Healthy, efficient, sustainable home construction
Zawadski Homes is committed to healthy, energy-efficient, sustainable home construction. We install the latest window, roofing, HVAC and insulation technologies that minimize energy loss and efficiently heat and cool every home we build. Our construction teams pay attention to every detail to ensure the best utilization of those technologies. We are proud to have received Green Path certification in recognition of our work toward sustainable, energy-efficient home construction.
Why is sustainable home construction important?
16% of all Greenhouse Gases come from homes. The more efficient we make our homes, the less energy they use, the less exhaust they create and the less they cost to heat and cool. Rising greenhouse gas leves increase the average surface temperature of the earth over time. Rising temperatures may produce changes in precipitation patterns and storm severity like we’ve seen in Minnesota in recent years. This is commonly referred to as climate change.
Elements of sustainable home construction
- Tight building envelope
- Energy efficient windows and doors
- Efficient HVAC systems
- Energy-efficient appliances
- LED lighting
- Renewable energy
- Low emissions materials
- Low-flow plumbing fixtures
Following the Green Path of home construction
Every home built by Zawadski Homes is built to meet Minnesota’s Energy Code. It is tested and rated by a third-party evaluator. The evaluator assigns a HERS (Home Energy Rating System) index score. This index makes it easy to tell how efficient a home is, without having to understand the efficiency of every component, like the HVAC system, insulation, windows, etc. The lower a home’s HERS Index Score is, the better its efficiency. Learn more about the Green Path program.
Sustainably adding value
A new study conducted by Freddie Mac found that homes that were HERS rated sold for on an average 2.7% more than comparable unrated homes. Homes that received lower HERS Index Scores sold for 3 – 5% more than homes with higher HERS Index Scores.
Saving money through sustainable home construction
Sustainable home construction can have other financial benefits, too. Solar panels reduce dependence on purchased electricity and can generate excess energy that can be sold back to the utility. Energy-efficient appliances can create substantial utility savings, as well. Collecting rainwater with a rainwater harvesting system for non-potable uses, like lawn watering or flushing toilets, can reduce water utility bills. Smart home technologies, like automated thermostats and lights, can optimize energy usage and reduce waste. Sustainable construction helps both the environment and your bottom line.
Explore our sustainable home gallery
