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Making buildings more sustainable is a big part of addressing climate change impacts. Green building experts are doing this with innovative water-smart techniques. New builds and renovations require attentiveness to water consumption to curb resource waste and eliminate scarcity. Here is how professionals are tackling the problem.

Permeable Pavement Systems

Smarter building options can control stormwater management. Systems that force water to percolate into groundwater aquifers are essential for recharging reserves. 

Runoff is a constant concern, moving pollutants and other contaminants to places they should not go. Construction experts have several permeable pavement options to choose from to combat these situations, including but not limited to:

• Pervious concrete
• Porous asphalt
• Permeable interlocking concrete pavement

Flat surfaces like parking lots and driveways are the best places to install these materials, which could improve stormwater reduction by 25%-100% when implemented correctly. Permeable pavers lower flood risk and keep water clean.

Smart Water Distribution Systems

Professionals should design new households and complexes with water-smart infrastructure. Ideally, piping should not be responsible for holding too much hot water to preserve the equipment. Instead, water should recirculate from a safe source when demand arises instead of on a cycling timer. 

Construction installers can automate pressure regulation by installing smart water distribution systems with valves and sensors that prevent overuse. The Environmental Protection Agency also recommends WaterSense-labeled products with fixtures that use less water than other models.

Smart water distribution also includes future-proof solutions. Copious waste occurs because of leaks. However, the industry has ground-based detection methods to catch leaks early. For instance, acoustic loggers create sound profiles of vulnerable areas and data that visualize the system and where repairs are necessary at a cheaper cost than satellite imaging. Ensuring compatibility with these sensors is essential.

Efficient Irrigation Systems

Sprinklers and other common lawn landscaping irrigation systems use billions of gallons of water, and 50% is lost to evaporation and runoff. Refining indoor water management is crucial. However, it is also necessary to perfect water management outdoors. 

Builders have several ways to achieve this, depending on the geography and climate. Xeriscaping — or irrigation-reducing landscaping — relies on drought-resistant species to reduce watering needs. These plants are biologically adapted to live with less moisture. 

There are also specific irrigation technologies. Sensor-based options can detect moisture and rain in the air, halting sprinklers if needed and saving water. Additional soil markers will inform connected devices when the moisture lowers to the point of needing attention. Professionals can install drip or micro-irrigation systems that more precisely and directly disperse water. 

Finally, irrigation zones can prevent over- and underwatering of particular species. If workers group plants with similar demands, everything receives adequate water, saving people from guesswork.

Smarter Materials

Conventional construction components need a lot of water to reach a usable state. When renovating or starting a new construction, workers can use water-smart resources. These include:

• Dry mortar
• Fly ash instead of concrete
• Additives with lower water ratios

Experts have even designed curing techniques inspired by drip irrigation — known as drip curing — to help concrete maintain compressive strength while using less water.

Rainwater Harvesting Systems

Rainwater harvesting is one of the best ways to use free resources. Construction workers can encourage barrels and other setups in a few ways. They can install capturing systems — like gutters — to control water flow into a specific area. Then, filtration equipment can pull out any debris. 

Some people may avoid installing rainwater barrels because of safety concerns. Professionals and service providers can educate clients on using barrels and what treatment options are available. Water-wise communities also need this knowledge to follow local water-use regulations, especially if other water reserves are on their property. 

Water-Efficient Landscapes

Smart irrigation is a way of conserving water in landscapes, but there are many other ways for construction experts to help households save even more gallons. First, they can draft landscaping blueprints using the WaterSense Water Budget Tool, which provides a clear picture of how the land will operate with certain design choices. The foresight prevents excess resource consumption and having to redo work.

Water-wise landscapers will also make use of compost and mulch. Compost reinforces soil so it better retains water. It also reduces runoff risk while making the land healthier. Mulch is another moisture-retention strategy, but experts should remind clients to avoid rubber variants despite their aesthetically pleasing colors, as they provide no water conservation benefits.

Additionally, contractors can advise on how to grade soil for the best chances of smart water management. There should be a reasonable balance of flat ground with enough slope to guide flow when necessary.

Making Waves in Construction

These techniques are only a handful of ways construction workforces can tackle water waste to deliver immediate environmental benefits while saving households money on utility bills. Eventually, the efforts will establish new standards, making worldwide communities more resourceful.

Each week, we host a free CEU Webinar at noon EST, and many questions remain unanswered, so we invite the speaker(s) to follow up and address these questions.

Here are the answers for Down to Earth Affordable Housing – Natural & Low Energy Builds

If you haven’t already watched the recording or attended live, please do so now and then review the questions below. You can still post additional questions right into our YouTube comments, and they may be answered. Need continuing education? Visit this link to watch the video and take the quiz.

Participants gained a rich understanding of sustainable building materials and techniques, especially the practical applications of straw bale construction, cork insulation, double stud walls, and vapor-open assemblies without sheathing. Many noted surprise and excitement about using natural, local, and low-carbon materials such as hemp, cork, and adobe in modern construction. Several appreciated learning cost-comparison insights, the design-build approach, and creative solutions like diagonal furring and homemade plaster panels. Participants were particularly inspired by real-world examples of affordable housing using ecological materials. As for lingering questions, respondents were curious about further implementation details, such as how to make plaster walls, feasibility of diagonal strapping in seismic zones, limiting subcontractor use for affordability, and understanding building code requirements versus alternative methods. Many also expressed a desire to volunteer, explore these methods further, and incorporate them into their own practices.

