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Honor Award recognizes group and its leader for their leadership, commitment, and achievements in green building and design.
HIT Series photovoltaic panels for residential, grid-connected systems feature a proprietary hybrid of single crystalline silicon surrounded by ultra-thin, amorphous silicon layers to reach greater cell and module efficiencies. Panels measure 51.2 by 35.2 inches, achieve an STC maximum power rating of 180 to 205 W, and boast conversion efficiencies up to 17.4%. Bifacial models also generate electricity from ambient light that has passed through the panel or is reflected off surrounding surfaces. 469.362.5645.
PVL-136 FlexLight is a flexible, lightweight, laminate PV panel that adheres directly to the roof finish without nullifying the roof’s warranty. The panel’s laminated design captures the complete solar spectrum more efficiently than traditional systems, says the manufacturer, to produce more electricity per watt; the top layer minimizes power loss when the panel is shaded. Each panel measures 216 by 151/2 inches, achieves an STC maximum power rating of 136 W, and is code-approved for use in Miami-Dade County, Fla. 888.522.3626.
This residential roof-mounted solar kit, invented by a roofing contractor, uses thin-film PV technology and consists of 60 solar shingles, a DC-AC inverter, and all flashing and fastening components. Each interlocking shingle measures 51.125 by 15.625 inches and achieves an STC maximum power rating of 31 W. The system is designed to integrate with common horizontal roof shingle layouts. 888.733.5862.
The Solar in a Box system is a factory-assembled, 2-kW standardized solution for residential applications. Each racking system accommodates a PV module measuring 10 by 6 feet to deliver 0.5 kWh of electricity. The turnkey solution (including modules from one of several manufacturers) consists of panels, an inverter, mounting system and hardware, and roof jacks and flashing. The homeowner can monitor the system’s performance online, and battery backup is available as an optional upgrade. 877.817.3239.
ES-Series poly-crystalline solar panels feature String Ribbon wafer technology. The panel’s design consists of 108 poly-crystalline silicon solar cells, anti-reflective tempered solar glass, EVA encapsulant, polymer backskin, and a double-walled anodized aluminum frame. Each panel measures 371/2 by 61.8 inches and weighs 40.1 pounds. Three panel options achieve an STC maximum power rating of 180 to 195 W; multiple mounting options enable installation versatility. 508.357.2221.
A trio of KD Series solar modules uses a larger and more powerful solar cell to deliver a higher output per module and achieve an STC maximum power rating of 135 to 205 W, depending on the model, says the firm. The MyGen Grid-tie Photovoltaic Power System offers a complete package of modules, inverter, wire and lightning protection, and mounting and mechanical support that hastens installation and meets most code and utility requirements. 800.223.9580.
SunTile roof tiles and solar panels provide a built-in look for various roof finishes. The tile product suits S-shape and flat tile profiles; each panel measures 17 by 59 inches and achieves an STC power rating of 63 W. Panel-designed products integrate with various roof finishes, measuring 61.39 by 31.42 inches and achieving an STC maximum power rating of 210 W and a conversion efficiency of 16.9% per panel. The company’s solar cell technology delivers up to 50% more power than conventional cells and converts up to 22% of available sunlight into electricity. Both systems are available with optional online monitoring service. 877.787.6527.
Poly-crystalline modules feature a textured solar cell surface that increases light absorption and improves efficiency, while a bypass diode minimizes the power drops under shady conditions. The module achieves an STC maximum power rating of 187 W and a 12.7% conversion efficiency, and is designed for the company’s solar racking system. Sharp’s OnEnergy system offers custom designs and delivers a complete package of all components and fasteners. 800.765.2706.
PowerFlex Solar Strings offer a pre-connected format for the company’s flexible Copper Indium Gallium diSelenide (CIGS) cells, allowing manufacturers of solar products and modules (i.e., the end products installed on houses) to more easily fit thin-film cells into their manufacturing processes. The CIGS cells are made on a bendable substrate, the company explains, making it more adaptable in shape and size and thereby allowing for new and innovative designs. 520.546.6313.
Peel & Stick flashing now includes Quik-Peel technology, which lets installers peel release paper from half the width, leaving the remainder in place for easier installation of a weather barrier. Designed for straight jambs and headers, the flashing tape is sturdy yet flexible, the company says, and features a high-performing pressure-sensitive adhesive with a co-polymer formula to provide strong adhesion in virtually any environment. Four sizes are available. 800.284.2780.
The company now offers FSC-certified bamboo plywood and flooring. The products qualify for the FSC Pure designation, the manufacturer says, signifying they are made of 100% FSC material from a certified forest and have been sold or processed by an FSC chain-of-custody certified company. 866.835.9859.
EarthCrete concrete mixes are composed of formulas that use local, natural, raw pozzolans, industrial waste ceramics, and fly ash for up to 30% portland cement replacement, the company says, reducing the material’s carbon footprint. The product can be used for sinks, countertops, tiles, and other applications. 877.939.9929.
Thermally modified decking uses high heat in a controlled atmosphere to provide increased dimensional stability and decay resistance, the maker says; no chemicals are used to preserve the wood. Because of its stability, the product holds paints and stains longer, meaning it needs less maintenance, the maker adds. 866.960.9663.
