Energy Efficient Construction Idaho and Washington

ENERGY EFFICIENT CONSTRUCTION
	Insulated concrete forms (ICFs) are like industrial sized Lego building blocks. They are lightweight and stackable construction blocks, manufactured with high insulation-value foam, that are stacked into the desired shape. They are then reinforced with steel rebar and filled with concrete. With reinforced concrete as their principle structural component ICF walls have considerable strength. Wind ratings far surpass conventional wood frame construction. ICF walls also create a superior airtight envelope that blocks mold and moisture from entering your home. With the structural and insulation components of your home tied together ICF walls have no need for traditional fiberglass insulation.

	Passive solar water heating systems make use of the sun's energy to heat the water used throughout your home.

	Systems that use a geothermal loop field utilize the earth as a heat source in the winter and a heat sink in the summer. This system takes advantage of the moderate temperatures in the ground to increase the efficiency and reduce the costs of heating and cooling systems

	Hydronic Radiant Floor Heating systems circulate heated water through tubes in the floor and heat radiates upwards. Hydronic radiant heating is more efficient than baseboard heating because there is no loss of energy through air ducts. Hydronic systems can be combined with solar water heating for even greater energy efficiency.