Understanding Key Terms for Sustainable Home Building

1. R-Value: This measures the effectiveness of insulation material in resisting heat flow. Higher R-values mean better insulation and energy efficiency for your home.

2. Air Exchanges Per Hour (ACH): ACH indicates how many times the air within a building is replaced with outside air in an hour. A balanced ACH is crucial for maintaining indoor air quality and energy efficiency.

3. Passive Solar Design: This design strategy leverages natural sunlight to heat and light a building, reducing the need for artificial heating and lighting and minimizing energy consumption.

4. Thermal Mass: Materials with high thermal mass, like rammed earth, absorb and store heat energy. This helps regulate indoor temperatures by releasing heat during cooler periods and absorbing excess heat when it's warmer.

5. Balanced Ventilation: A balanced ventilation system brings in fresh air while exhausting stale air, ensuring good indoor air quality and consistent temperature control without significant energy loss.

6. Sound Dampening: This refers to methods and materials used to reduce noise levels within a building, creating a quieter and more comfortable living environment.

7. Insulation: Insulation materials prevent heat transfer between the inside and outside of a building. Proper insulation keeps your home warm in winter and cool in summer, boosting energy efficiency.

8. Products Sourced Locally: Using locally sourced materials reduces transportation costs and carbon emissions, supports the local economy, and ensures the sustainability of your building project.

9. Reduced Heating and Cooling Costs: Implementing efficient insulation, balanced ventilation, thermal mass, and passive solar design can significantly lower your energy bills by minimizing the need for artificial heating and cooling.