Ideal for commercial or multifamily applications, zero-VOC Enjarre spray-on, single-coat plaster provides a hard, durable, reimulsifiable, fade-resistant finish that is mold-resistant, nontoxic, and creates no on-site waste, says the maker. The natural finish comes pre-tinted in a choice of eight colors and can be applied to a variety of substrates. It typically lasts the life of the walls, adds the firm. The surface can be hand-troweled, if desired, to draw out more of its textural properties. 866.404.1634.
The WD66 wood folding glass wall system comes with krypton-filled Heat Mirror glazing, providing an energy-efficient solution for large openings. The glass has a 0.23 U-factor and an SHGC of 0.31. The doors can be installed anywhere a traditional wall would stand and come in openings from 8 feet to 40 feet. 800.873.5673.
The Profile SmartDispense Frontload Laundry Pair includes an Energy Star–qualified washer with H2ITION technology that senses the load and adjusts water accordingly, using as little as 10 gallons for small loads. A SmartDispense system automatically releases detergent and fabric softener based on load size. The 4.2-cubic-foot washer and 7.5-cubic-foot dryer communicate load settings. The dryer’s DuoDry system dries clothes faster and more evenly, the maker says. 800.626.2005.
The Essentia E6G is the world’s first Energy Star–rated whole-home audio system, according to the maker. Standby mode accounts for more than half the energy that electronics consume, the company says, and models must use less than 1 watt of power in standby to qualify for Energy Star. The E6G uses 0.82 watts in standby by shutting down its amplifier and up to 14 control pads when not in use. The system also is cool-running, has a slim profile, and features organic LED displays for easy readability and low energy consumption. 866.796.4904.
The LR4 4-inch recessed LED downlight offers 540 lumens of light while using less than 11 watts of power. The dimmable lamp comes in warm white or neutral color temperatures, offers a color rendering index of up to 94, and is available in 15- and 30-degree shield angles. 919.991.0700.
The R-etro insulation system lets remodelers attach expanded polystyrene insulation to an existing building. The system, which has an R-value of 18, adapts to the shape of a building and around protrusions and openings, the company says, and it can be attached to any wall structure. After installation, the product serves as a fastening point for finish materials. 888.711.5625.
The manufacturer now offers SFI-certified windows and patio doors as part of its Custom Wood window line. The products include AuraLast ponderosa pine windows, patio doors, and trim components. AuraLast wood is protected against decay, water, and termites with a water-based, vacuum-pressure process. 800.877.9482.
Andalay solar panels feature built-in racking and built-in wiring for a smooth, flush appearance that resembles skylights. With 70% fewer parts and 25% fewer attachment points, the panels for a small house can be installed in less than an hour, the company says. Fewer attachment points also means fewer penetrations in the roof, so less opportunity for leaks and failure. 408.395.7774.
Engineered for continuous operation, Energy Star–rated Ultra Silent QTXE ventilation fans are quiet at 0.3 to 1.4 sones and are designed for use with a 6-inch duct. Louvers hide the fan housing at almost any angle, helping the grille to blend in with the ceiling, the company says, and a 16- to 24-inch-span hanger bar system allows for easy installation in all types of construction, the maker adds. It includes a five- to 60-minute shut-off timer. 800.558.1711.
Featuring high-tack, pressure-sensitive adhesive combined with a three-ply, cross-linked tear- and puncture-resistant poly facer film, Super Stick window and door flashing tape offers maximum adhesion even in high temperatures, the company says. The product forms a permanent waterproof air/vapor seal to prevent moisture and air intrusion, the firm claims. Its release paper is serrated, so part of it may be removed while the rest stays intact for easier integration with the weather-resistant barrier. 877.271.9661.
With solid 26-gauge Galvalume construction and an interlocking tab design that aligns panels and creates a waterproof channel, Vail Titan Select shingles stand up to harsh weather, the company says. The Cool Roof Reflective Paint System, which features BASF and Kynar 500 reflective pigmentation technology, provides for efficient cooling performance, the maker adds. The roofing carries a Class A fire rating, a Class 4 hail-resistance rating, and 110-mph wind-resistance rating. 800.826.7813.
Ecoresin translucent sheet materials are made from spectar PETG co-polyester resin with 40% post-industrial recycled content, and are nontoxic. The material has 40 times the impact strength of glass, the maker says. Ecoresin is the outer layer of Varia architectural panels, encapsulating an interlayer of various colors, textures, patterns, and materials. New collections include Nest (shown in Thicket Fire), which features intertwined patterns; Alchemy, which features metals in organic forms; and Enchanted Forest, which features bold-colored branches and floating flowers. 800.726.0126.
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6100 series cast iron wood stoves are made with 98% recycled material and carry the Nordic Swan Ecolabel, a Scandinavian environmental certification that sets standards for low particle emissions and high efficiency, and recognizes companies for reducing their carbon footprints, the company says. The four models boast simple, contemporary styling with clean lines and clear fire viewing. They have a maximum heat output of 30,000 BTU. 866.883.9619.
Poplar Bark House shingle siding is made with bark that is removed from yellow poplar trees before they are shipped to sawmills for use in furniture and other manufacturing. The shingles are kiln-dried to prevent shrinking and cracking, and they contain no chemical additives. They resist infestations and can meet municipal building-code standards for flammability, the company says. 828.765.9010.
