Unit 1 Housing—Human Factors and Infl uences
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and maintenance. The planning of such buildings
uses green design or sustainable design. These
buildings use one or more green products or
measures in the structure. Green products conserve
scarce resources and generally utilize sustainable
and recyclable materials. For example, the use of
steel in construction more often replaces the use
of wood—wood is a limited commodity and
thereby is costly. Using bamboo for fl ooring can be
sustainable, depending on the source location and
production methods.
Although these homes conserve resources,
today’s green-built homes are virtually
indistinguishable from other homes. The following
include some uses of green products and design in
today’s typical homes:
• Doors and windows. Insulation in exterior doors
is an energy saver in cold and warm climates.
Insulated, low-E glass in windows helps keep homes
more comfortable and energy effi cient.
• Siding and decking. Vinyl and fi ber-cement
siding reduce the need for cedar, redwood,
and other products on exterior walls. Plastic
lumber and composite products (made from
recycled wood fi bers and plastics) are common
decking materials.
• Roofi ng. Such roofi ng materials as metal and fi ber-
cement are more durable. They reduce the need for
frequent roof replacement. Some older-style roofi ng
materials require frequent replacement and are a
major source of landfi ll waste.
• Heating, cooling, and hot water. High-
effi ciency heating, cooling, and water-heating
units greatly reduce energy use in most homes.
Using passive-solar design takes advantage of the
sun’s energy to help heat homes through glass
features with a southern exposure to the sun. In
addition, proper insulation of walls and attics
reduces energy loss in homes.
• Fixtures and appliances. New energy-effi cient
dishwashers, refrigerators, and clothes washers
require less energy. Look for the ENERGY STAR
label. New toilets and faucet aerators use less
water to operate (Figure 4.10).
The steps you take to conserve energy lower
energy costs, reduce pollution resulting from energy
production, and save valuable resources. What are
some simple steps you can take to start conserving
energy now and in your future work as a housing
and design professional? Continue reading to learn
more about special programs that promote green
and sustainable buildings.
Resources for Producing
Sustainable Design
Many programs clearly defi ne and direct the
building of structures/interiors that meet the criteria
of sustainable design. These certifi cation programs
guide professionals as well as consumers in reaching
green housing solutions.
There are also many labeling programs that
assist professionals and consumers in the selection
of green products. Each of these programs certifi es/
labels green components in different ways and some
are highlighted in Green Choices features throughout
this textbook. See the Green Choices box in this
chapter for a listing of these eco-friendly labeling
and certifi cation programs. A major program is
the Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design
(LEED) rating system. Sponsored by the U.S. Green
Building Council, this certifi cation program provides
sustainability guidelines for residential, commercial,
and other buildings. There are four levels of LEED
certifi cation: Certifi ed, Silver, Gold, and Platinum.
Examples of Sustainable
Buildings
As you read the Green Choices features throughout
this text, you will notice numerous programs and
organizations promote green and sustainable housing
design. Many provide certifi cation indicating that
houses have features that support the environment and
sustainability. One such outstanding organization is the
Southface Energy Institute.
Photo Courtesy of Kohler
Figure 4.10 New plumbing fixtures, such as this toilet,
are designed to use less water.