EarthCraft Virginia provides a certification process for new, residential construction that serves as a blueprint for healthy, comfortable homes that reduce utility bills and protect the environment. This state-wide program is a partnership between Southface Energy Institute the Home Builders Association of Virginia.
The EarthCraft program was created approximately ten years ago, in Atlanta, Georgia, by collaboration of Southface Energy Institute and the Atlanta Home Builders Association. With national recognition and respect as a technically sound, voluntary green building program, EarthCraft House allows builders to raise the bar in quality construction, growth management and environmental stewardship.
To date, in Georgia, EarthCraft House has certified over 4000 homes. The EarthCraft House Program was brought to Virginia in 2006 to fill the need for an established green building process. With over 80 builders here in Virginia and growing, it is estimated that 300 homes will certify in 2008, coupled with over 30 multi-family projects representing over 1500 units.
How It Works?
Builders are guided through a design review to identify site planning and construction decisions. A holistic, point-based worksheet is adopted addressing all aspects of energy efficiency, durability, indoor air quality, resource efficiency, waste management, and water conservation. The worksheet provides an array of options that can be combined in various formulas to make projects certifiably green. An energy analysis confirms that each home will meet a higher standard and prove a 15% reduction in energy consumption over 2004 IECC. Ongoing third party verification ensures quality, from site preparation to final diagnostic house testing.
Why Build EarthCraft?
EarthCraft promotes diligent air sealing of the building envelope and its mechanical systems while still allowing for fresh air intake. Air sealing at little additional cost, provides a tighter building envelope and thus homes are more energy efficient and less costly to occupy. Because homes are tight and properly balanced, pollutants are eliminated, resulting in better indoor air quality. Resource efficient materials such as concrete with fly ash, cellulose insulation, carpet pad and carpet containing recycled materials are some of the options builders and homeowners can choose to defer wastes from landfills. With windows and insulation levels that meet or exceed conventional code requirements, water conservation measures, and the use of ENERGY STAR appliances, utility bills remain low after move-in. Homeowners boast of comfort and the security of owning a durable home. Not only is the EarthCraft certification healthy for the environment, but it’s healthy for the homeowner and their wallet.
ELEMENTS OF EARTHCRAFT HOUSE VIRGINIA
EarthCraft Virginia allows builders great flexibility in achieving environmental performance. These are some of the most common measures builders choose to earn EarthCraft Virginia certification.