A new way to bring natural light into interior spaces, Huvco’s Parans Fiber Optic Skylight system collects sunlight through lenses on outdoor panels (shown), then funnels the light through optical cables to luminaires. The system’s daylight collectors mount on roofs or façades. The thin, flexible optical cables, which are routed through walls and ceilings, have high light transmission that lets sunlight efficiently reach far into buildings; the luminaires are designed to recreate the feeling of sunlight. Hybrid luminaires that combine natural light and electric light are available. 800.832.6116.
The company’s line of FSC-certified lumber includes 2x4 to 2x6 Douglas fir and larch dimensional framing lumber, 2x4 to 2x12 hem fir dimensional framing lumber, 2x4 to 2x6 SPF studs, 2x4 to 2x12 Southern yellow pine dimensional framing lumber, and red cedar decking, boards, and siding in a variety of widths, lengths, and depths. Certified plywood panels are also available. 509.835.1500.
The manufacturer’s line of hardwood flooring is available in nine native species, including cherry, maple, hickory, red oak, white oak, and black walnut. Panels can be plain sawn or quarter sawn, and come in a ½ inch thickness and widths from 2 inches to 7 inches. FSC certified. 812.923.8875.
TimberStrand laminated strand lumber is available in a broad range of products, including wall studs, rafters, beams, treated sill plate, columns, window and door headers, and concrete form board. The product is manufactured from faster growing species, including aspen and yellow poplar, and from trees not straight or large enough for conventional building products. It is available in lengths up to 64 feet, depending on product. SFI certified. 888.453.8358.
Thermastrand radiant barrier roof sheathing is available with the FSC Mixed Sources label, which indicates the wood comes from FSC-certified well-managed forests, company-controlled sources, and/or recycled material, the maker says. Energy Star–qualified Thermastrand blocks up to 97% of the sun’s radiant heat and can provide energy savings of up to 20%, adds the firm. 877.661.3200.
The manufacturer’s SkyBlend no-added-urea-formaldehyde particleboard is now available FSC certified. The particleboard is made from recycled wood fiber generated when logs from the company’s FSC-certified lands are used to make lumber, plywood, or veneer. FSC SkyBlend is available in its raw form or in Duramine melamine panels and Roseburg hardwood panels. 800.347.7260.
CollinsWood FSC-certified lumber includes hardwood and softwood lumber, hardwood veneer and veneer logs, and particleboard. Softwood species include ponderosa pine, white fir, sugar pine, and incense cedar and are available as specialty, pre-rip, rough-cut, and surface-sanded products. Hardwood species include oaks, poplar, maples, ash, basswood, and black cherry (shown) in rough and surfaced lumber and veneer logs. 800.329.1219.
SolidStart laminated strand lumber is available in lengths up to 64 feet and a maximum thickness of 31/2 inches. Manufactured from smaller, underused trees (primarily aspen and maple), more than 80% of the log is used in the final product, with the remaining portion used as fuel during manufacturing. Steam-injection manufacturing results in a product with greater resistance to warping, twisting, shrinking, and bowing, the maker says. SFI certified. 888.820.0325.
Cabinetry line of more than 190 distinct styles (including Sierra Vista, shown) is certified under the Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association Environmental Stewardship Program, which awards points for woods sourced from certified forestlands. Wood doors, drawer fronts, and cabinet front frames are made from North American–grown hardwoods that are SFI, ATFS, or PEFC certified and applicable to the KCMA stewardship program. 800.967.9674.
Versa-Stud laminated veneer lumber is designed for tall walls and other applications calling for strong, straight framing materials. Constructed of 1/6-, 1/8-, or 1/10-inch-thick veneers, the product uses nearly the entire timber log, compared with about 60% used in traditional framing lumber, the maker says. It is available in lengths up to 60 feet with a 11/2-inch width and depths of 3?1/2, 5?1/2, 7?1/4, 9?1/4, and 11?1/4 inches. SFI certified. 800.232.0788.
GreenT hardwood plywood panels contain no-added-urea formaldehyde and are available with several core options, including a veneer core, particleboard core, and MDF core made with 100% post-industrial recycled wood fiber. The line comes in more than 35 melamine and roll laminated wood-grains and color finishes. FSC and SFI certified. 800.547.9520.
Hand-Scraped hickory flooring comes in engineered multi-ply, kiln-dried, tongue-and-groove planks with beveled edges. Planks are ½ inch thick with a 5-inch face width in random lengths between 12 inches and 42 inches. The product can be used over radiant heat systems. A satin-sheen aluminum oxide–enhanced, UV-cured urethane finish is topped with scratch-resistant, hardened acrylic. FSC certified. 415.258.8454.
Navarro used compact fluorescent recessed lights throughout the living area but speced longer-lasting LED bulbs for the taller ceiling, where they are harder to replace. The Cree LED lights—LLF LR6 12-watt can inserts in standard insulation-contact (IC) cans—have a 25-year life span and produce less heat than compact fluorescent, incandescent, and halogen bulbs. Raised wood counters were reclaimed from a 100-year-old barn. Work-height countertops are Squawk Mountain Stone, hand-cast from recycled paper, recycled glass, coal fly ash, and cement. The material is finished with Jamo’s water-based, low-VOC Stone Specific sealer.
