Advanced Green Building Technology
Solar
Water Heaters
increase energy efficiency, thereby
decreasing electricity consumption and lowering power
bills.
Healthy Built
Better Air to Breathe
Formaldehyde-free cabinetry and insulation improves indoor air
quality. Interior finishes are non-toxic. Earthpaint
is manufactured
from local ingredients in Asheville, NC. Eco-friendly Cabinets
are made
with plywood and water-based finishes which don't emit
hazardous chemicals.
Affordable
Less wasted space means more livable area for
less cost.
Innovative use of closet space as a thermal buffer maximizes
efficiency. In the infrared picture, the closet door on the right is
closed while the left is open. The color difference equates to energy
savings.
The Bee Tree Residence is Franklin,
North Carolina and Macon County's
FIRST certified green
home. It is
featured in a
short video on
YouTube and
on
www.wintersunllc.com.
The house is
Energy Star
Certified 5+ Stars and
Healthy
Built Home Gold, both highest possible honors. Compared to an
average house, this residence will save 40% on power bills monthly
for
life. Green building began with
passive
solar design by placing the house on the site to take
advantage of
the
sloping lot and
to rely on the sun’s position for heating and cooling. Super insulated
panel walls and extensive air sealing produced a house that is sealed
and performs like a refrigerator. Indoor air quality is improved with
proper ventilation and non-toxic finishes and materials. A
solar
hot water
heater further
reduces energy consumption and contributes to the home’s performance.
A Winter Sun green home reduces homeowner’s energy bills and
future costs, minimizes the building’s environmental impact, and
affects the family’s health for the better.
Passive Solar Design
Let in the warming winter sun while
blocking the harsh summer sun. This photo, taken in November, shows
sunlight warming the master bedroom. During the summer, the sun climbs
higher in the sky and the overhangs shade these windows keeping the
room cool.
Air Sealing
The most effective way to increase a building's efficiency is
with proper air sealing. This will keep conditioned air where you are
paying for it: inside! Don't spend thousands on other "energy savers"
while hundreds slip out through small cracks. A Winter Sun
residence exhibits this high level of craftmanship.
Super Insulated Structure
Structural Insulated Panels ensure an airtight and super
insulated structure. These panels far outperform a traditional stud
frame wall and eliminate other problems like thermal bridging in
spray-foam construction. A SIP roof brings even greater levels of
efficiency and air-tightness.
Closed Crawlspace
Conditioned crawlspaces are filled with conditioned air to
maintain positive pressure and low humidity levels. This system is
superior to a traditional vented crawlspace which allows moisture-laden
air to enter and accumulate. All seams are sealed with glue and a
radon mitigation system is installed.
Adequate Ventilation
Ducts are tested for air tightness. An airtight house demands
proper ventilation. Energy Recovery Ventilators bring in fresh,
filtered air and blend it with heated and cooled air. This system
also helps to manage humidity of the incoming air.
Third Party Testing
Independent verification of green claims is required
for Energy Star
and Healthy
Built Certifications. Adequate ventilation is
extremely important to ensure the health of occupants, maintain
comfortable temperature and humidity and maximize energy savings. Tests
are performed by Vandemusser Design.
Winter Sun Construction, LLC
