It is important to consider the type of home you are going to build. Air-tight homes can benefit you greatly. Check out the resources below: |
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|  The TechniquesPerformance-built techniques include the installation of a whole-house ventilation system that will help to prevent premature structural deterioration by controlling wood rot, mold and mildew. This system reduces the chance of illness and helps keep nasty allergies at bay. It also has a healthy effect on utility bills. Consumers have reported a 65% reduction in their energy consumption. High-efficiency Heating and Cooling Equipment
To help ensure the lowest possible heating and cooling costs, Schultz Construction uses energy-saving electric heat pumps with variable speed fan coils. Additional savings are gained by using electric water heaters that carry a lifetime warranty. By using electric heat pumps and electric water heaters, the risk of deadly gasses back drafting into the home is eliminated. Schultz offers a three-year service warranty on mechanical equipmentEnergy-efficient Thermal ShellAn energy-efficient thermal shell controls the infiltration of both air and moisture through the exterior shell of the house. Elements include: Pella Low-E Glass - Reduces heat loss by 37% when compared with clear glass and cuts down on ultraviolet rays which reduces fading of carpets, draperies, furniture, wall coverings and paint. [Learn more at pella.com]- Icynene Spray Foam - Insulation sprayed into exterior walls reduces infiltration by 66%. This is significant since infiltration can attribute up to 40% of heating and cooling costs. The Icynene system also reduces external noise.
- Continuous Air-Vapor Barrier on Ceilings - All joints in the polyethylene sheets are taped. This reduces movement of moisture and maintains integrity of the building shell.
- Exterior Air Barrier - This barrier reduces infiltration and moisture into the house and helps ensure structural integrity to moisture, mildew and rotting.
- Sealing Bypasses - All plate areas, corners, headers and where the wall meets the floor are caulked. In addition, airtight electrical boxes attached to exterior walls reduce air infiltration and moisture movement.
- Insulating Basement Walls - Basement walls are the second largest contributors to heat loss in a home. The combination of the firring out of all concrete walls, proper insulation and the implementation of a continuous vapor barrier ensure energy-efficiency of your home.
Other Performance-built Features
Engineered truss joints |
Combustion Safety - There are no flues or chimneys which prevents the back drafting of carbon monoxide poisoning.- Engineered Truss Joists - Prevents squeaky floors, floor deflection and allows heating and plumbing lines to be installed between floors.
- Sealed and Vented Sump Basin - Prevents moisture and radon migration into the living space.
- Electrical Systems - State-of-the-art system that includes airtight recessed lighting and multiple telephone lines for computer accessibility.
 Continuous Recovery Ventilation - Promotes healthy indoor air quality and moisture control year round.- High-efficiency equipment and sealed duct system - Coupled with electric heat pumps and airtight construction, this system reduces the annual heating and cooling costs 50 to 70%.
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