Floors in the two bedrooms are covered in Shaw nylon carpet squares made from 27% post-industrial recycled content. The 2-foot modules, which carry the Green Label Plus certification from the Carpet & Rug Institute, are easy to replace and can be returned to the company for recycling at the end of their life. 800.441.7429.
The 5 5/8-inch SIPs that make up the walls have an R-factor of 26 at 25 degrees F, according to USA SIPs. Between the SIPs and the cedar and Corten steel cladding materials is a rainscreen system from VaproShield of two breathable, waterproof membranes and brackets that hold the exterior materials away from the walls.
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The twin houses share a wall filled with Fiberlite blown-in cellulose. The 80%-plus recycled-newsprint cellulose makes an excellent sound barrier and also insulates the ceiling cavity under the green roof. 800.641.4296.
A ship’s ladder leads to the deck and buffalo-grass roof, where Navarro installed the Garland GreenShield layered roof system. At its base is a multi-ply, modified bitumen waterproofing membrane. Specially engineered layers on top prevent roots from penetrating the membrane, draw moisture away from the roof’s surface, and keep soil from clogging the drainage system. 800.321.9336.
Eco-Terr recycled-glass terrazzo floors from Coverings Etc. are made with 70% recycled content. 305.757.6000.
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Each bath is furnished with an Aquia dual-flush toilet by Toto. The two-piece unit operates at 1.6 and 0.9 gallons per flush and comes with a push-button flush option and a soft-close seat upgrade. 888.295.8134.
Rapidly renewable bamboo from CFS Corp. is used in the main living areas and an upstairs hallway. Navarro chose the pre-stained burnt mocha color for its rich, dark hue and because its binders are formaldehyde-free. 866.751.4893.
Flat concrete roof tiles from Entegra are finished bright white per the neighborhood design guidelines and to effectively reflect heat from the attic and living spaces. Roof temperatures are 30 degrees F cooler than asphalt, which helps reduce cooling energy loads. The 13-inch tiles present a uniform, tailored roofline for an upscale look. They are available in smooth (specified), tapered shake, and slate-look styles. 800.586.7663.
Given the real and recent potential for violent storms along the Gulf Coast, the house features single-hung, low-E insulated windows and French terrace doors from Loewen. All are equipped with the company’s StormForce MP system of structural enhancements and monolithic laminated glass to withstand a Category 5 hurricane, and pass Miami-Dade County test protocols. The engineered Douglas fir frames are clad with aluminum, available in 36 colors, on the exterior. Window sashes tilt for easy cleaning; terrace doors are hinged on the outside to allow both panels to operate from the middle. 800.563.9367.
The home’s solar electric (PV) system is installed at a slight south/west tilt on a flat roof section adjacent to the outdoor kitchen, enabling easy access to the panels and keeping them off the home’s sloped roof to maintain aesthetics. The BP Solar modules feature polycrystalline cell technology and 92% transmission through the glass top pane to capture more solar energy. The grid-tied Solaris XP inverter from Alpha efficiently converts DC power to AC and offers built-in battery backup and net-metering capability. The system delivers up to 4.8 kWh of free electricity, significantly offsetting energy costs. BP Solar: 866.277.6527.
Made for builders in the West, the 100 series product line is certified by Scientific Certification Systems for having a minimum of 40 percent pre-consumer recycled content by weight and for not releasing VOCs. The window is made from Fibrex, a blend of sawdust and polymer. The series is available with 50 glass options, including low-E and dual-pane. 800.426.4261.
Aiming to reduce energy demand by more than 60 percent over traditional residential communities, Pulte Homes says its Villa Trieste is expected to be one of the most energy efficient-communities in Nevada. The community’s grand opening was held Jan. 9.
The Gardener’s Drip Kit includes all the connections, tubing, emitters, and tools necessary to install the drip irrigation system to an outdoor faucet or an underground irrigation system, the manufacturer says. Once installed, the system will distribute water slowly and consistently direct to the plants’ roots, helping them thrive while using less water than a conventional irrigation system. The drip places water directly on the soil above the plants’ roots, letting the water soak down to the roots—reducing runoff and eliminating water waste, the company says. The kit is a reengineered version of the company’s professional-grade drip components, so it is easier to install, the firm says. 800.724.6247.
The manufacturer’s permeable brick pavers enable storm water to filter into the soil instead of draining into streams and rivers, and satisfy state and local storm-water management requirements, the maker says. The company says its pavers are easier to install than some because there are only slight variations in size. The clay brick pavers are the same color throughout, so they never fade, the firm says, and once in place, they will last more than a century. 800.334.8689.
The manufacturer’s irrigation rain barrels are made from 20 pounds of recycled plastic or 110 pounds of oak, brass, and steel. The barrels have two spigots and connect directly to a home’s rain gutter downspouts. A removable zinc irrigation spigot can attach to a regular garden hose and has a shut-off value so the homeowner can leave it open for drip irrigation. The 58-gallon plastic rain barrel is fully enclosed for safety. The company’s wooden whiskey barrels (pictured) are reclaimed from Kentucky distilleries. 978.790.1816.
