Suite 104
Southwest Harbor, ME 04679
207.244.4470
john.gordon@gordonstanleyarch.com
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Ryan Senator
TFH Architects
2ND PLACE
Designer’s Overview
RELATIVE COSTS
The design maximizes usable square footage while minimizing overall square footage which allows
the incorporation of better building systems and technologies while remaining affordable.
QUALITY OF SPACES The use of natural light is a key design element. The versatility of the plan allows it to be
oriented along an east-west axis which maximizes southern solar exposure. The series of open living spaces on the ground level are
arranged to connect the residents to their environment and the movement of the sun, which gives each space a sense of time and
place throughout the day.
INNOVATION
Th is home is versatile—it could potentially be located at any site in the state of Maine, or the world for
that matter, with different street frontage, orientation, views, etc. The plan can be rotated and flipped with minor modifications
to keep the living spaces connected to the southern exposure and preserve the passive solar design. The two-story massing of the
house with the shed roof on one side is intended to fit within a rural or an urban neighborhood setting.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
A geo-thermal heat pump is included, which uses the earth’s energy along with electricity to
create hot water to provide heat, hot water, and air conditioning. The house gets part of its electricity needs from roof mounted
photovoltaic panels. These panels help off set the electricity used by the heat pump and together the two systems eliminate the
need for any onsite fossil fuel use.
CONSTRUCTABILITY The house is made from a series of components that are easily assembled minimizing construction
time and complications. The exterior envelope is made of Structurally Insulated Panels (SIPS) which are panels made of two layers of
sheathing with rigid insulation sandwiched between them. These panels are also the structure; sheathing and insulation are contained
in one product that is delivered precut to the job site and set into place. This component construction system is optimal for replicating
the design with minimal complication.
BUILDING MATERIALS AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
The materials were selected based on their minimal
impact on the natural environment, and to create healthy living spaces for the residents. For example, the bamboo flooring is a natural, highly
durable product that has a fast growth rate and the cabinets are made from veneered wood products that do not contain urea-formaldehyde, a known
harmful substance used throughout the building industry. The careful selection of materials that make up the house is an important step in creating a
healthy and low maintenance residence.
Full design descriptions are available at www.MaineHousing.org
Ryan Senator
Ryan Senator is a project manager at TFH Architects in Portland. He has been with TFH since graduating
from Roger Williams University of Rhode Island in 2002. Ryan is a LEED Accredited Professional who has had
interests in environmentally responsible design and construction since his undergraduate days. He recently
has designed and built an energy efficient home in Kingfield, Maine. Ryan is currently the project manager for
a 26 unit multifamily development in Westbrook, and is preparing to take the Architectural Registration Exam
to become a licensed Architect.
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TFH Architects
100 Commercial St., Suite 212
Portland, ME 04101
207.775.6141
rjs@tfharchitects.com
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Chris Briley
Green Design Studio
3RD PLACE
Designer’s Overview
RELATIVE COST
Simplicity of form and energy efficiency makes this design affordable. Its rectangular footprint,
mono-pitched roof, structural insulated panel (SIP) wall construction, and single span joists simplify construction, yielding a
very cost effective home. The passive solar design contributes 46% of the home’s annual heating needs while shading it from
summer sun. The high efficiency gas boiler, in combination with the solar hot water system, makes up the remainder at an
estimated annual heating cost of only $540.
QUALITY OF SPACES The living spaces are pushed to the south to take advantage of the natural daylight while
the utility and support spaces are pushed to the north. The house features a wall of water columns that will capture the light
from the only north facing window so that they will glow and add a peaceful, unique point of interest for the living room
and the stairs. They will also add thermal mass and aid in thermal transfer between floors. Bamboo floors, polished concrete,
and paperstone counters give the owner the evidence that quality need not be sacrificed for affordability. An energy recovery
ventilator in combination with the natural air flow through the home will ensure a fresh and healthy atmosphere.
INNOVATION
The house also takes advantage of prevailing winds to reinforce the natural convection of air within the
home by having the first floor casement windows open to the west to catch the breeze while the second floor windows open to
the east to draw the air out of the house. There is also a manual exterior shading device that provides shade in the summer and
solar gain in winter.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
The home’s size, shape, orientation, and passive solar design leverage the elements to reduce
the demand for energy required to heat and cool the house. With a tight and well insulated exterior envelope, heat loss (or gain) to
the exterior is greatly reduced, also saving energy.
