Certification Programs for Remodeling: November 2008 Archives
How Healthy Are National Green Building Programs?, The National Center for Healthy Housing (NCHH) compared green building and indoor air quality guidelines.
The study recommends the following improvements be made to several programs to reduce contaminants:
Except for the NAHB (National Association of Home Builders) all programs require compliance with the ventilation standard ASHRAE 62.2. NCHH recommends NAHB add this requirement to their guidelines.
The study recommends the following improvements be made to several programs to reduce contaminants:
- Avoid the use of mold susceptible materials in areas likely to get wet (bathrooms). Use dense glass gypsum board instead of paper-backed gypsum board.
- Require sub-slab depressurization systems [radon mitigation system ] in new homes to help reduce soil odors.
- Set the hot water heater to 120 degrees F. This is primarily a safety issue although setting the temperature to 120-140°F vs. 160-180°F saves 10% energy as well.
Except for the NAHB (National Association of Home Builders) all programs require compliance with the ventilation standard ASHRAE 62.2. NCHH recommends NAHB add this requirement to their guidelines.