Bioline Dripperline disperses waste water through a drip-irrigation system. The flexible tubing delivers a slow, steady application of water directly to plants, eliminating overspray, staining, and slippery surfaces, the manufacturer says, and reduces water use 30% to 70% compared with sprinklers. The system’s modular components allow for a flexible design that can reach oddly shaped and hard-to-water areas, and can disperse from a few hundred gallons to millions of gallons of water per day, the company says. 888.638.2346.
The company’s permeable pavers are made of concrete and separated by joints filled with small stones. Water enters the joints between the pavers and filters through crushed stone layers; the water, minus the filtered-out pollutants, is absorbed into the soil. The pavers can be used for patios, driveways, walkways, pools, and other areas. The manufacturer says its pavers, including Subterra stone (pictured), allow for modular and random installation to create random patterns that look like natural cobblestones. The product comes in multiple shapes, colors, and patterns. 800.899.8455.
The Clivus Greywater System includes a Greywater Dosing Basin as the collection point for all of a home’s greywater. Made of rigid plastic, it contains level switches and an effluent pump or gravity siphon (where sufficient slope is available). When an amount of greywater sufficient to create a 11/2-inch flooding dose within the irrigation chamber has collected in the dosing basin, the pump (or gravity siphon) engages. Because the irrigation chamber is flooded throughout its length, water and nutrients are carried evenly to surrounding plants.
The LawnMaster II Timer features three program options and meets the requirement of communities for multiple-option timers during watering restrictions, the manufacturer says. A large LCD screen, a programming dial, and selection buttons let users choose which days to water and how long each zone will be watered. In addition, the user may activate a single watering area or start any watering program right away without waiting for its scheduled time. A sensor shuts off the irrigation system if it rains. The device is available in four- and six-zone models. 800.367.8676.
Alpenglass windows use a combination of low-E coatings; suspended Heat Mirror films; gas fills; vinyl, wood, or insulated fiberglass frames; and low-conductivity spacers to achieve whole-unit U-factors as low as 0.10 for fixed units and 0.14 for casements using superinsulating glazing combinations, such as triple films and xenon gas, and superinsulated frames. Depending on the customer’s requirements, the manufacturer can provide products with higher SHGC values for passive solar gain, or whole-unit SHGC values as low as 0.15. 800.882.4466.
Low-E4 glazing, now standard on all 400 Series windows, is a dual-pane system layered with 11 microscopic coatings and filled with argon gas for a center-of-glass SHGC range from 0.41 to 0.44 and a U-factor range of 0.27 to 0.28. The vinyl-clad 400 Series casement without grilles and with Low-E4 glazing has a whole-unit U-factor of 0.30 and an SHGC of 0.34. Frames are primarily vinyl-clad wood, but some products include components made from composite or glass fiber. The glazing incorporates a sunlight-activated exterior coating that reduces dirt buildup and water spots, the maker says. The windows are Energy Star– and Green Seal–certified. 800.426.4261.
SageGlass electronically tintable skylights allow control of the amount of light and heat that enters a room. Applying a safe, low-DC voltage via a control switch, remote, or automatic timer causes the electrochromic layers on the skylight to darken, and reversing the voltage polarity causes the layers to lighten. The skylights have a whole-unit U-factor of 0.49 and an SHGC of 0.10 when the skylight is dark or 0.47 when it is clear. SageGlass is available in select sizes of model FS and model VSE skylights, which are deck-mounted and have wood frames, as well as in select sizes of the aluminum FCM and wood VCE skylights, which are curb-mounted. The skylights are Energy Star–qualified. 800.888.3589.
Eternal Hybrid water heating combines the benefits of a tank water heater and a tankless into one super-efficient unit. Rather than a single-pass heat exchange that Grand Hall says can waste heat, the Eternal Hybrid uses a multipass heat exchanger that drives heat downward and recycles it through 44 stainless steel pipes for maximum efficiency, the maker says; water spreads evenly around the pipes for fast heat absorption. Cold water flows upward to prevent sedimentation buildup. The firm says the counterflow technology allows for faster delivery for multiple applications at once versus a tankless. The unit is half the size of a 50-gallon tank model but provides 300% higher output. The Eternal Hybrid is 86% efficient and generates near-zero greenhouse gas emissions. 877.934.7455.
Often mistaken as an evaporative cooler because of their high efficiency, Coolerado’s high-performance air conditioners rely on patented heat and mass exchangers that reject heat from buildings via evaporative cooling through channels and plates in each unit. The company’s residential model R600 achieves EER greater than 40, delivering 5 tons of cooling while drawing only 600 watts, according to its specs. That’s just one-fifth to one-tenth the amount of electricity used by typical air conditioners. And because Coolerado’s units deliver cooled, filtered, fresh air into the home at the ideal humidity level, occupant comfort level increases compared to traditional air conditioners that re-circulate the same dry air during operation. 303.375.0878.
