Green Building
Green Building
Home buyers are looking for green homes for the numerous benefits that a green home bestows; green homes reduce the burden on the environment and eliminate toxic materials, creating a healthier home for the owner;energy efficient features conserve water and reduce utility costs. Certification as "green" often adds value to the property and offers greater access to mortgage funds.
In Florida, the standards for green building are set by the Florida Green Building Coalition (FGBC). This organization has enumerated features which contribute to good environmental stewardship. A builder may earn points by incorporating these features and, by integrating a sufficient number, may earn green certification.
Vero Beach is on its way to becoming a leader in green building. Mandala Club, a 90 unit development of single family homes and condos, is planned to begin construction within the year.The project was designed to meet the highest standards of the FGBC certification program. Mandala Club will integrate the following green features:
- Highly energy efficient "breathable" mold resistant exterior wall system
- Energy- efficient windows with low emittance glass
- Icynene insulated unvented attics
- Non-toxic paints and adhesives
- Solar hot water in combination with tankless water heating system
- Formaldehyde-free cabinets cores
- EMF-reducing electrical design
- Emphasis on natural materials such as granite, clay plaster, wood, etc.
- Emphasis on native, drought resistant landscaping
- Energy efficient appliances (Energy Star rated)
A few homes are already under way in Vero Beach which incorporate these features. The builders have used autoclaved, aerated concrete or AAC, blocks for the exterior wall. AAC is a pre-cast, manufactured building stone made of all natural raw materials. It is environmentally friendly, exceptionally strong and light weight with a very high insulation value. Additionally it does not trap moisture and thereby does not encourage the growth of mold or mildew.
One of these homes is now complete. Click here to see how beautiful green can be .
For a more complete description of this innovative project, please visit www.mandalaclub.com
For information about more green building projects in Florida, please e-mail Helen at helenederer@earthlink.net.
For more information on the Florida Green Building Coalition, please visit www.floridagreenbuilding.org