Question:

Hello, and thanks for presenting. Love the idea of straw bale and alternative wall systems, but the worry about air-tightness and moisture management always rears its head. Could you explain what steps you take in this type of construction to mitigate those issues?

Answer:

Straw is mainly composed of cellulose and lignin. It is basically the same as make up as wood, hemp, paper but at different densities. You take the same preparation you would for any natural material or any building. The only different is that failures happen faster with less dense material such as straw. Straw bale and natural finder based structures fail because of poor detailing and construction precaution, not because of the material. These problems are very common on conventional building sites and designs too. Keeping any natural fiber based materials 12” above grade is the first step, and then detailing well for bulk moisture (roofs, flashing, plumbing leaks, etc). Air tightness with straw bale can be achieved with a smart vapor barrier or with detailing the plaster with “plaster fins” so cracks don’t compromise the air control layer.

 

Question:

How do you make your own cement boards? Answer:

We made our on “ClayWall” Panels using 24x48x3/4” flat forms. We laid in burlap as a skin

and then added the clay/adobe plaster mix just like you would do for baking brownies. Then it would dry in a rack for 2-4 days.

 

Question:

What kind of window performance do you try to get with these buildings? double pane? triple pane?

 

We only use “Passive House” certified windows and doors [PHI or PHIUS]. That guarantees a performance level and I don’t have to even think about. There is no other standard in the USA that I trust.

 

Question:

Let’s try to get PVCs out of our interiors in these projects, you’re compromising your IAQ Answer:

I agree about using or eliminating PVC from construction but it is very challenging. I have

built a home that was 99% PVC but there is a lot of extra cost and time. PVC is in so many products including the ones homeowners will fill their home with after you are finished.

Plumbing and electrical is peppered with PVC. There is a premium cost for other materials for windows unfortunately. We try to use Fiberglass windows instead or on high end projects, natural wood. Regarding IAQ, our monitoring has shown no evidence of

off-gassing form PVC but then we are probably not looking deeply enough. I am not aware of a specific way to monitor that. Fire and PVC is the main danger I am aware of. The health and safety of firefighters is certainly something we consider in our material choices.

 

Question:

How did you handle shear during construction before installing the diagonal strapping? Answer:

Temporary interior bracing

Question:

What was the CFM leakage of building envelope? I know ACH is used for compliance, but I prefer the envelope leakage rate

Answer:

70 cfm

 

Question:

Could you elaborate on the best practices for connecting an external strawbale wall to an internal framed wall?

Answer:

Plastic baling strap. I will add: I would put the bale on the inside and have the less durable plaster on the exterior. Exterior plaster requires maintenance and can only be installed 6 months of the year in our climate. With the plaster to the interior, you can also do a range of conventional finishes on a rainscreen on the exterior and plaster indoors all year round.

 

Question:

Was the laundry tambour door custom-made or a commercial product? Answer:

Donated! We got lucky

 

Question:

Do u have a $/sq ft cost for these houses and a $/sqft operating cost? Answer:

This is a common question and one that is very hard to answer. Typically the person asking

is trying to figure out if they can afford to build like this and compare it to conventional construction costs. There are SOOOO many variables (on any construction project) and it is very site and resource specific. This was a Habitat for Humanity build so most of the labor was free but unskilled. We attempted to track hours (and skill level factor) so we could answer these questions. We had limited success. If you have a particular project in mind, please contact me for guidance. Having said that, this house was 960 sq ft and it cost the homeowner $210k. So $2.18 per sqft. In 2019. Without land value included. If we were to build this house today, for market rate, using our systems and Design/Build integration process, I would guess; without land, in a city with utilities at the property line, in our current industrial climate, $400-500 per sqft. That is specific to Gunnison, Colorado. If I was to build in Crested Butte, 20 miles up the road, I would say $800 per square foot. It is that site specific.

 

Question:

Why no pv on main roof on hopi project? Answer:

There is a 5kw system on that roof but perhaps not at the time that picture you seen was

taken. It also has as a homemade solar thermal how water panel made from a recycled HWH tank, patio door and cork insulation. It provides the hot water 8-10 months of the year. There is a supplemental electric on demand HWH or back up .

 

Question:

Looks like mento membrane is applied directly onto studs? Then covered w/ layer of 45° furring strips. Any concerns of membrane tearing w/ no sheathing layer supporting it (especially during construction)? How to 45° furring strips provide ventilation / drainage plane behind cladding – are they perforated?

Answer:

Definitely a concern with tearing during construction and I would not specify it unless it was a crew who understood to report accidental penetrations or better yet, fix them. We put self selfing tape under each screw. The 45 degree braces do not have drainage behind because the amount of water that could penetrate and run down that plane is negotiable and the wood will dry quickly behind that well vented rainscreen cavity. If you were concerned you could simply add a vertical spacer batten on the inside in the center of the bay to allow for a large continues quantity for bulk moisture. It that situation, I would have other concerns! Are you thinking driving rain in coastal Maine?!

