At AA Craftsman, we care about doing our part to advance the green building movement. By staying current with green building techniques and using products that are environmentally friendly, we are able to make it easy for our green-minded clients to achieve their goals of doing their part too.
Remodeling is a form of green building, by nature. By taking what is old and transforming it into something new, we are able to minimize the amount of new materials that are used. Often an older home can surpass modern energy efficiency standards by simply installing new insulation or replacing old windows.
We are well versed in green building techniques and it is our pleasure to help our clients make decisions about how they can make environmentally friendly choices that don't always add costs. We have included a partial list of some green building topics that are important to AA Craftsman.
In his book Green Remodeling, David Johnson defines thermal bridging as, "…a break in the continuity of insulation in a wall, ceiling, or floor, which allows heat to flow more readily between the inside and outside of a home." Wood is not a good insulator, so when walls only have insulation between studs, thermal bridges are created that let heat escape. Unfortunately, this scenario is a reality for many homes. However, when we remodel homes, we have the opportunity to reduce thermal bridging and make homes more energy efficiency.
The best way to reduce thermal bridging in wood framed walls is to place a rigid layer of insulation on the exterior side of the studs. Also, the important role that thoughtful placement of framing materials plays in reducing thermal bridging cannot be understated. Instead of framing a corner with 4 pieces of wood, we use 2 properly placed pieces to achieve the same structural integrity, while minimizing new material usage and thermal bridging.
In addition to remodeling, we specialize in window replacement. Draperies and honeycomb shades can only do so much to decrease the heat loss from windows. Often, the only way to properly insure that excessive heat loss is not occurring from older windows is to replace them. Whether it's one window or an entire home window replacement project, we get the job done with precision and we select energy star rated windows.
We are proud to feature Andersen windows. Andersen windows are beautiful and energy efficient. They are Energy Star rated and certified with the National Fenestration Rating Council. Until June 31, 2008, homeowners who install at least 7 Andersen windows in their homes qualify for a $250 rebate. Also, windows that exceed current energy efficiency standards, like Andersen windows, also qualify for a 25% Montana tax credit.
AA Craftsman implements jobsite recycling. Some of the materials we recycle include cardboard, electrical wire, plumbing, pipes, ducts, and studs are reused when possible. Because we feel it is our responsibility to be environmentally sustainable with our actions and choices as a company, we don't even question jobsite recycling. We recycle so you can be rest assured that just by commissioning AA Craftsman to perform your remodeling job, you are making a positive difference in our community.
AA Craftsman does more for the Gallatin Valley green building movement by choosing environmentally sensitive products and building methods. Products like Hardy Plank siding, OSB plywood, engineered lumber, solvent-free construction adhesives, and low VOC paint are considered sustainable products. Also, Andersen windows are created using factory recycled materials whenever possible.
We work with existing framing when ever possible to minimize the use of new wood. By doing so, we are able to help save our forests and your pocketbook.
Often, people who are considering adding an addition to their home do not realize the opportunity they have to utilize the power of passive solar heating. Depending on the specifics regarding the location and surrounding features of where windows or additions are being placed, AA Craftsman can help homeowners to make design decisions that will maximize the heating ability of the sun.
The topics we have mentioned are just the tip of the ice burg; we could write volumes about Green Building. It is an ever changing movement that AA Craftsman is committed to keeping current on and contributing to. Every project we undertake has a unique opportunity to utilize sustainable building strategies. When we come to your home or business we will provide you with a free consultation. During that time, we will point out green opportunities for you to consider.
By making environmentally friendly choices about your remodel, you can be proud that you have done your part to make the world a better place. Also, future buyers of your home will appreciate the choices you have made to make your home extra special.
We make it easy to be green with your remodeling project. We have done all of the research and are ready to provide you with the information and bottom line of what it will take to make your home beautiful and green.