At L.G.K Building Inc. we look for ways to use sensible green building technology. We strive to design and build the best quality and value into all our projects.
We embrace the concept of “building green” when it makes sense. However, just like when the microwave or the VCR first came out, the cost of some of the “green” products out there make them prohibitive. At what price does it make sense to use a “cutting edge” product? Is there any history on the product to show it’s worth the additional costs?
Our goals when building is to inform and educate our clients on building products and design practices that make sense. As with all our projects, we help steer our clients to make decisions that will benefit the quality of life now and in the future. The “Return on Investment” is the cornerstone to how we approach “green” building. However, for some, using green technology is more about saving the environment than saving money. We understand, appreciate and share that commitment to our planet.
We help with practical solutions to saving energy and money. Does spending $25,000 on a solar panel system to save $25 per month make sense? To some, yes. But, a less costly way to save that amount of money may be to simply replace the light bulbs in your house with compact fluorescent bulbs or LED bulbs.
Some of the most cost effective ways to save on energy costs are replacing your windows with Low-E, argon gas filled double pane windows. Adding insulation to your attic will allow for perhaps the quickest return on investment we know. Our experience will help guide you through the maze of opportunity that “building green” has to offer. So, don’t worry, from low VOC paints and carpets to high efficiency water heaters, we’ve got you covered.
However, using “green” products is only part of our approach. When designing, we look at ways to save energy cost by considering passive solar design and solar orientation and the effects it can have on the new as well as the existing structure. By designing around how the sun affects the interior temperature and lighting of the house, we can save energy.
Durability applies to design, materials, and construction. It means combining these in such a way that the project responds to forces that challenge its durability—water, wind, ultraviolet radiation, pests, use and abuse, natural disasters. It is also about designing a project with lasting aesthetics and utility.
Ensuring durability involves quality assurance (of design and material’s selection) and quality management (construction). To ensure durability, carry out a durability evaluation,
Each building must be evaluated for the cost’s and benefit’s of managing different energy loads and the loads evaluated for their impact on overall building performance (health and safety, durability).
And although the number of building professionals trained in this type of home assessment is growing, the demand is quickly outstripping the supply of qualified professionals so one certification covers systems-integrated, building science-based residential building assessment.