The advent of photovoltaic solar electric systems that connect and interact with grid power has opened up new categories of products to monitor, distribute, store, and control electrical supply and demand to and from solar-powered homes. Load centers, inverters, and distribution panels combine to link the solar collectors with the house loads and utility grid. And so far, backup battery systems only add to the complexity of a PV installation. So we are impressed with GridPoint’s Connect management system that combines these functions and more into a single integrated, versatile, and easy-to-install unit. Not only does GridPoint control and manage the PV power supply to the house and utility grid, it includes a battery backup system that automatically comes on line to power selected electrical appliances wired into a separate load panel. GridPoint Connect also can tap into an online interface and give information on energy consumption and backup power, and to select energy consumption preferences. 888.998.4743.
Insulation and structure have been at odds in high-performance homes for years, giving pros the challenge of providing strength and efficiency while minimizing cost and extra labor. Dow’s Styrofoam SIS panel combines both functions in a structural foam sandwich that eliminates the need for bracing or shearwall panels on projects using foam exterior sheathing to beef up R-values. Three layers are pressure-laminated to produce the SIS panels in ½- (R-3) and 1-inch (R-5.5) thicknesses: a moisture-resistant blue foil outside face, polyisocyanurate foam core, and structural sheet. Builders can use ½-inch panels to sheathe entire exteriors or the 1-inch-thick panels as shear panels on corners to match up with 1-inch foam sheathing on the rest of the exterior. Joints between panels are sealed with Weathermate tape. SIS panels contain 80% post-consumer recycled content and are Energy Star rated. 866.583.2583.
Anything that makes it easier for pros to incorporate natural light—a key component to any green home—gets our attention. Huvco’s fiber-optic system takes daylight to the darkest of places, illuminating interior rooms, closets, and bathrooms. Optical lenses on exterior-mounted solar panels capture sunlight, then channel it through thin, flexible, fiber-optic cables to interior rooms. Luminaires within the room recreate the feeling of sunlight. Also available are hybrid luminaires that combine daylight distribution with an electric light for times when the sun isn’t shining. According to the company, exchanging half a building’s electrical lighting for this system can lower energy costs 20% to 25% and greenhouse gas emissions 10% to 15%. 800.832.6116.
Using potable water to irrigate lawns and gardens is bad enough, but installing irrigation systems controlled by timers alone adds a level of waste that should be avoided. Common timers don’t know when it’s raining, and homeowners don’t always pick the best time of day to run their systems. So we have selected the WeatherTRAK ET for its innovative technology that gathers and delivers NOAA satellite downloads and weather station updates to site-located receivers, which can adjust irrigation scheduling to actual and changing weather conditions. The data delivered is accurate to within 1 square kilometer of the receiver and takes into account precipitation, humidity, solar radiation, and temperature. WeatherTRAK systems also can be programmed to account for variations in plant type, soil type, and site slope. This level of control results in water savings of 59% and runoff reductions of 71% over typical irrigation systems, according to EPA studies. 800.362.8774.
Durable, beautiful, and environmentally friendly finishes are easy for us to get behind. Now, with American Clay’s Enjarre, a zero-VOC, spray-on earth plaster, you can apply a plaster finish over drywall that looks like it’s layers deep. Enjarre blends clays, aggregates, and mineral pigments that can be applied and textured in a single pass to provide a hard, durable, mold-resistant, and natural-looking finish. Eight pre-tinted colors are available. 866.404.1634.
The popularity of the Evolution SHE98 and Integra SHX98 dishwashers among green building circles can be explained in a single number: 147%. That’s how much these two models exceed the minimum federal energy standard, with a yearly usage of 190 kWh. The EcoSense soil-sensing feature customizes the wash cycle for additional energy and water savings. Cycle options include EcoAction, which can reduce energy use another 25%, along with Half Load, QuickWash, and Sanitize settings. On top of that, the dishwashers also are some of the quietest on the market, operating at 42 dB. 800.944.2904.
Window manufacturers just might have one of the toughest jobs in providing green building products: making large “energy holes” in walls more efficient. They’ve come a long way, but there’s still lots of room for improvement. Serious Materials, following a recent acquisition of Alpen Energy Group, has once again taken the effort a giant step forward with the introduction of ThermaProof windows, which boast full-frame R-values from 5 to 15, a significant jump from the R-2.5 to R-3 of a typical double-pane, low-E unit. The windows are made up of three efficient components: window glass with a layer of metal-sputtered Mylar that boosts center-of-glass R-values; a choice of a foamed PVC frame or a fiberglass frame with soy foam insulation; and an Eco Spacer that reduces heat loss at the edges. With this introduction, the company is also looking to shift industry-accepted efficiency language to full-frame, rather than center-of-glass, and to R-value, which they say is more familiar and under-standable, rather than U-value. 800.797.8159.
Icestone doesn’t just talk the talk with its recycled glass countertops, it walks the walk from beginning to end. Currently the only durable surface to have achieved McDonough Braungart Design Chemistry’s Cradle to Cradle certification, VOC-free Icestone is made with 100% recycled glass in a cement matrix. To top it off, the surfaces are downright beautiful, available in an array of eye-catching color combinations for uses around the home. They are strong like granite and heat-resistant like stone, but are not as porous as marble, says the firm. The company’s environmental principles carry over to its office and factories with a laundry list of environmental and sustainability efforts on its résumé, including water management based on the Hannover Principles: Design for Sustainability, and the Water Principles of the World Business Council for Sustainable Development, and stressing social responsibility in its mission statement. More than 80% of the company’s waste is recycled, recovered, or composted. 718.624.4900.