CONSTRUCTABILITY
The simple form, SIP wall construction, and single-span floor members, make this home easy to
construct and replicate.
BUILDING MATERIALS AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Th roughout the design, materials were chosen
with an eye toward their impact on the environment and their effect on indoor air quality. Examples of such products are paperstone counters,
timbersil treated lumber, bamboo flooring, zero VOC paint and adhesives, cellulose insulation, metal siding and roofing with a high recycled
content, elimination of carpet in the house, and plastic waste piping.
Full design descriptions are available at www.MaineHousing.org
Chris Briley
Chris Briley is the principal architect and founder of the new Green Design Studio in Yarmouth. Briley is a
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Accredited Professional. He is currently working on a
house that is slated to be the first in Maine to receive a LEED Gold Certification. He is a founding member of
the Maine Chapter of the Green Building Council, and a member of its Board of Directors. He is also a board
member of the Environmental and Energy Technology Council of Maine. Briley holds a degree in architecture
and a degree in Environmental Design from Ball State University, College of Architecture and Planning.
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325 Main St.
Yarmouth, ME 04096
207-449-1128
cbriley@architectureforlife.com
www.architectureforlife.com
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HONORABLE MENTION
Amy Hinkley
156 Clary Hill Road, Waldoboro, ME 04572
207.832.6568 | redhouse@midcoast.com
Judges’ Comments:
“Well thought out use of space”
“Easy to build” with “Believable costs”
“Framing plan demonstrates practicality of this design”
Building Section Key
1 The eave detail was developed for maximum insulation at the
building’s thermal envelope, direct load transfer for an efficient
use of framing lumber, ease of insulating and finishing the attic
at a later date, and simplicity of exterior trim.
2 The exterior wall system is 2x6 FSC studs, 24” o.c. w/ R-19
Miraflex (encapsulated fiberglass) insulation. ½” drywall at the
interior and ¾” TUFF-R insulating sheathing board at the
exterior. Siding is Fiber Cement Clapboard with a 6” exposure.
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3 The Balloon frame wall system uses framing material efficiently
and allows for a simple, continuous vapor barrier and insulation
envelope.
4 A combination of sill gaskets and rigid insulation is used at the
rim joist/sill connection to insure a continuous vapor barrier and
prevent warm air from condensing at the rim joist.
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5 Rigid fiberglass insulating boards over a waterproof membrane
insure that the mass of the concrete basement walls is within the
thermal envelope of the house.
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6 Headers and Cripple studs are eliminated at the non-structural
gable end walls to economize on lumber, reduce thermal
bridging, and standardize the insulating process.
7 Insulated headers manufactured by Truss Joist are used at all
openings at bearing walls.
8 R-50 Blown in Cellulose and a continuous vapor barrier at the
ceiling plane keep warm air in.
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9 40 year asphalt shingles over ½” OSB sheathing w/ H clips
insures a long life for the roof.
10 4” concrete slab over 2” rigid insulation over a 6” stone layer
keeps the basement warm and dry.
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11 Marvin Integrity windows are sealed with non expanding foam
sealant to eliminate air leaks at the perimeter.
12 All light fixtures accommodate CF lamps and are surface
mounted so that warm air can’t leak into the insulation.
HONORABLE MENTION
Ron Goodwin and Steven M. Martel
26 Lindale Ave., Biddeford, ME 04005
207.282.5020 | rongoodwin@maine.rr.com
“Wonderful passive design with active possibilities”
Judges’ Comments:
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“Nice quality of space”
“Thoughtful approach to orienting building on site”
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JUDGES’ RECOGNITION AWARDS
The five judges reviewing the 23 applications for the
Mainestream Green Home Design Contest decided
that certain designs deserved special recognition
awards. These awards and their recipients are:
Green Landscaping Award
Kelly Cutchin, South Berwick
kellycutchin@hotmail.com
This design was recognized for its overall presentation which clearly defined how the
building would relate to the site and a neighborhood in a charming manner.
Active & Passive Solar Award
Chip Flanagan, Portland
chipboat@nlis.net
Understanding that alternative energy source considerations are very important in
green design, the judges appreciated the efforts made by several of the applicants
to incorporate some form of solar energy system into their designs. This design was
recognized for its attention to detail in incorporating this technology.
Compact Design Award
Kay Stevens-Rosa, A4 Architects, Inc., Bar Harbor
kay@a4architects.com
Designing a living environment that is efficient in space utilization can result in a
compact building form that is both functional and cost sensitive. This design was
recognized for its success in accomplishing a compact yet functional building plan.
