It is quite challenging to build a home that is energy efficient. Regardless of its particular architectural style, it is important that materials are used that lower its heating and cooling bills and increase its R-value. This is something that Terra Group has become a true expert in. They have learned how to properly provide a thermal envelope to any construction project they finish, focusing on important technological advances in the field of sustainability.
Technology in Building
There have been a lot of development in heating and cooling systems, construction techniques, and building materials that make homes more energy efficient without compromising on its look. One of those techniques is ICF (Insulated Concrete Form construction. Here, two layers of EPS (extruded expanded polystyrene) are used to create a steel-reinforced center, covered by insulating foam. It is easy to cut these pieces to size and, once concrete sets, it essentially forms a triple insulation. Dry wall can cover the inside, an any decorative exterior can be used as well. ICF is the most energy efficient method of building today, as well as being the quickest to erect. It is also far stronger than other materials, exceeding both tornado and hurricane requirements.
Doors and windows also have to be monitored in energy efficient buildings. On average, 25% of the heat of a house is lost through the building’s windows. Hence, Terra Group has place a strong focus on addressing this. No matter what, windows will always insulate less than what walls do, but they don’t have to let every last bit of heat out. It is important that the windows are placed on the southern walls in colder climates, and that the surface area of window should never exceed 9% of the surface area of floor. Furthermore, the windows should be fitted with low solar heat gain coefficients. Furthermore, roofs should overhang any windows on the south of a building. Furthermore, the windows should not be sliding but rather should have awnings and casements. Cold climates should also avoid metal frames.
Terra Group always installs properly engineered ventilation systems to make sure air moisture is filtered properly, thereby ensuring the atmosphere is comfortable as well. They also install heat recovery and energy recovery ventilators. This means a heat exchanger is added that salvages around 80% of any energy that escapes from stale exhaust air, returning it fresh.
What the Terra Group is doing, is showing the world that it is possible to have a comfortable home with much smaller heating and cooling systems, so long as the construction is energy efficient. In so doing, they help people to save a great deal of money on the construction of the property and on their energy bills. Mainly, however, it helps to conserve the finite fossil fuels, of which the earth is quickly running out. They aim to be pioneers in the field, showing other architectural and construction firms that it is possible to be sustainable without compromising on beauty and modern convenience.
