Homeowners are increasingly interested in green building. But what exactly makes a home green? Energy efficiency is a great place to start.

We are proud to be an ENERGY STAR builder. All homes built by Alan Fletcher Construction are independently verified ENERGY STAR homes. Verification for ENERGY STAR qualification includes third party review of building plans and specifications as well as three trips to the job site by an independent auditor.

To earn the ENERGY STAR, a home must meet guidelines for energy efficiency set by EPA. These homes are at least 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code (IRC), and include additional energy-saving features that typically make them 20–30% more efficient than standard homes. These homes save money on utility bills, provide a more comfortable living environment with better indoor air quality, and help protect the environment.

ENERGY STAR construction adds $1.80 per square foot to construction costs. A $2000 tax credit is available for ENERGY STAR construction. For a 3,000 square foot home, the payback is 3 years and 3 months.

Alan Fletcher Construction ENERGY STAR qualified homes include:

• Effective Insulation
  Increased R-value insulation in floors, walls, and attics ensures even temperatures throughout the house, reduced energy use, and increased comfort.
  
  
• High-Performance Windows
  Energy-efficient windows employ advanced technologies, such as protective coatings and improved frames, to help keep heat in during winter and out during summer. These windows also block damaging ultraviolet sunlight that can discolor carpets and furnishings.
  
  
• Air Sealing Package
  Sealing holes and cracks in the home's "envelope" and crawl spaces before insulation and drywall and in heating and cooling duct systems helps reduce drafts, moisture, dust, pollen, and noise. A tightly sealed home improves comfort and indoor air quality while reducing utility and maintenance. Because an air-tight home is not healthy, we also include a fresh air exchange in your HVAC system.
  
  
• Efficient Heating and Cooling Equipment
  In addition to using less energy to operate, our highly energy-efficient heating and cooling systems are quieter, increase indoor humidity in winter, and improve the overall comfort of the home. When properly installed into a tightly sealed home, this equipment won't have to work so hard to heat and cool the home.
  
  
• Efficient Appliances
  Our ENERGY STAR qualified homes use instant tankless hot water heaters along with ENERGY STAR ventilation fans and appliances.
  
  
• Third-Party Verification
  Independent Home Energy Raters help us choose the most appropriate energy-saving features for the homes we build. Additionally, raters conduct onsite testing and inspections to verify the energy efficiency measures, as well as insulation, air tightness, and duct sealing details.