Innovative Airlock Award
Augusto Rosa, A4 Architects, Inc., Bar Harbor
augusto@a4architects.com
Alternative approaches to problem solving often result in new or reinvented ideas. The
judges particularly liked the flexible space created by the moveable wall/door at the
entry of this design.
Life Cycle Analysis Award
David Foley, Holland and Foley Architects, LLC, Northport
contact@hollandandfoley.com
In the process of creating green and sustainable design it is important to understand
that initial costs when compared to overall useful life weigh heavily in materials and
systems selection. This design presented an outstanding analysis of this important
process as part of their contest entry.
Concept & Vision Award
Isaac Robbins, Elliott Elliott Norelius Architecture, Blue Hill
Isaac@elliottelliottnorelius.com
The design process evolves from a good understanding of the overall project goals,
objectives, and constraints. This design was recognized for its success, its presentation
of the concept, and vision of the contest’s challenges.
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Net Zero Award
Liv Chase, Portland
livchase@yahoo.com
Energy use is of utmost concern in green design. To design, construct, and use a home
that in the end has a balance of energy generated that meets the demands of the user is
a challenge. The judges felt that this design made a very good presentation in focusing
on trying to achieve a net zero energy costs goal.
The design and construction of green homes produces healthier living
environments, improved indoor comfort, and reduced heating, cooling,
electrical, and maintenance costs. Green homes are also more durable and
environmentally friendly than their conventionally built counterparts.
OVERVIEW OF
GREEN BUILDING
PRACTICES
Many considerations go into the siting, designing, building, and living in a
home that is green. There are several degrees of “green,” from homes with a
few green features to those that integrate a full spectrum of green design and
construction options. Key concepts discussed in this publication include:
CONNECTION TO COMMUNITY, GREEN SITE
DESIGN, EFFICIENT WATER USE, BUILDING AND
MATERIALS, ENERGY EFFICIENCY, RENEWABLE
ENERGY, AND INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY.
CONNECTION TO
COMMUNITY
The first decision in making a green home is choosing a good location. For example,
minimizing automobile use improves air quality, saves fuel, and creates safer and
quieter neighborhoods. A good site ideally would be:
Pedestrian and bicycle friendly
Close to mass transit such as bus or rail lines
Close to shops, schools, and community services
Close to opportunities for recreation such as parks and trails.
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Available existing infrastructure should be considered when selecting a site. Factors to
consider include:
Building in an area that is already developed and served by existing water, sewer,
and electric utilities (which limits the amount of disturbance to the land), rather
than a “greenfield” or undeveloped area.
Building on infill or abandoned lots which helps to repair the urban fabric and
strengthens neighborhoods.
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Development density is another key consideration. Compact developments reduce sprawl
and support the growth of strong neighborhoods with a mix of services, shops, and transit.
Walker Terrace, located in downtown
Portland—MaineHousing’s first building
built to Green Building Standards
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GREEN SITE DESIGN
A green home minimizes the impact on the site. It may even restore site health and vitality if the area has been
damaged by previous development. Examples of low impact site development include:
ß Reducing the amount of lawn area and landscaping with native or adapted plants that provide habitat for birds and insects.
ß Landscaping with shade trees on the south and west to keep the site cool in the summer and reduce the need for air conditioning.
ß Planting evergreens on the north side of a building helps to block prevailing winter winds, reducing heating costs.
Rain is natural; stormwater is not.
Rainfall becomes stormwater when
it runs off a site untreated into
sewers or nearby water bodies.
Up to 70% of the pollution in our
ponds, rivers, and lakes comes from
stormwater. Strategies to reduce
these impacts include:
or eliminating storm water run-off by
ß Reducing
minimizing impermeable surfaces, such as asphalt
or concrete walkways and driveways, and managing
rainwater runoff from the building.
pervious surfaces that absorb rainfall such
ß Installing
as permeable paving*, concrete and gravel, and plants.
new management strategies such as rain
ß Incorporating
gardens—bowl-shaped gardens specially designed to
absorb run-off from impervious surfaces, such as roof
or parking areas.
vegetated roofs that absorb rainfall and help
ß Using
insulate the home, reducing heating and cooling needs.
Maine’s first vegetated roof* on
The East End Community School, Portland
Photo: Stephen Blatt Architects
*Find definitions of asterisked items in the glossary.
