Proper Insulation for Florida Architecture

Masonry walls normally have rigid insulation and pressure treated wood furring applied to the interior of the room for extra insulation and for a place to add drywall. Wood wall and attic construction normally is filled with 'batt' (fiber) insulation. In any case, keeping energy consumption efficient is one goal of competent architectural design in Florida.

Proper insulation can make a big difference

As an architect, I am getting more requests for sustainable architecture or green architecture to be built into my designs. Many lots lend themselves to earth contact, natural shade and southern exposure for winter heat (also known as "passive solar" technology). Proper insulation can make a big difference, no matter what style of architectural design you intend to use. This is true in design of a new home or a home addition/ renovation.

Even those that are considering alternative energy sources, such as wind or solar power for their home can use green architecture during the planning stages or in preparation for renovations. Sustainable architecture takes advantage of natural elements and it can include hard and soft landscaping to enhance the insulation value of a building. Many people are considering the difference that proper insulation can make in energy expenses.

When it comes to green architecture of a new building, the site selection can determine the building's placement and design. In sustainable architecture, you want to consider the location of the building to make the building more energy efficient using natural elements, in addition to those that can lead to sustainable energy options.

For example, it's not unusual to find earth contact homes that have living gardens on the rooftop, also known as "green" roofs. Not only can this be a great way to grow herbs, vegetables, and flowers, but the soil layer insulates the building. Even growing grasses on a flat rooftop can make the building cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Proper structural design and waterproofing are critical for this type of design, and, naturally, have budget consequences. This "garden roof" concept is most valid in a more modern style of home, which is not everyone's "cup of tea". There are numerous "tricks" that can enhance the energy efficiency of other architectural styles.

An architect that understands green architecture and sustainable architecture can help you plan energy efficient buildings that have the proper insulation levels, through natural sources and through the building's location and its orientation on the lot. In addition, adding extra insulation is one of the most cost effective ways to save energy costs. Currently the federal government is offering $1,500 in tax credits for upgrading the energy efficiency of an existing home. If you are in areas where solar energy is feasible, there are many attractive ways to build green architecture into your home, such as some of the new solar panel roofing shingles, solar panels, and "solatube" skylights.

Use of wind power in rural locations that experience high, consistent winds can be a great way to build sustainable architecture into your home, while using "green" architecture to make the home more energy efficient. Installation/ budget considerations should be reviewed before "jumping into" any alternative source, however. One should consider how long it would take to "pay for" the alternative energy source as a practical matter. No matter what alternative energy sources you might consider, proper insulation levels in roof/ attic spaces and walls are perhaps the key to have a comfortable home, whether or not you add "green" features.

By proper placement of bushes, tree rows, windows, doors and building exposures, you can take advantage of natural insulating factors that can save you on your energy bill and add to a building's attractiveness. Sustainable architecture doesn't have to involve recycled elements-it can also include affordable materials that are low maintenance and use green techniques to replace conventional building products, such as a "living roof" or "green roof". Your architect can get you started with discussions about newer (and "tried and true") features to make your home more energy efficient.

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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.