 

Question:

Have Cillian and other folks on the call seen or heard of prefabricated straw-panel walls being imported to the United States through the design and build, consulting firm BuildWithNature.us ?

Answer:

There are a few in Europe but now also some available in the USA. A great resource for that is “Builders For Climate Action” and New Frameworks: https://www.newframeworks.com/ They are teaching people how to start their own straw panel businesses! Importing straw bale panels from Europe is insane in my opinion. A good first step to make them available but the local industry has a huge opportunity if there is a market for that.

 

Question:

This stone work on the Hopi project are beautiful Answer:

I know, they are very talented folks! Hand quarried.

 

Question:

Any mass in hopi project? Answer:

Lots of thermal mass in the adobe floor and the adobe/stone walls

 

Question:

Is the kitchen in the hopi project concrete? Answer:

Yes, it’s a site built concrete countertop. Personally, I think a local lumber wooden

countertop is a lot less work, lower impact and reusable. I also don’t love the aesthetic but that’s a personal preference.

 

Question:

How do you avoid pressure treated lumber where walls meet concrete foundations or slabs?

Answer:

Plastic or metal flashing capillary breaks. Non porous stone can work too, just like in the old days! Sills were typically granite of dance stone in historic construction. Concrete is porous and that was the reason PT lumber was invented.

 

Question:

Induction stoves are up to 10% more efficient than conventional electric ranges + can boil water 20-40% faster (See EnergyStar) The responsive control of the induction stove is critical for transitioning the culinary industry to a low carbon future.

As Rewiring America notes, 90% of induction stove heat transfers to cookware (only 74% conventional elec. stove)

REFERENCES:

Chef Christopher Galarza

https://www.linkedin.com/in/chef-christopher-galarza-cec-cca-ecc-wcec-8a632742/ Rewiring America:

https://homes.rewiringamerica.org/articles/induction/induction-stoves-vs-electric-stoves EnergyStar:

https://www.energy.gov/articles/making-switch-induction-stoves-or-cooktops#:~:text=Inducti on%20appliances%20are%20up%20to,pollution%20associated%20with%20energy%20gen eration.

Answer:

Induction is great way to cook but not a huge energy saver. An extra PV solar panel easily offsets its impact and is a better use of money, currently.

 

Question:

In general, is it easy nowadays to find reclaimed materials? Has an industry spring up that reclaims materials?

Answer:

Typical reclaimed materials is an expensive and boutique industry. In my experience, it is not a big solution for reducing environmental impact. We need to look at large systems and how to redirect the impact of the construction industry as a whole. Materials & Practices that store carbon

 

Question:

Please Name the Window Company you claim as R-7. Answer:

FG windows; “Zenith” from Alpen Windows. Tyrol PVC doors (They don’t make a FG door

unfortunately)

 

Question:

Could you provide some information on where to source the cork insulation you used? Answer:

Small Planet Supply (West Coast). Great folks! Cork is fantastic but it is expensive. I wish

there were cork forest anywhere they could grow! East coast: Eco Supply Center Question:

Could you speak more about the 1st house strawbale + framed wall? [see G.T. question, above]

+

Could you speak more / share detail for window thermally broken with cork? [several homes discussed including last Granville, Vermont]

Answer:

2×6 (full size rough cut lumber) load bearing exterior wall with cellulose insulation [R-21] and 14” straw bale [R-30] with let in interior stud for lath and opening support. The cork is a thermal break between the exterior leaf of the double stud and the intro leaf. I don’t think it is really that necessary if you have a vapor open, super airtight envelope strategy.

 

Question:

Do you have a course and book available for purchase concerning affordable housing with Earth?

Answer:

I personally am unpublished! There are many books out there but I would need specific to guide you in any particular way. I am happy to consult on projects with folks who values align. The Natural Building Companion (Ace & Deva) & Building Better Buildings (Chris Magwood) are great all around.

 

Question:

Is the greenhouse space on that one house considered part of the conditioned envelope? If not, could one draw fresh air from the greenhouse as a pre-conditioner for an ERV?

Answer:

Great Question! It’s a bit of a blurred line. I was working with the HTP’s previous building strategy which did not at all account of air leakage or vapor barrier. I would cautiously say; “yes”…

 

Question:

Do you have any performance data (operational energy + embodied carbon) comparing Pikes Peak, CO 2×6 cavity insulation + exterior R-10 vs. Gunnison, CO strawbale + framed/cellulose?

Answer:

That’s a deep question with lots of variables. Good place to start is to find the Heating degree days [HDD]. It’s the easiest way to compare heating requirements for a particular climate. heating degree days.net. Skip to the end: we need to storage as much carbon as possible every chance we get. We don’t always “Need” passive house levels of insulation but that’s our best chance to reduce and potentially even reverse cabron impact. I would have to evaluate your specific situation to give a better answer.