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EFFICIENT WATER USE
Reducing water use saves both water and sewer
costs. Opportunities to conserve water include:
ß Collecting or “harvesting” rainfall* in tanks and then using it during dry
periods to irrigate landscaping and/or gardens or using it to supply water that
does not need to be drinkable such as for flushing toilets.
ß Installing native plants that are often drought tolerant and survive well with
only natural rainfall.
ß If irrigation is needed, using “smart” programmable sprinkler systems and
moisture sensors that measure the amount of water needed and control irrigation
from a central shut-off valve.
ß Using low-flow faucets and showerheads, front-loading washers, and watersaving
toilets and showerheads to reduce water use by 30–40%.
Dual flush toilets are increasingly available.
They have two buttons, one for full flush and one for half flush when a full flush
is not needed. These toilets save water and have been used extensively for many
years in Australia and Europe. (Photo: Caroma USA)
Low-flow showerhead
Photo: Kohler
*Find definitions of asterisked items in the glossary.
15
BUILDING AND MATERIALS
An important consideration in green home design
is building size. A smaller, more compact home
uses fewer materials to build and fewer resources
to maintain.
A well designed home can be comfortable and feel spacious by including good
day lighting, utilizing multiple use spaces, and providing an appropriate building
scale. Whatever the size, a green building design should make efficient use of
materials, minimize unnecessary components, use green materials, and reduce
the amount of construction waste. Environmentally friendly, green building
products, once difficult to find, are now widely available. Green building
products include:
ß
ß
ß
Products manufactured with local materials. Most brick and block products
are manufactured locally, reducing the amount of energy needed to
transport them.
Products that contain recycled material, and can be recycled again at the end
of their life. Examples include gypsum wallboard that can contain up to 90%
recycled content, and cellulose insulation that is made from recycled newspapers.
Bio-based and plant source material products such as bamboo, natural linoleum
and cotton insulation made from old blue jeans.
Cork and
bamboo flooring
Did you know that natural linoleum contains both
recycled and bio-based renewable material, and
lasts much longer than vinyl flooring?
16
made from resource efficient materials that use low amounts
ß Products
of energy to harvest and manufacture, such as most wood products.
products with low or no levels of Volatile Organic
ß Non-toxic
Compounds (VOCs) or other harmful gases.
and products that are durable and easy to maintain, reducing
ß Materials
the need to repair and replace them.
Many environmentally friendly building products are
certified by independent, third party organizations
making them easy to identify and helping to protect
the buyer from false claims. For example, the Forest
Stewardship Council (FSC) certifies wood from
sustainably managed forests—products made from
FSC certified wood are a growing segment of the
wood products market.
Cotton
insulation
made from
recycled
blue jeans.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
A green home is, by design, energy efficient.
This reduces operating costs and protects the occupants from the impact of
rising fuel and energy prices. Design considerations and features that incorporate
energy efficient principles include:
BUILDING SITE: A well sited home can take advantage of the
ß THE
winter sun for heating and trees to block winter winds.
BUILDING ENVELOPE: High levels of insulation, high
ß THE
performance windows and “tight” construction that reduces
air leakage and heat loss all contribute to above standard
performance. A well-sealed, well-insulated compact home can
be easily heated with a single heat source, such as a vented wall
mounted furnace, eliminating the need for pipes or ducts for
heat distribution.
SIP wall
construction
FRAMING SYSTEMS such as Optimum Value
ß EFFICIENT
Engineering (OVE) that optimize structural components based
on alignment and layout thereby eliminating unnecessary
framing and/or blocking, resulting in a higher ratio of
insulation space to framing material, raising the overall
thermal resistance (R value) of the wall or ceiling assembly.
FRAMING SYSTEMS such as insulated concrete
ß ALTERNATIVE
forms (ICF)* and structural insulated panels (SIPS)* to provide a
ICF wall &
foundation
construction
complete wall system, structure and insulation, in one package.
AND APPLIANCES: Energy efficient lighting,
ß FIXTURES
equipment, and appliances reduce electricity use—always look for the Energy
Star label. The Energy Star program rates the most efficient light fi xtures,
refrigerators, washers, dryers, and other appliances.
*Find definitions of asterisked items in the glossary.
17
RENEWABLE ENERGY
Renewable energy systems use the sun, wind, and
water to make electricity and solar energy for heat
and hot water. Once the home has been made as
energy efficient as possible, renewable energy
equipment may be considered a good investment.
