Green Architecture in Florida

• 'tankless' water heater
  
• solar panels
  
• solar tubes
  
• 'zoned' heating and cooling systems
  
• soy based insulation
  
• SIP (structural insulated panels)
  
  

Tankless water heater
Also know as 'on demand' water heaters, tankless water heaters do not waste energy heating water when hot water is not needed. The system heats water when you turn on the tap, and shuts down when there is no demand. Tankless water heaters are relatively small and can be located on a garage wall without using as much space as the traditional water heater. Most experts agree that gas (or propane) models are much more energy efficient than electric driven tankless water heaters. Tankless water heaters are, as of this writing, more expensive than traditional water heaters, but manufacturers of the tankless heaters claim that that extra cost can be 'captured' within two years.

Solar panels
Solar panels are most often located on a west or south facing rooftop. The energy stored in solar panels help augment and support the primary energy system. Solar panels commonly help reduce pool heating costs.

Solar tubes
A variety of skylight, solar tubes are round shafts that allow natural sunlight into what otherwise could be a 'dark zone'. Aside from providing more pleasing light in daytime hours, solar tubes can reduce energy costs in that artificial light sources will be less frequently used.

Zoned heating and cooling systems
Now fairly common in newer homes, zoning can be a very efficient tool in reducing energy costs. The house is effectively divided into two or more zones, each of which has its own thermostat. The owner can 'turn down' areas of the home not currently in use. For example, it's beneficial to reduce cooling (or heating) loads in general living areas and focus on bedrooms at night.

Soy based insulation
Relatively new, soy based insulation can be used in lieu of other 'spray on' type insulations. Soy based insulation is a 'renewable' product and is resistant to mold spores.

SIP (structural insulated panels)
SIP is not a new idea, but is becoming more popular for a number of reasons. SIP is typically a 4" or 6" foam panel with a light gauge steel channel support system. SIP panels typically are used at the exterior walls of the structure, replacing masonry or wood stud exterior walls. SIP can be used in commercial or residential construction. A few of the advantages of SIP are:

• superior insulating value to masonry or wood stud construction.
  
• easier and quicker to stand in place, making for quicker 'dry in' time.
  
• lightweight in nature, a SIP panel can be lifted by one or two people. For a trained contractor, these attributes make for lower labor costs, which can save on the 'bottom line' cost of construction.
  
• accepts exterior siding, stucco, stone accents, etc. as easily as 'traditional' construction methods.
  
• no need for conventional wood roof trusses- the SIP can act as the roof structure system.
  
• no chance for termite infestation (as is the case in wood construction).
  
• no mold issues with SIP.
  
• structurally stable. SIP is accepted by Florida building departments and is able to withstand high wind forces equal to or greater than conventional building systems (masonry and wood).

• New home design

• Design home additions

• Design home remodels

• Floor plan design

• Exterior design

• Site design

• Construction documents

• Building department plans

• Construction plans

Give me a call at (813) 838-0425 with any questions or comments about your Florida residential project. Residential Architect Florida: Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Brandon, Bradenton, Lutz, Tarpon Springs, Land O' Lakes, Wesley Chapel and Springhill.