 

Question:

How does the straw bale breathe with an exterior air / moisture barrier? I have only used bale in a breathing wall application, with air barrier only in the past

Answer:

When we say “breathable” wall, we are talking about two different things. A wall does not breath. People do and they need to breath inside our buildings. We need intentional mechanical ventilation in our buildings to be able to control what we breath (think forest fires and air borne viruses). I think you are referring to “perimbility”, meaning the rate at which water vapor specifically can pass through a material or an item. A wall needs to be designed and constructed in such a way that moisture behavior is considered and predicted. Air tightness is the best guarantee of restricting moisture from entering your wall. Having vapor open materials and barrier in that wall (in a dry climate) is the best way to insure long term durability. Avoiding thermal bridging and condensation is important but less so if all you materials can get wet AND dry easily. In our envelope, the exterior of the envelope has “Mento” air control layer which has a permeability rating [Perms] of 40. That is a very high drying potential. By comparison, plywood is general considered 8 perms and OSB less and 1. In hot/wet/cold climates (think North Carolina), you must think about how to keep vapor out of your envelope/house from the OUTSIDE climate in the summer as your AC will create a drier climate inside and thus wet wants to go to dry.

 

Question:

Up to 10% savings ( that’s my point is overhyped) on induction generally not worth it especially if u have elec stove. may b worth it for replacing gas for a variety of reasons on new const maybe ok if u can put up with probs and don’t want a reused coil elec stove

Answer:

See above. In my opinion, not a 1,000 gorilla. Definitely replace gas with electric for IAQ reasons

 

Question:

What is a good (or the best) way to incorporate continuous exterior insulation withOUT using foam? What environmentally friendly or sustainable product(s) are recommended? I know Rockwool is carbon intensive. Thank you.

Answer:

No great solutions that are affordable. The process of wrapping your building with exterior insulation is a labor problem. Double stud construction passes for continuous insulation. I don’t know of a cheaper, faster, lower carbon way to build a high performance wall. Thick walls with natural finders equal carbon sequestion. More the better! If Hubbard started making a high perm, formaldehyde free plywood sheathing panel with R-5 natural fiber insulation attached to it, that would be a great start! Vapor open, thermally broken carbon neutral sheathing ready for taping. Imagine that!

 

Question:

What do you think about buying down a soft-second mortgage? Have you used that before? Answer:

I don’t know what that is. If you are referring to a revived recent trend of bundling a

construction loan for energy upgrades into your utility bill, I say RUN AWAY!

Each week, we host a free CEU Webinar at 12 pm EST and many questions remain or do not get fully answered so we invite the speaker(s) to follow up and answer these questions.

Here are the answers for Intro to becoming a Qualified Energy Rater and working with one

“There were several great questions raised in the Q&A tool and several interesting topics raised in the Chat area.  This email is to share the answers and offline discussions with all of you.  Please feel free to reach out with any additional questions, or just to chat.  Our passion is education and our focus is making you successful!

Q1: The course for international energy rater will be for how many hours as I am assuming it will be for total 20 hours ( as 4 hours of formal training in each of the following: building science, 4 hrs in blower door testing, 4 hrs in air sealing inspections, 4 hrs in insulation inspections, and 4 hrs in duct leakage testing)

A1: The on-demand portion of the course is 12 hours (4 hours in Building Science Fundamentals: https://energysmartinstitute.com/building-science-fundamentals/, 4 hours each in Air Sealing Inspections and Insulation Inspections: course link coming very soon – keep an eye on the course catalog: https://energysmartinstitute.com/course-catalog/.  (the full 12 hour course is available here: https://energysmartinstitute.com/12-hours-of-leed-qualified-energy-rater-training/ – this is an early version that has quite a bit of bonus content so runs a bit longer than the required 12 hours, but is made available for the 12 hour price while the final version is being completed!)  The 4 hours of Blower Door Testing Training is only required if the project will have blower door testing and the 4 hours of Duct Leakage Testing is only required if the project will have duct testing.  The 12 hour course (or combination of the 4 hour and 8 hour courses) makes up part 1 of the full certification and provides a quick introduction to each of these, however, the full required blower door and duct leakage testing training is available through the Green Home Institute as well as the additional required documentation and oversight:

Contact Brett Little at Green Home Institute for further direction:

Brett.Little@greenhomeinstitute.org

Q2: After completing the training a certificate will be provided as Certified LEED Energy Rater?

A2: This training and the subsequent mentorship and documentation steps are for the LEED Qualified Energy Rater which is available to those working on projects outside the US and Canada. 

LEED Projects require that a Home Energy Rating System HERS Rater or a “Qualified Energy Rater” perform certain tasks and verification inspections for a LEED Project to achieve certification.  However, LEED projects that are outside of the United States or Canada have difficulty locating and engaging an individual who is certified as a HERS Rater.

The USGBC has ruled that individuals who complete specific qualifications will be considered a qualified professional and may perform all tasks required to be performed by the HERS Rater (also referred to as the “qualified energy rater” in the LEED v4 Homes Reference Guide).  This is for projects within the following Rating Systems and Version that are located outside of the United States and Canada.  This is not the same as a LEED Certified Green Rater.

Q3: There will be no certificate for this training?

A3: There is a certificate of completion for the training which also qualifies for ICC CEUs.  You will provide that certificate to Green Home Institute to complete the full LEED Qualified Energy Rater certification.

Q4: Are 15 lb and/or 30 lb felt a good air barriers? (30 LB felt is typically used behind stone veneer in my area. It is applied directly to the plywood shear wall panels. No other air barrier such as Tyvek or sim. used.)