State and federal government programs offer tax
rebates and incentives for renewable energy
equipment. Renewable energy options include:
(PV) cells, usually incorporated into panel arrays, convert
ß Photovoltaic
sunlight into electricity, which can be stored in batteries (DC power)
or connected to the electric power grid (AC power).
wind turbines operate in much the same way as PV systems.
ß Small
These systems tend to be more site specific because wind patterns
and availability vary widely.
hot water systems use a gas or transfer liquid to heat domestic
ß Solar
hot water. They can provide all or most of a home’s hot water
needs in the summer.
Energy Conversion
Solar PV Panels
Energy
Source
Energy
Inversion
18
Utility
Power
Home Power
Energy Use
Electric
Meter
Photovoltaic (PV) cells on community building roof of Capital Village,
a MaineHousing demonstration project.
INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY
Exhaust
Americans spend over 90% of their time indoors,
so it is important that this environment be as healthy
as possible. Elements that make up the indoor
environment include temperature, moisture content
or relative humidity, the air we breathe, and the
quality and quantity of daylight and the impact of
sound. Methods to achieve good indoor environmental
quality include:
Incoming
Fresh Air
the home toxic-free by building with low-VOC and non-toxic products
ß Keeping
is a healthy start. Non-toxic green cleaning products are widely available and
help to keep the indoors healthy. Low VOC paints, adhesives and sealants, and
formaldehyde-free plywood are available from many manufacturers.
good ventilation to rid the home of stale air and excess moisture is critical
ß Providing
for good indoor air quality. Excess moisture inside the home creates conditions for the
growth of mold and mildew.
Outgoing
Air
the ventilation to suit the home and its occupants. At a
ß Designing
minimum, a green home will have high efficiency, low sone (sone is a
Air-to-Air Heat
Exchanger
measurement of how quiet equipment is) fans vented to the outdoors
in the kitchen and all bathrooms. Tightly built homes may also need a
fresh air supply. Strategically placed passive, pressure operated vents
in the wall are one solution. Air to air heat exchangers are another
method of providing tempered fresh air. These exchangers, also known as
heat recovery ventilators, supply and exhaust air from a building, capturing
heat from the stale air and transferring it to the fresh outside air, saving
energy in the process.
radon, which is a colorless, odorless soil gas that can cause cancer
ß Controlling
in high concentrations, and is widespread in the Northeast. Radon can enter a
Exhaust
home through tiny cracks in the foundation. Radon removal systems vent soil gases
directly to the outdoors and are simple to install during a home’s construction.
19
GREENING AN
EXISTING HOME
Many of the innovative, green, and energy conserving
concepts in the previous pages can be integrated
into existing homes or home additions. Some are
easy, while others are best tackled as part of a larger
landscaping, renovation, or redecorating project.
A good first step is an energy audit*. An audit helps to determine where a home is
losing energy and how to plan energy improvements. There are two on-line audits
developed by the federal government: The Home Energy Saver and the US Department
of Energy Self-Guided Walk Through Audit. Links to both are in the Resources section
of this publication.
You can also hire a professional to conduct an energy audit of your home. The state
of Maine maintains a list of certified energy auditors. A link to that list is in the
Resources section of this publication.
In addition to an energy audit, here are some
simple things you can do to save energy and
green an existing home:
ß
ß
ß
ß
ß
ß
ß
ß
ß
ß
Park the car and walk or bicycle to explore your neighborhood. You can enjoy the scenery, exercise, and
get to know the neighbors all at the same time. If you live close to a bus line or to shops and services,
walk, bike, or bus for errands as often as you can.
Landscape to save energy. Place fir trees to the north and west of your home to divert prevailing winds
from those sides of the building. Th is reduces air pressure on cracks in the building that allow cold air
to enter. Leaf bearing trees to the south and east shade the building in summer, and allow passive solar
benefit in winter.
Plant rain gardens* or willow trees in wet areas. A full-grown willow transpires as much as 50 gallons of
water per hour to the atmosphere. Lawn swales divert rainwater away from buildings, keeping the site and
basement dry. A swale is a broad, shallow channel with vegetation covering the side slopes and bottom.
Plant with drought tolerant and native or adapted species that don’t need irrigation in dry areas. If you
need water for your garden, consider capturing and storing rainwater.
Install low-flow faucet aerators, one of the easiest ways to save money, water, and energy. Low cost
fi xtures reduce water and sewer use, and save energy needed to heat water. Consider a low-flow model
showerhead that uses 2 GPM (gallons per minute) or less. With many models, you can’t tell the
difference in pressure and flow.
