Green Building

RobPickett &Associates, LLC

Providing technical services since 2001

Green Building

Contact Info

P.O. Box 490

11 Stimpson Hill

Hartland, V 05048

Phone & Fax: 802-436-1325

E-mail: robpickett@vermontel.net

This site was last updated

October 7, 2011

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Green building is not a fad, and it doesn’t have to be expensive. Reports of increased expense relates to implementation of alternative energy sources/systems such as photovoltaic arrays, geothermal, and others. Or it may be related to super-insulated thermal envelope assemblies, or perhaps there are special green products that the homebuyer has specified. Green can be accomplished by using good building practice, attention to detail, and planning the project completely (including land/lot development) before the first blade of grass is touched.

Building systems offer green benefits because the design work must be completed before materials can be produced. This is difficult for many traditional custom builders who work through each phase of construction with the homebuyer, allowing changes. With green building, the decision-making process is accelerated and moved ahead of action.

Paying attention to the site prior to disturbing any portion of it is a key element to maximizing the green benefits in this area of the ICC700 standard. With a strong point count for land development and building systems, a Silver certification in the NAHBRC National Green Building Program (www.nahbgreen.org) is very realistic. Focusing on EPA programs (Energy Star, WaterSense, Indoor AirPlus) adds even more points as does owner training and education via a good Owner’s Manual and video of the home in process.

For a successful project, keep an eye on product certifications and make sure that connecting products are compatible. Click on the logos below for links to more information that will help achieve green certification.

BGNH @ Manchester Wolves

Click on the photo to the left to go to the BGNH newsroom for the event.

Pictured Steering Committee members Rob Pickett, Rick Bouchard (Chair), Carlene Goguen, and Tom Werst (Vice Chair).