A4: We discussed this in the session briefly.  15 lb and 30 lb felt is used as a moisture barrier, but it is semi permeable and does not make a good air barrier.  It can also trap moisture if the seams are not fully sealed and bulk moisture gets behind it.  It is normally used as an underlayment, not an air barrier.  In the example shared, it appears the plywood shear wall panels would be the air barrier layer, rather than the felt, so that layer would need to be fully sealed as well.

Q5: Is it mandatory for Energy rater to do the energy modeling or the energy modeling will be done by Energy modeler and the energy rater will review it in the design and construction phase of the project?

A5: A Certified Energy Modeler working for the project HERS Rater may complete the energy model for the HERS Rater to sign off on.  However, this focus is for projects that don’t have a HERS Rater, or don’t have a HERS Rater to perform the required inspections and testing.  If the Project has a HERS Rater and an Energy Modeler and a LEED Qualified Energy Rater, the LEED Qualified Energy Rater may just perform the tests and inspections.  The verification team should check with their LEED for Homes Provider to ensure they are meeting the requirements.

Q6: The SIP manufacturer requires that the indoor seams between panels be taped prior to drywall installation. Does this taping require inspection?

A6: Yes, the SIPS Panels require Air Sealing Inspection which includes inspecting based on the SIP Manufacturer’s requirements.

Q7: How is the market? How large is demand to rate an existing home?

A7: In the US the existing home market is 98% of the homes.  It is a very large market!  However, there are only a small number of markets that require energy efficiency information at the time of sale and many codes do not require energy testing for additions, alterations, and remodels.  These are the areas that tend to drive the demand for Energy Rater services.  The Federal Government has long offered Energy Improvement Mortgages, which do require energy analysis for cost effectiveness and verification and testing to prove the improvements were made.  We are finding that more people are becoming educated about energy efficiency and green programs and are requesting Energy Rater services, even when they are not required, so consumer education is key.  Outside of the US there are many areas that have much more stringent building energy requirements for both new and existing homes so the market and demand can be much higher.

Q8: Is there a preferred software for Energy modeling for LEED Home rating system?

A8: For LEED projects outside the US and Canada REM/Rate, Ekotrope, HouseRater, and EnergyGauge are all used.  Connor Dillon made the point that HouseRater uses EnergyPlus weather stations, it is not restricted to US only locations like EnergyGauge or Ekotrope which will require you to determine which US Climate Zone is comparable to the area where the unit is being built. It was discussed during training that REM/Rate allows for a User Defined Reference Home which can be generated to match any location.

Q9: Hempcrete?

A9: Hempcrete is an incredible building material with a lot of very interesting and exciting characteristics.  It is not a new material, but due to confusion about the differences between Hemp and Marijuana, the ability to grow and use Hemp was negatively affected.  Hempcrete has insulative qualities, safety qualities, durability qualities, and environmental qualities that will get everyone who was interested in this call very excited to find a project where it can be used.  Other countries such as France, Germany, and Canada are leading the way in realizing the benefits of Hempcrete.  You can learn more here: https://2050-materials.com/blog/hemp-a-game-changer-for-the-building-industry/

Q10: Does interior wall require insulation?

A10: Maybe for sound quality but that is up to the local code or if you are pursuing sound points in LEED EQ

Q11: Do you know of a document that a homeowner could include like a rider to a contract to help insure quality installs?

A11: We always tell our builders to include the codes, standards, expectations, and 3rd party verification in the contracts with their trades with the statement that the work must be performed to the expected quality or the contractor will need to return and make corrections until the work passes verification.  I don’t have the official legal language available, but an attorney could be consulted to update the standard contracts.

Q12: How would you check the insulation in a finished house where walls and ceilings are already done ?

A12: The standards tell us to probe with a non-metallic object.  We would check outlet and switch overcuts, plumbing penetrations, etc. with a wooden or plastic crochet hook.  Sometimes you have to drill (with permission of course) in a closet or the back of a lower cabinet to find out what is installed, and be sure to plug your hole of course.  Infrared Thermography works well for existing home insulation inspection, as long as you know how to interpret what you are looking at, how to calibrate the camera, and can get a large enough temperature difference inside to outside.  I recommend anyone planning to use Infrared Thermography to get training and be certified to at least Level I, Level II is better if you plan to use it to help with any diagnostic work.

Q13: And how do you cure the uninsulated wall–after the wall is done.

A13: The wall can be insulated using what is called the “drill and fill” method.  Holes are drilled in the wall, either from the inside or after removing some siding on the outside, and insulation is blown or poured (if non-expanding liquid foam is used) into the cavities.  Experienced insulation contractors can do this quite quickly and effectively and a follow up Infrared inspection can ensure the cavities are fully filled.  Some other options are to remove the interior drywall, fill the cavities, and re-drywall, remove the exterior siding and if the walls do not have sheathing, insulate, add sheathing (perhaps even insulated sheathing or continuous insulation), air-seal, re-side, if the walls do have exterior sheathing, adding a layer of continuous insulation and air sealing that (then re-siding of course) can help immensely.  There are several options, but moisture management must be carefully considered as well.

Q14: I prefer to have above ceiling trades, and the inspector on board when the insulation is being blown in (if that method); so that No one walks on the insulation after it is installed. This is tricky people dynamics.