Provide good walk-off mats and a place to take off outdoor shoes inside the main door. Up to 60% of
the pollutants in the home come in on our shoes.
Seal leaks and cracks inside the home by reducing or eliminating all unintentional openings in the
interior surface of the home, especially in upper story ceilings. The best time to do this is when
redecorating or renovating.
Avoid recessed lights. They should not be used in the top floor or if there is unconditioned space
directly above the ceiling where they will be installed.
Insulate and weatherstrip the attic access. Any attic access doors should be air sealed and insulated.
If possible, create attic access from the building exterior.
Use non-toxic cleaning products to maintain a healthy indoor environment.
More expensive retrofits will pay for themselves
in energy savings.
ß
ß
ß
ß
Front-Loading Washer
Photo: Whirlpool
*Find definitions of asterisked items in the glossary.
20
Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb
Seal all pipe and wire penetrations.
Replace outdated lighting and appliances including: refrigerators, washers, dryers, etc. with energy
efficient Energy Star rated models.
Replace leaky windows and doors with tighter fitting energy efficient units.
Install high efficiency, low sone vented fans in the kitchen and bathrooms.
Consider purchasing renewable energy equipment
ONLY after making the home as efficient as possible.
JUDGES
The five independent judges who selected the
best designs submitted to the Mainestream Green
Home Design contest represent a cross section of
professionals working in the housing field. They are
from throughout New England.
Lynn Mansfield,
a Senior Project Manager for Housing Vermont in
Burlington, a state-wide developer of affordable housing.
Mansfield has over 20 years experience in construction
management, predominately focused on multi-family
affordable rental housing. She was the project manager
for the Waterfront Housing Apartments, a 40-unit, new
construction, affordable housing project completed in the
fall of 2004 that received the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design
(LEED) Certification, one of only a handful of commercial facilities in the nation
with that distinction.
Betsy Pettit,
A.I.A., President of Building Science Corporation in
Westford, Massachusetts. She is a registered architect with
more than 25 years of professional experience, and holds
a BA in Environmental Design from Miami University
in Ohio and a Master of Architecture from North
Carolina State University. Prior to her current position
she was a project architect and manager for several Boston
architectural firms. She currently is involved as project
manager for Building Science Consortium’s Building America project that involves
system design for more than 2,000 high performance houses nationwide.
Bill Rowles,
Project Development Manager for Wright-Ryan Construction,
Inc. in Portland. Rowles has over 30 years experience in the
construction industry. He began his career as a carpenter,
moving to foreman, superintendent, project manager, senior
project manager, estimator, and pre-construction manager.
Rowles has a personal and professional commitment to
sustainability and green construction. He is chair of WrightRyan’s Sustainability Committee and serves on the Board of Directors and the Program
Committee of the Maine Chapter of the United States Green Building Council.
Chris Schaffner,
the founder of The Green Engineer, a sustainable design
consulting firm in Acton, Massachusetts. He has been a
member of the US Green Building Council faculty since
2001, training more than 2,600 professionals in the use
of the LEED rating system. He has taught classes at the
Boston Architectural Center in Boston and the Ben Franklin
Institute of Technology, and speaks often at conferences on
the issues of sustainable design and energy efficiency.
Wiebke Noack Theodore,
a LEED accredited professional and a member of the
US Green Building Council. She currently teaches at the
Architectural Design Studio and a course on Architecture
and Sustainability at Bowdoin College. She holds a Masters
of Architecture from Columbia University, Graduate School
of Architecture, and is a graduate of Barnard College. In
partnership with her husband, Steven Theodore, their work
out of their downtown Bath office has been recognized by the
Northeast Sustainable Energy Association in Solar/Electric Design for the Center for
Environmental Education at Chewonki in Wiscasset. They won Maine AIA Awards
for Excellence in Architecture in 1993 and 1989. Currently the Theodores are working
on an affordable Housing Cooperative in Bath.
21
RESOURCES
GREEN BUILDING DESIGNS, PRODUCTS,
AND MATERIALS ARE INCREASINGLY
AVAILABLE IN THE MARKETPLACE.
The resources listed below will help you either build or
design a green home or retrofit your existing home.