Eleek combines elegant design and craftsmanship with an exemplary commitment to sustainability in the products it makes and the way it makes them. The company’s philosophy and greening efforts are among the best we’ve seen; its shop and office run on renewable energy, it has reduced product packaging, and it even uses salvaged lumber to make patterns and recycled abrasives to smooth finished surfaces. In addition to beautiful cabinet hardware, Eleek designs and manufactures durable cast metal sinks and sophisticated lighting fixtures. All of the metal in the company’s products is either 100% post-consumer recycled aluminum or 90% recycled bronze, and the company is looking into ways to incorporate recycled glass into its lighting products. 503.232.5526.
Icynene water-blown foam insulation expands to 100 times its volume to fill cracks and crevices and minimize air leakage. It carries an R-value of 3.6 per inch. The product also is available in a pour-fill variation that expands upward to 60 times its original volume; it will not expand outward and damage the wall. The pour-fill version has an R-value of 4 per inch. 800.758.7325.
Formaldehyde-free MR faced fiberglass batts use a water-based acrylic binder that meets California’s Section 01350 standards. The facing serves as an integral vapor retarder, chemically protected against potential fungi growth. The company claims to obtain its sand from sources close to the manufacturing plant to reduce transportation impacts, and 20% of its recycled content is post-consumer. 800.654.3103.
Sheep’s wool is an insulation product commonly used in Europe and available in the United States through the Internet. A natural insulator, wool has a slightly higher R-value per inch than fiberglass and does not lose its insulating property when wet. It has inherent properties that resist both flame and many insects, but remains susceptible to moths, so it is treated with boron. Thermafleece comes in 2-inch-thick batts cut to friction fit within 16- and 24-inch stud spacing. They carry an R value of 3.8 per inch and can be layered to achieve the desired total R value.
Unlike some traditional spray-foam insulation products that are petroleum-based and use HCFCs as blowing agents, BioBased 1701 is a soy-based, 100% water-blown, closed-cell polyurethane insulation. It has earned the Greenguard air quality certification. BioBased 1701 has an R-value of 19 at 3?1/2 inches. 800.803.5189.
Ultra Touch cotton friction-fit batt insulation can be used for 16- and 24-inch spacing. The product is made with 85% post-industrial recycled content. The line includes an R-30 batt that fits into 2x6 walls or joist cavities. Cotton insulation offers acoustic properties 36% higher than fiberglass, says the company, only slightly less than mineral wool. 480.812.9114.
The company’s magnesium silicate, cement-based insulation is foamed or pumped into closed cavities. This insulation is purportedly hypoallergenic and popular with chemically sensitive people, the company claims. Since it is not temperature sensitive, it can be installed indoors under any weather conditions and tolerates contact with high-heat sources, such as exhaust pipes, without concerns for combustion. The product is fully recyclable and can be used for soil enrichment. Air Krete has an R-value of about 3.9 per inch. 315.834.6609.
Thermafiber mineral wool insulation is made with up to 90% post-industrial recycled content. It exceeds the California purchase specifications for total volatile organic compounds and general emissions with formaldehyde concentrations of 12 ppb, exceeding the California standard of 20 ppb maximum for formaldehyde concentration. Thermafiber can provide high sound-transmission coefficients that improve indoor environmental quality. The product also offers fire resistance of more than 2,000 degrees F for more than five hours, the maker says. 888.834.2371.
AFT cellulose insulation is made from 85% post-consumer recycled newspaper and cardboard. The pulp is ground into a fine, fluffy powder, then treated with primarily boric acid and borax to render it fire resistant. The higher density of this cellulose insulation makes for a tight seal, second only to foam products in blocking air infiltration and sound deadening, says the company. The blown-in insulation provides an R-value of 3.8 per inch. 419.562.1337.
Designed for attic areas, InsulSafe SP blown-in fiberglass insulation is manufactured with no formaldehyde and is Greenguard certified. The product offers up to 20% better coverage versus competitors, the company says, with one bag covering up to 67 square feet. InsulSafe SP installed in the attic at 113/4 inches is R-30 and 141/2 inches is R-38.
Sealection Agribalance open-cell, semi-rigid, polyurethane spray-foam insulation contains more than 10% renewable, agriculture-based products, says the firm. The material expands to fill the cavity, sealing cracks, gaps, and voids. It provides an R-value of 4.45 per inch. 877.336.4532.
The manufacturer says its entire line of fiberglass insulation products has been certified by Scientific Certification Systems to contain an average of 35% recycled content, 5% of which comes from post-consumer sources. ProPink fiberglass insulation carries Greenguard certification, including its highest level with Greenguard Children & Schools product emission standards. 800.438.7465.
Classic Beaded Weatherboard
An addition to the Classic Clapboard line of solar-reflective, prefinished cellular PVC siding, Classic Beaded Weatherboard offers the look and milled edge of traditional Carolina weatherboard, says the firm. The product is 100% recyclable. Endorsed by Oak Ridge National Laboratory, the panels include Sherwin-Williams’ Polane two-part polyurethane finish with UV-reflective pigments, the company says, which keeps the walls cooler and helps lower cooling costs by up to 21%. 866.393.8883.
