Custom Builders USA (CB USA) members specialize in a variety of areas, and one of the increasingly requested specializations is green building. Homebuyers want to know that the home they build today will be efficient tomorrow. Recently, CB USA member Landmark Homes was awarded LEED Silver Certification by USGBC for its work at the Chandler Park community in Atlanta.
LEED for Homes is a green home certification program that rewards homes that are designed and built to be energy- and resource-efficient and more healthy and durable for the occupants. LEED-certified homes complete a technically rigorous process that often includes a home energy (HERS) rating and onsite inspections to verify that the home is built to be energy and water efficient, environmentally sound, and a healthier place to live.
Landmark Homes built a home at 403 Callan Circle, which is one of just 40 local homes certified using LEED. Matthew Clark and Leah Geis, owners of Landmark Homes, use their green building expertise to keep homeownership affordable.
“LEED certification is a realistic way to tackle the ever rising energy costs by cutting a home’s energy usage by as much as 60%, many case studies have shown,” said Nate Kredich, Vice President, Residential Market Development, USGBC. “Homeowners of 403 Callan Circle will be saving money year-round 24/7 by living in a LEED-certified home.”
The owners will enjoy features like GEO Thermal high efficiency Heating and Air systems, Low-e argon windows, high efficiency lighting fixtures, compact fluorescent bulbs and high density open cell spray foam insulation. Other energy efficiency upgrades include high efficiency water heaters, programmable thermostats, as well as high tech mechanical ventilation.
Low VOC (volatile organic compounds) paint and 90 percent Forest Stewardship Council-certified sustainably harvested wood content moldings have been used throughout the house. As a result of incorporating energy saving products and technologies, 403 Callan Circle has achieved a 93.3 Home Energy Rating System score. (Homes must achieve a minimum score of 86 – on a 100 point scale – to be deemed “ENERGY STAR” qualified).