California Integrated Waste Management
Board Green Guidelines
www.ciwmb.ca.gov/greenbuilding
INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
Energy Efficient Building Association
www.eeba.org
Maine Indoor Air Quality Council
www.miaqc.org
ENERGY AUDITS
The Green Matrix
www.greenmatrix.net/index.html
National Center for Healthy Housing
www.centerforhealthyhousing.org
US Department of Energy
www.eere.energy.gov
NATIVE PLANTS AND GREEN SITE DESIGN
Home Energy Saver
hes.lbl.gov
Maine Certified Energy Auditors
www.mainehousing.org
US Department of Energy
Walk Through Audit
www.eere.energy.gov/consumer/your_home/
energy_audits/index.cfm/mytopic=11170
ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND
RENEWABLE ENERGY
American Solar Energy Society
www.ases.org
American Council for an
Energy Efficient Economy
www.aceee.org
GREEN BUILDING MATERIALS
The Green Store
www.greenstore.com
Building Green
www.buildinggreen.com
Hancock Lumber
www.hancocklumber.com
Maine Green Building Supply
www.energy-innovation.com
University of Maine Cooperative
Extension Service
www.umext.maine.edu
Guide to Native Plants
www.umext.maine.edu/onlinepubs/htmpubs/2500.htm
Maine Natural Areas Program at the
Department of Conservation
www.mainenaturalareas.org/index.php
SMART GROWTH COMMUNITY
PLANNING TO AVOID SPRAWL
Smart Growth
www.smartgrowth.org
GREEN TOPICS—GENERAL
Growsmart Maine
www.growsmartmaine.org
Global Green
www.globalgreen.org
WATER SAVING FIXTURES,
APPLIANCES AND TECHNOLOGIES
GREEN BUILDING
Northeast Sustainable Energy Association
www.nesea.org
Building America
www.eere.energy.gov/buildings/building_america
Rocky Mountain Institute
www.rmi.org
American Council for an
Energy Efficient Economy
www.aceee.org
Energy Star
www.energystar.gov
Maine Energy Investment Corporation
www.renewmaine.org
Building Science Corporation
www.buildingscience.com
22
U.S. Green Building Council
www.usgbc.org
Home Ventilating Institute
www.hvi.org
H2ouse
www.h2ouse.net
GLOSSARY
ADVANCED FRAMING: Framing techniques designed to reduce the amount of
lumber used and waste generated in the construction of a wood framed house. These
include: spacing wall studs, floor joists, and rafters 24 inches on center, using two-stud
corners, and eliminating headers in non-load-bearing walls. Advanced framing is also
known as Optimized Value Engineering (OVE).
BLOWER DOOR/BLOWER DOOR TESTING: Th is equipment consists
of a powerful, variable-speed fan with a speed controller mounted in an adjustable
panel that is temporarily fitted into an open exterior doorway. A set of manometers or
differential pressure gauges is used to measure pressure differences between inside and
outside generated by the fan. Airflow across a calibrated opening in the fan housing is
also measured.
The blower door test places a home under a known pressure and then measures how
much airflow is required to maintain the pressure difference between indoors and
outdoors. The tighter the house, the less air the blower door must move to maintain a
given pressure. Besides measuring the airtightness of the house, it also helps to pinpoint
specific air leaks.
COMMISSIONING: Building commissioning is the systematic examination and
testing of a building’s mechanical systems, to ensure that they are designed and installed
to perform according to the design intent and the building owner’s operational needs.
The commissioning of new buildings is most effective when considered as early as
schematic design and then used throughout the planning stages.
ENERGY AUDIT: A method of assessing where and how energy is used in a home or
business to determine the best strategies to conserve energy and reduce energy costs
ENERGY STAR: A joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and
the U.S. Department of Energy helping us all save money and protect the environment
through energy efficient products and practices.
INSULATED CONCRETE FORMS (ICF): Foam forms that are filled with
reinforced concrete and reinforcement bar (rebar) to create insulated structural walls both
below and above grade. The insulating foam is commonly expanded polystyrene (EPS)
or extruded polystyrene (XPS). The three basic form types are hollow foam blocks, foam
planks held together with plastic ties, and 4 x 8 panels with integral foam or plastic ties.
PERMEABLE PAVING: Durable, load bearing paving material that allows water to
enter the ground beneath it. Permeable paving is typically installed over a crushed stone
base designed to store rainwater until it is able to infiltrate into the underlying soil.
RAIN GARDENS: These are depressions or low tracts of land filled with crushed
stone, soil, and plants. The vegetation is designed to absorb and store rainwater runoff
from impervious surfaces such as roofs and parking areas. Rain gardens lend themselves
to a variety of designs— they can be small or large, formal or informal, and are an
attractive way to reduce stress on storm drains and replenish groundwater.