A14: That would absolutely be tricky people dynamics!  I didn’t have time to go into insulation density testing, but we have found that when insulation is blown to the correct density as required by the manufacturer for the stated R-Value, it does not cave in very much.  The density can be tested and we discuss that in training.  We have a short plastic rake that we take with us into the attic to even out any insulation we disturbed.  However, we also have code officials in our area that tell us that is they come to a site after a HERS Rater has been there for an attic insulation inspection, and they don’t see evidence that the attic was fully inspected, they will remove the Rater/RFI from the approved inspector list.  Communication is key!

Q15: What’s the specific difference between  HERS rater and the Energy Rater?

A15: The HERS Rater designation is used in the LEED materials as an individual that can perform certain tasks and inspections.  However, for projects outside the US and Canada it can be hard to find a HERS Rater, so a LEED Qualified Energy Rater may be used for those same tasks and inspections in those projects.

Thank you very much for being such an engaged and interesting group!  Feel free to reach out with any questions.  I look forward to having you in class!

Sharla Riead, Instructor

—

Sharla Riead, Owner/Managing Member

Hathmore Technologies, LLC

EnergySmart Institute

RESNET Accredited Training Provider

ICC Preferred Education Provider

ICC Certified Residential Energy Inspector / Plans Examiner

IECC/HERS Compliance Specialist

Certified Lead Instructor, EnergySmart Institute

• Training, QA, Professional Environmental Networking  – Partnering in your success.

816-224-5550 office

816-678-8884 mobile

sharla@energysmartinstitute.com”

People often assume that indoor air is cleaner and healthier than outdoor air. The absence of visible dirt, combustion and pollutants leads many to believe they are breathing safer air inside. However, the reality is quite different — it can be just as polluted, if not more, than what’s outside. This is especially concerning for green buildings, which are specifically designed to promote health and sustainability. 

How can industry professionals design spaces that are both energy-efficient and free from harmful indoor pollutants?

The Role of Smart Design in Indoor Air Quality

People spend about 90% of their lives inside — whether at work, school or home. However, recent scientific research hints that indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air in the most commercialized cities.

Breathing poor-quality indoor air for long periods poses serious health risks, especially for individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. Studies have found that at least 10 million lives are lost each year due to air pollution-related illnesses.

Fortunately, smart design and technological advancements are propelling a shift toward improving indoor air quality, aiming to make the time people spend inside healthier and safer than ever before.

1. Ventilation Strategies for Optimal Airflow

The airtight construction of green buildings is great for temperature control, but this also brings the problem of adequate airflow. To counter this, heat and energy recovery ventilators can be incorporated to continuously replace stale indoor air with fresh air from outdoors. Displacement ventilation, commonly used in LEED Platinum-certified buildings, can also be used to release fresh air from low-level diffusers, allowing warmer air to rise and be exhausted through ceiling vents.

In metropolitan areas where outdoor air pollution is a concern, hybrid systems combining mechanical and natural ventilation help maintain indoor air quality. Natural ventilation, when incorporated into building design, improves life indoors. Passive ventilation techniques, such as strategically placed operable windows, cross-ventilation corridors and ventilated facades, naturally move fresh air around with no additional energy required.

During post-construction, smart ventilation control systems can be installed to ensure optimal air quality without energy wastage. These devices use CO2 and humidity sensors to automatically adjust airflow in response to fluctuating occupancy levels.

2. Source Control Through Sustainable Materials

A key component of improving indoor air quality is minimizing the introduction of pollutants at the source. Many traditional construction materials, finishes and furnishings emit VOCs and other harmful chemicals. Selecting low-emission materials like Greenguard Gold-certified paints, formaldehyde-free plywood and PVC-free flooring minimizes off-gassing.

Moreover, incorporating antimicrobial and moisture-resistant materials helps prevent mold growth, another major contributor to poor indoor air. Green building certifications, such as LEED and WELL, emphasize source control by awarding credits for the use of low-emission materials, encouraging industrywide adoption.

Other major industry labels to look for include:

• Green Seal
• Cradle to Cradle Certified® Products
• Declare Labels used by the International Living Future Institute 

Leveraging Technology to Maintain Superior Air Quality

Smart design also involves incorporating smart systems that constantly monitor temperature, humidity and indoor air quality.

1. Smart HVAC Systems and Filtration Technologies

Today’s HVAC systems feature high-efficiency particulate air filters and activated carbon filtration, which effectively remove 99.97% of airborne pollutants such as dust, pollen, mold and bacteria.

Additionally, UV light purifiers use advanced photo-catalytic oxidation technology that is integrated into the HVAC ductwork. This helps neutralize airborne pathogens, reducing the risk of indoor air contamination.

Smart HVAC systems equipped with IoT sensors dynamically adjust airflow, humidity and filtration levels based on real-time air quality data. This promotes energy saving and ensures that air quality remains at safe levels throughout the building.

2. Real-Time IAQ Monitoring and AI-Driven Insights

The adage “you can’t improve what you can’t measure” holds particularly true for indoor air quality. Monitoring systems powered by IoT and AI allow real-time tracking of key pollutants such as CO2, VOCs, particulate matter and humidity levels.