Asian-inspired Green Tea faucets combine elegant styling with up to 32% water savings over standard models; the WaterSense-listed faucet operates at 1.5 gpm. The Green Tea two-handle centerset and widespread lavatory faucets feature a discrete pullout spout that is virtually undetectable when not in use, the firm says. 800.899.2614.
The Grindzilla
The Grindzilla (C1400) mobile materials shredder and container for wood, drywall, and cardboard waste boasts a 2-ton-per-hour throughput rate and foreign matter recognition to mitigate contamination. The grinder offers a conveyor loading belt and optional side discharge for more flexibility. The 14-cubic-foot container enables easy transport to the recycling facility or other location for shredded material reuse. 678.569.0385.
Flame Tip LED Chandelier Bulbs
Flame Tip LED Chandelier bulbs offer the familiar shape and E12 candelabra-base of the 12-watt incandescent bulbs they replace, but house a cluster of LED lamps inside for a long life span of up to 50,000 hours. The bulbs, which come in warm white and “filament” white, consume 1.2 watts but provide 23 lumens. The LEDs are impervious to shock, the maker says. 800.579.4875.
Passive Solar Water Heating Systems
Solaraide passive solar water heating systems operate without pumps or controllers, instead relying on convection to circulate a freezeproof heat-transfer fluid in a closed-loop environment. The product combines a storage tank with one or two collector panels and comes in 47- or 80-gallon systems. Both models are Solar Rating and Certification Corp.-certified. 800.621.5622.
Mid-Century Modern Cabinets
Mid-Century Modern cabinets comprise 10 contemporary door styles, including Post Modern, Cubist, Route 66, and Biscayne Bay. The cabinet boxes are made with no-added-urea-formaldehyde agri-board, solid wood and veneers from sustainable resources, and low-VOC glues, binders, and adhesives, says the maker. The firm meets FSC and USGBC manufacturing standards. 503.335.9207.
LightLine Over-Door Canopies
LightLine over-door canopies feature stainless steel support arms, integrated aluminum gutters, and UV-resistant acrylic visor panels in clear or frosted finishes. The overhangs come in an easy-to-assemble kit and fit most standard entryways. Canopy styles include the Gable, the Arch, and the Curve. 800.888.2418.
This company remanufactures damaged and junk windshields for a range of uses, including shower doors and enclosures, walls, room dividers, door inserts, and decorative pieces. The glass can be framed, lighted, mounted, and hung like most glass, the company says, and color can be added. 503.750.3878.
Paper-Composite Surface Materials
Richlite paper-composite surface materials are now available in an FSC-certified line. The material, which can be used for countertops, stair treads, and other applications, is durable, stain resistant, and heat resistant up to 350 degrees. The collection has a matte finish and comes in seven colors, including the newest, chocolate glacier. 888.383.5533.
Platinum Ultimate prefab wall and roof panels combine light-gauge steel framing with reinforced polyurethane for lightweight, fast installation and an R-value of 23.4 (3?5/8-inch walls) or 36.3 (5?5/8-inch walls). Uninsulated panels are available for interior walls. The panels feature 18- or 20-gauge steel studs 16 or 24 inches on center. Wall segments screw into a steel track anchored to the foundation; panels connect to each other with self-tapping screws and are sealed with polyurethane foam. Designed to withstand strong winds, the panels have been approved under the Florida Product Approval process. 800.961.4880.
Low-VOC Paints
The company has added 18 new colors—including churlish green, cinder rose, and tanner’s brown, all shown here—to its paint lines, which include Estate Emulsion and Modern Emulsion low-VOC options. Estate Emulsion water-based paints are durable and wipeable, with a chalky matte finish and a 2% sheen level. Water-based Modern Emulsion has a 10% sheen level, and is stain resistant and completely washable, the firm says. 888.511.1121.
Gable-Mounted Solar Fan
The manufacturer now offers its solar-powered attic fan in a gable-mounted version for installation inside the attic. The Gable-Mounted Solar Fan requires no electrical wiring and consumes no electricity, powering itself via a remote solar panel that fastens to the roof. The unit removes heat and moisture from the attic and comes with an 11-, a 15-, or a 20-watt solar panel to accommodate various attic sizes. 219.558.2211.
Reclaimed FSC-Certified Flooring
Reclaimed FSC-certified flooring (such as flat-sawn heart pine, shown) is now available in engineered format, featuring a 4.8-mm reclaimed wood layer, FSC-certified domestic plywood, and formaldehyde-free glue. A range of recycled wood species is available, including ash, chestnut, oak, grey elm, maple, and jarrah. Fresh-sawn FSC-certified species also are available, along with siding reclaimed from old barns. 800.951.9663.
EcoSmart Fireplaces
EcoSmart fireplaces burn non-polluting denatured alcohol. The latest in the line, The Tower, was inspired by the Padella Romana lighting common in the homes of wealthy Patrician families during the Roman Empire, says the firm. The unit can be used indoors or outdoors, features treated and toughened glass and a powder-coated steel cabinet. The lever-operated flame can be regulated. 310.914.3335.
All of the company’s products are made with salvaged brass, aluminum, and other alloys. The Ravine bath sink, shown, is available in ebony, biscuit, almond, mystique, pearl, carnival, or ivory. 866.701.2284.