RAINFALL HARVESTING: The collection and storage of rainwater from roofs or
other hard surfaces to be used for irrigation or other human activities where potable water
is not required, such as flushing toilets.
STRUCTURAL INSULATED PANELS (SIPS): Composite panel building
systems that provide structural framing, insulation, and exterior sheathing in one
component. SIPS are usually made with a thick layer of foam —either polystyrene or
polyurethane —sandwiched between two layers of oriented strand board (OSB), plywood,
or fiber-cement. As an alternative to the foam core, SIPS have been manufactured with a
core of cellulose or agricultural fibers such as wheat straw. Another name for Structural
Insulated Panels is Stress Skin Panels.
THERMAL ENVELOPE: The enclosure created by the building exterior frame and
insulation to enclose the conditioned space (heated or cooled). Improving the thermal
envelope is one of the most important aspects to creating an energy efficient home.
VEGETATED ROOF: Also called living roof or green roof, this is a roof area partially
or fully covered by a layer of living plants. These plantings can be extensive—with a
shallow growth medium under 6 inches deep—or intensive—with a growth medium
deep enough to support larger plants, shrubs and even small trees. Vegetated roofs help
control stormwater runoff, improve air quality, and conserve energy.
VOLATILE ORGANIC COMPOUNDS (VOC): These compounds are emitted as
gases from certain solids or liquids. VOCs include a variety of chemicals, some of which
may have short- and long-term adverse health effects. Concentrations of many VOCs are
consistently higher indoors (up to ten times higher) than outdoors. VOCs are emitted by
a wide array of products. Examples include: paints and lacquers, paint strippers, cleaning
supplies, pesticides, building materials and furnishings, office equipment such as copiers
and printers, correction fluids and carbonless copy paper, graphics and craft materials
including glues and adhesives, permanent markers, and photographic solutions.
23
RECOGNITION
This publication is made possible through the generous support of our contest sponsors and endorsers.
GOLD
GREEN
UBS Financial Services
FannieMae
Federal Home Loan
Bank of Boston
Wishcamper Companies, Inc.
& Preservation Management
BuildingGreen, Inc.
FISC Solutions
Integrity Windows and Doors/
A.W. Hastings & Co.
Kennebunk Savings Bank
Machias Savings Bank
SILVER
Paradigm Windows
Bear Stearns & Co. Inc.
BRONZE
Hawkins Delafield
& Wood LLP
TD Banknorth
Sustainable Buildings
Industry Council (SBIC)
FRIENDS OF
THE CONTEST
Bank of America
Berman Associates
Franklin Savings Bank
Merrill Lynch & Co.
Lapchick Baron
24
RECOGNITION
ENDORSERS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Special thanks to the following contributors to this publication.
Alliance to Save Energy
American Lung Association of Maine
Asthma Regional Council
Environment Maine
Kathy Poulin
MaineHousing, Editor
Danuta Drozdowicz
Fore Solutions
Dan Simpson
MaineHousing
Don McGilvery
MaineHousing
Linnea Rogers
MaineHousing
This publication is available online at www.mainehousing.org
Home Builders & Remodelers
Association of Maine
Maine Construction Specifications Institute
Maine Energy Investment Corporation
Maine Interfaith Power and Light
Natural Resources Council of Maine
353 Water Street
Augusta, ME 04330-4633
(207) 626.4600
(800) 452.4668
Fax (207) 626.4678
TTY (800) 452.4603
Natural Resources Defense Council
Northeast Sustainable Energy Association
US Green Building Council, Maine Chapter
Vermont Energy Investment Corp.
Maine State Housing Authority
Maine State Housing Authority (“MaineHousing”) does not discriminate on the basis of race, color,
religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, or
familial status in the admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its programs, and
activities. MaineHousing will provide appropriate communication auxiliary aids and services
upon sufficient notice. MaineHousing will also provide this document in alternative formats upon
sufficient notice. MaineHousing has designated the following person responsible
for coordinating compliance with applicable federal and state nondiscrimination
requirements and addressing grievances: Jodie Stevens, Maine State Housing
Authority, 353 Water Street, Augusta, Maine 04330-4633, Telephone Number
(207) 626-4600 or 1-800-452-4668 (voice), or 1-800-452-4603 (TTY).
25
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