AI-driven analytics further enhance indoor air quality management by predicting quality fluctuations and recommending adjustments to ventilation or filtration systems. Some smart buildings now feature automated pollutant response systems that trigger alarms or ventilation changes when levels exceed acceptable thresholds.

3. Smart Building Automation and Airflow Optimization

Building management systems with AI capabilities provide a holistic approach to indoor air quality control. They integrate with HVAC, lighting and ventilation to automatically adjust conditions based on occupancy and air quality data. For example, demand-controlled ventilation reduces power consumption by adjusting fresh air intake based on CO2 levels influenced by occupant population or indoor pollutant concentration.

Furthermore, predictive maintenance alerts help prevent indoor air quality degradation by ensuring that air filters, ducts and HVAC components remain in peak condition, reducing risks of dust accumulation and microbial growth.

Greener Air Quality in Green Buildings

Green buildings continue to become the standard of today’s construction and design industries, and optimal indoor air quality is becoming a key performance metric. It’s no longer about energy efficiency but occupancy health. These benchmarks for air quality make eco-friendly buildings healthy for both people and the planet.

Author: Jane Marsh is an environmental journalist and the Editor-in-

Chief of Environment.co, where she explores topics on sustainability, renewable energy, and environmental conservation.

“Need to up your ventilation game? Check out our sponsors Panasonic, Build Equinox, and Tamarack here to get access to smart ventilation and ventilation to  serve all needs.”  – GHI

This year, we have our top 5 most viewed on-demand CEU educational webinars and our top 5 most live-attended webinars.

And the top, the #1 spot… drum roll……..

These top educational sessions featured one common theme: dealing with moisture and humidity in homes.

This is very promising because of all the efforts, funding, and resources into decarbonization, energy reduction, and even ventilation. If we don’t build our buildings to be durable and don’t address moisture issues on our existing housing stock, we might end up with net-zero homes with great ventilation systems that are rotting and falling apart. So it is wonderful to see the interest from our live and on-demand audience in addressing this issue.

Our most viewed on-demand session this year was Vapor Control Barriers: Do We Really Need Them?

The survey results from attendees highlighted that participants gained a deeper understanding of insulation and moisture management, noting the importance of using appropriate insulation and vapor barriers tailored to specific climate zones. They learned about the differences between vapor barriers and vapor control layers, the functionality of smart vapor barriers, and the need for multiple air barriers within a wall assembly. However, several questions remain regarding the implementation and effectiveness of open vapor systems, the interactions between various barriers, and the nuances of moisture transmission in different building scenarios. Participants expressed a desire for clarity on how to effectively utilize permeable barriers and sought further information on innovative products and approaches suitable for their specific renovation and construction projects.

Our most well-attended live session this year was Tools to estimate moisture and humidity risk.

Continuing education is available for both of these as well

GHI needs continued support to keep this session going into 2025 and beyond. Please help us reach our goal of 400 members and get instant access to all our live webinars, with no registration and free on-demand CEUS plus more benefits. Learn more and register here.

In addition, our year-end fundraiser is underway, and we need your help to reach our fundraising goal and keep these sessions going. Give now!

What do you think might be most popular in 2025? What are you looking forward to?

This year, we have our top 5 most viewed on-demand CEU educational webinars and our top 5 most live-attended webinars.

#2 featured two top trends we saw this year: heating and cooling with heat pumps and the interest in solar power applications in homes. The on-demand trending course was our All About Ducted Mini Splits v1 session and our 2nd most attended live course, Solar Shingles: The best re-roofing & new roofing option for a home.

Mike Schaefer, a previous Senior Manager of performance Construction at Mitsubishi, joined us to discuss ducted mini splits.

Participants in the survey gained valuable insights into various aspects of mini-split systems, including the ability to install them within recessed truss frames, the performance of outdoor units in cold temperatures, and the importance of covering outdoor units for maintenance. Many were surprised by the diverse options for indoor units, such as low and medium static pressure models, and learned about modifying truss designs to accommodate ductwork within thermal envelopes. There was a strong emphasis on best practices for installation and maintenance, as well as the effectiveness of different systems in both retrofits and new constructions. However, several questions remain, particularly regarding the intricacies of ducting options, the specifics of mini-split designations, and how to optimize system performance in varying climate conditions. Overall, while the information provided was beneficial, participants expressed a desire for further clarification on certain technical details related to installation and system types.

You can watch the session here anytime on your time

Watch our intro to Solar Shingles: The best re-roofing & new roofing option for a home.

Continuing education is available for both of these as well

GHI needs continued support to keep this session going into 2025 and beyond. Please help us reach our goal of 400 members and get instant access to all our live webinars, with no registration and free on-demand CEUS plus more benefits. Learn more and register here.

In addition, our year-end fundraiser is underway, and we need your help to reach our fundraising goal and keep these sessions going. Give now!

Stay tuned tomorrow for our continued countdown through the end of the year.

This year, we have our top 5 most viewed on-demand CEU educational webinars and our top 5 most live-attended webinars.

Coming in at #3 for the on-demand most viewed course, The Basics of Passive Solar Design, and the most live attendees for the year was the All About Ducted Mini Splits v2 2024 session, which was featured as our #4 on-demand session in the last post.

