NEW + NOTABLE

  • Kirei. Coco tiles are made with reclaimed coconut shells, low-VOC resins, and a sustainably harvested wood backer. Tiles in the Sumatra collection feature a variety of styles and textures that can lend a tropical look or a modern feel. They can be used for a range of applications, including walls, millwork, flooring, and cabinetry. 619.236.9924. www.kireiusa.com.

    New + Notable

    New products for sustainable homes, including a heat pump water heater, coconut tiles, low-flow toilets, and reflective roofing.

     

CASE STUDIES

  • Project: Timbercreek Zero-Energy House, Lewisville, TexasSize: 2,538 square feetBuilt Cost: $155 per square foot (not including some sponsor donations and discounts)Completed: November 2009Certifications: LEED-Platinum; Energy Star Qualified Homes; Green Built Texas; ANSI (pending) HERS rating: 1Builder: GreenCraft Builders, LewisvilleArchitect and Interiors: William Peck and Associates, Lewisville

    More Than Zero

    GreenCraft Builders' latest Texas project blends well with its 60s-era neighborhood, while its high-performance features push the boundaries of modern sustainability.

     
  • Project: 601 Third Avenue Remodel, Decatur, Ga.Size: 2,100 square feetPrice: $400,000Completed: July 2008Certifications: EarthCraft HouseHERS Rating: 58Architect: Eric Rawlings, Oakhurst, Ga.Remodeler: Renewal Design-Build, DecaturSite Engineer: Stability Engineering, Decatur

    Southern Charmer

    A savvy homeowner and a green-tuned remodeling team transform a tiny Georgia bungalow into an efficient, family-friendly home.

     

REVIEWS

  • Frigidaire. The Affinity series laundry set is rated for a modified energy factor (MEF) of 2.31 and a water factor (WF) of 3.8, or about 28% and 97% better than current thresholds, respectively. The washer offers spin cycles up to 1,100 rpm and purports a 25-minute wash cycle among 25 wash options, including an Energy Saver mode that automatically reduces water temperature. The 3.5-cubic-foot-capacity unit offers a stainless steel tub and drum. 800.374.4432. www.frigidaire.com.

    Positive Spin

    Special cycles, smart sensors, and new designs help the latest crop of washers save more energy and water than ever before.

     
  • Timber Products. The company’s softwood plywood comes in 8-, 9-, and 10-foot lengths; 4- and 5-foot widths; and thicknesses from 5/16 inch to 2 inches. It is available in several grades for sheathing, concrete forms, and underlayment. The panels are SFI-certified and are available with FSC certification. 800.547.9520. www.timberproducts.com.

    Greening the Shell

    Plywood vs. OSB: Which is the greener sheathing choice?

     

EDITORS' NOTE

  • Behind the Brands

    Manufacturers are moving beyond labels to truly expand their green-building expertise.

     

ECOUPDATE

  • Delta. The Linden pull-out kitchen faucet offers users a choice of a water-saving flow or a traditional flow. When turned on, the unit operates at 1.5 gallons per minute for needs such as hand washing; a push button on the spout can be depressed for a faster flow for tasks such as pot filling. Linden features a transitional style, with clean lines and a flared wand. The company’s Diamond Seal technology reduces leak points and simplifies installation. 800.345.3358. www.deltafaucet.com.

    Builders’ Show Green Finds

    6 products for sustainable homes, including solar shingles, a water-conserving kitchen faucet, and a CFL dimmer.

     

  • Legal Advice for Green Builders

    Use caution when touting the environmental attributes of your homes.

     

  • USGBC Connects Pros, Consumers

    Green Home Guides online tool offers consumers direct access to information and contractors.

     

  • Phase-Changing Drywall

    ThermalCore panels moderate interior temperature fluctuations and act as a thermal mass.

     

  • Smart-Grid Appliances

    Kitchen and laundry equipment will communicate between the utility and the homeowner to ensure appliances are operating at the optimum time of day.

     

  • California Adopts Green Building Code

    Residential requirements, which go into effect in 2011, include water-conserving fixtures, smart irrigation controllers, and jobsite waste reduction.

     

BUILDING SCIENCE

GREENWATCH

  • Team Solar

    The 2009 competition was a proving ground for a number of new solar-energy-generating products and materials.

     

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