Building Performance Analysis
A Whole Systems Approach.
The component systems of a home are interrelated; changing one part without the consideration of the others can create a domino effect with negative outcomes. With knowledgeable consideration of the house as a system, changes in one part can augment the performance of other component systems and the house as a whole.
- Comprehensive Building Shell Inspection
- Heat & Moisture Transport Management
- Evaluating Combustion Safety
- Energy Audit
- Blower Door Testing: Despite the growing importance of house air tightness, few homeowners actually know how tight their homes are. Unfortunately, it is virtually impossible to accurately estimate the tightness level of a home by visual inspection alone.
- Duct Blaster: A calibrated air flow measurement system designed to test and document the air tightness of forced air duct systems. Duct air tightness measurements are used to diagnose and demonstrate leakage problems, estimate efficiency losses from duct leakage, and certify compliance with duct leakage standards.
- Infrared Camera Analysis: A state of the art diagnostic tool that shows exactly where the heat is flowing through the building envelope. It also shows where insulation is missing or lacking. Because it takes an actual picture, problems can be pinpointed exactly.
A review of results will be outlined at the time of the audit. A comprehensive written report with recommendations will then be provided within a few days. These suggestions will be prioritized (largest gain for least investment) to help make the decision on how to proceed.
Occupant Audit & Permaculture Design Report
A comprehensive energy audit will also consider occupant comfort… such as temperature, humidity and lighting. Recommendations for occupant energy conservation, and healthy, non-toxic home practices will be provided for greenwise living.
A review and recommendations report of a site analysis based on permaculture design principals will be included. Modern permaculture is a system design tool…a way of looking at a whole system or problem; observing how the parts relate, planning to mend sick systems by applying ideas learnt from long-term sustainable working systems and seeing connections between key elements . Water conservation and diversion, micro-climate creation for a longer growing season, edible forest gardens, and green roofs are just a few ways to maximize yields while reducing energy input.
Renewable Energy Consultations
In the field of renewables, information abounds and innovation is happening faster than the speed of light. So, what is right for your application? You can take the time to study the alternatives yourself and/or you can save time and money by getting a recommendation report while we are at your site.
Owners Consultant/Construction Manager
We understand that the scope of recommended work may be daunting and that the largest challenge is coordinating to get the work done. We have the experience and knowledge to manage your remodeling project from start to finish. We also are happy to work with you, if you choose to do the work and need occasional help and advice as they make their way through the process.
HERS Rating
HERS (Home Energy Rating System) is a nationally recognized standard for scoring the energy efficiency of a building. A score of 70 or below for instance, is now required for new construction in the City of Boulder, for buildings under 3,000 sq. ft.
Boulder County also has the Build Smart Program which regulates energy efficiency.
After you have completed your green upgrade based on the Energy Audit results, we suggest a HERS Rating be done. You will receive an advanced computer model and report of all the information complied from the diagnostic techniques listed above in the Energy Audit. This certificate will become one of the more important documents buyers will look to when you sell your home.
Advanced Home Diagnostic Indoor Air Quality Testing
American’s spend over 90% of their time indoors. The EPA has determined that indoor air is 4-5 times more polluted than outdoor air. We are contractors for the HomeAdvice™ system. Indoor air pollution and its health implications are a rapidly growing concern for families today. The problem is that without an air quality test there is no way to know if you and your family are exposed to toxics in your home. Indoor air pollution in your home can have a major effect on your family’s health. It contributes to lung disease, including respiratory tract infections, asthma, lung cancer, and can greatly exacerbate allergy symptoms. The test shows if the following are present in your home and at what level.
Particle Allergens,
Chemical Pollutants
Carbon Dioxide
Temperature
Relative Humidity
Carbon Monoxide,
Note: It can not identify the exact VOC’s, only that they are present and the level.
E-mail info@emergegreen.net