Our board director and technical committee chair, Debbie Coleman of Sun Plans, has been helping us put together our series on passive solar practices over the last few years, with this being the introductory course and including two other courses completed this year. She was joined Orlo Stitt, Passive Solar Builder.

The survey results indicate that participants gained a wealth of knowledge about passive solar design tools and techniques. They learned important principles such as the optimal thickness for mass walls, the significant potential for the sun to provide a substantial portion of a home’s heating, and strategies for maximizing passive solar heating through proper building orientation and window placement. Participants found new resources like the Solar Path Finder tool and various online solar calculators particularly helpful. However, several questions remain, including the practical application of innovative designs like the Ice House Roof in different regions and the compatibility of passive solar strategies with local building codes. Additionally, some attendees expressed a desire to further explore the nuances of passive solar design technology and its integration with weatherization practices.

Watch this session here, anytime, on your time! 

Continuing education is available for both of these as well.

GHI needs continued support to keep this session going into 2025 and beyond. Please help us reach our goal of 400 members and get instant access to all our live webinars, with no registration and free on-demand CEUS plus more benefits. Learn more and register here.

In addition, our year-end fundraiser is underway, and we need your help to reach our fundraising goal and keep these sessions going. Give now!

See Number 4 Here.

Stay tuned tomorrow for our continued countdown through the end of the year.

This year, we have our top 5 most viewed on-demand CEU educational webinars and our top 5 most live-attended webinars.

Coming in at #4 are both courses we hosted this year on Heat Pumps. There is no doubt a growing interest in heat pump technology to heat the air and water and cool the air in the summer. All while using the air to do it! Heat pumps use no unhealthy combustion onsite and can be powered with all renewable energy. There are many new tax credits and incentives available for them. 

For on-demand, the most viewed is All About Ducted Mini Splits (v2) 2024, and the 4th most live-attended session was 120v Plugin Heat Pump Water Heaters: Insights from the field.

Continuing education is available for both of these as well

GHI needs continued support to keep this session going into 2025 and beyond. Please help us reach our goal of 400 members and get instant access to all our live webinars, with no registration and free on-demand CEUS plus more benefits. Learn more and register here.

In addition, our year-end fundraiser is underway, and we need your help to reach our fundraising goal and keep these sessions going. Give now!

See Number 5 Here.

Stay tuned tomorrow for our continued countdown through the end of the year.

We have our top 5 most viewed on-demand CEU educational webinars and our top 5 most live-attended webinars this year.

Coming in at number 5 for our on-demand most viewed webinar is

“There is no such thing as a free thermodynamic lunch,” and most live attendees was “Intro to Heat Pump Sizing With The New Manual H”

We were honored to have building scientist Joseph Lstiburek join us in teaching this course. Here is a summary of what survey attendees had to say.

From the survey results, participants gained a deeper understanding of building science principles, particularly regarding moisture control, insulation strategies, and the importance of proper construction practices. Many expressed surprise at the nuances of insulation placement and the significant thermal conductivity of steel studs compared to wood. A recurring theme was the critical role of moisture movement and air sealing, with numerous lessons on achieving optimal wall and roof designs in various climates. Despite the wealth of information shared, questions remain about the specific implications of building in different environments, best materials for various applications, and further clarification on the use of vented versus unvented attics. Overall, the session resonated with many, providing both foundational knowledge and prompting curiosity for continued learning in building practices.

You can watch the session here anytime on your time

Watch our intro to heat pump sizing here anytime

Continuing education is available for both of these as well

GHI needs continued support to keep this session going into 2025 and beyond. Please help us reach our goal of 400 members and get instant access to all our live webinars, with no registration and free on-demand CEUS plus more benefits. Learn more and register here.

In addition, our year-end fundraiser is underway, and we need your help to reach our fundraising goal and keep these sessions going. Give now!

Stay tuned tomorrow for our continued count down through the end of the year.

Stay up to date in real-time by following #GreenHomeJobAlert on LinkedIn. 

• Various positions, Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships, NE/MId-Atlantic region
• Vice President of Green Lending, Enterprise, hybrid
• Director of Credit and Compliance, Enterprise, hybrid
• Data Program Officer, Enterprise, hybrid
• Senior Loan Officer, Enterprise, hybrid
• Decarbonization Project Manager – Community Programs, Elevate, MI
• Intermediate Full Stack Developer, HAVEN IAQ, Vancouver BC Canada
• General Manager, Elephant Energy, Denver CO
• General Manager, Elephant Energy, Boston MA
• RESNET QA Compliance Specialists, Residential Energy Services Network, East-West-Central-Gulf regions
• Senior Project Consultant – Community Consulting, Elevate, Chicago IL
• Production Manager, Attic Queen
• Senior Associate – Building Decarbonization, Utah Clean Energy, Salt Lake City UT
• Program Manager, Sealed, Remote
• EMU Sales Lead, EMU, Remote work for residents of Colorado, New York, or Wyoming
• Principal Engineer – Distributed Energy Resources, GTI, Hybrid IL
• Senior Analyst, Building Energy Codes, ACEEE, Remote
• Builder Sales Representative, RNC, Aeroseal, PA, NJ, and NY

Success Coach (Case Manager), NEHERS, Remote, Prefer MA-Based

EMU Passive House Sales Rep