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Resources

Green Building Professionals Directory
Looking for a green builder, expert in solar energy or alternative wastewater systems, or other professional who understands sustainability? Check this directory! And if you are a Green Professional, be sure you’re listed!

Sustainable Sources (formerly the Sourcebook)
One of the first and still one of the best in-depth documents on materials and methods for building green. Over 40 chapters on many important aspects of building sustainably – whether buidng new or remodeling – from rainwater harvesting to compost toilets, from radiant barriers to flyash concrete, from insulation to non-toxic termite control.

Sustainable Building Calendar
Add your event to the Sustainable Building Calendar! Post those workshops and barnraisings! Tell everyone about your conference! Or find an event to attend!

International Straw Bale Building Registry

Recommended discussion lists and forums Looking for a place to ask your questions or share your expertise? Email discussions, newsgroups, and real time chats devoted to sustainable topics.

Green Building Materials Databases

Associations and membership groups

Groups working toward a greener built world

Green Building programs
Governmental

The Department of Energy’s Center for Excellence for Sustainable Development
Arlington County Virginia
Austin Energy’s Green Building Program, Austin, TX
Build San Antonio Green
Built Green, Master Builders Association of King & Snohomish Counties, WA
Kansas City Build Green
Alameda County Waste Management Authority, Alameda County, CA
Maryland Department of Natural Resources Green Building Program

Utility Industry programs

Earth Advantage Homes, Portland General Electric
Memphis EcoBUILD

Building Industry Association Programs

Earth Craft House, Greater Atlanta HBA
Build a Better Kitsap, Kitsap County HBA, WA
California Green Builder, Building Industry Institute
Built Green Colorado, HBA of Metro Denver
Built Green/Green Space Southwestern WA

Local initiatives

Pittsburg Green Building Alliance, Pittsburg, PA
Florida Green Building Coalition Florida
GreenHomeNYC, New York, NY
Green Building Alliance, Santa Barbara, California
Greater Cleveland Green Building Coalition, Cleveland, Ohio
Green Building Association of Central Pennsylvania
Green Built Home, Wisconsin
Northwest Ecobuilding Guild
Southface Energy Institute, Atlanta, Georgia
Design~Build~Live, Austin, Texas
Vermont Building for Social Responsibility
Western North Carolina Green Building Council

Rating systems

Publications

Case Studies

Casas Que Cantan (Houses That Sing), Save The Children Foundation building, and more
Red Feather Development Group brings volunteers and tribal members together to learn straw bale building methods.
The Casa Verde program of American Youthworks teaches to sustainable building skills at-risk youth while constructing homes for needy families.

Country Abbreviations

Non Toxic Termite Control

DEFINITION
CONSIDERATIONS
COMMERCIAL STATUS
IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
GUIDELINES

CSI Numbers:

022 – 800
028 – 324
029 – 500
033 – 100
063 – 100
061 – 250
071 – 100 to 071 – 920
076 – 219

DEFINITION:

Non-toxic termite control is the use of termite prevention and control without chemical use. Instead, physical controls are installed during construction such as sand barriers or metal termite shields. If termite infestation does occur, least toxic methods of treatment are used.

CONSIDERATIONS:

Most areas of Texas have termites. These include subterranean termites that live in the soil and drywood termites that attack dry wood. According to the Texas Agricultural Extension Service, there is a greater than 70 percent probability that wooden structures in Texas will be attacked by termites within 10 to 20 years. Termite problems within one year after construction have been reported.

When wood is used as a building material, termite prevention in the form of treated wood or naturally resistant wood will be required by building codes. Typically, chromated copper arsenate (CCA) pressure-treated wood is used. Two alternative chemical substances have gained popularity as more toxic substances such as chlordane have been banned for soil treatment. These include organophosphates and pyrethroids. However, these chemicals are toxic to people as well as termites, and can offgas and leach out into the soil and water table. They can be absorbed through the skin, lungs and through ingestion. Exposure to small children, workers, chemically-sensitive individuals and animals can lead to serious health problems.

Less toxic wood treatments are available. (See Wood Treatment Section.) However, alternatives to wood treatment and chemical treatment can be quite effective. Least-toxic strategies must be used in combination to achieve maximum effectiveness. Few pest control managers expect non-toxic methods to completely replace chemical use. However, they offer considerable potential for the reduction of chemical use, and may prevent such use in all but extreme situations.

	Commercial Status			Implementation Issues
	T E C H N O L O G Y	S U P P L I E R S	C O S T	F I N A N C I N G	A C C E P T A N C E	R E G U L A T O R Y
sand barrier, termite shields

	Satisfactory
	Satisfactory in most conditions
	Satisfactory in Limited Conditions
	Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS

TECHNOLOGY:

Research and monitoring is underway to test the effectiveness of non-toxic termite prevention techniques. The USDA Southern Forest Experiment Station in Gulfport, Mississippi, and the University of Hawaii are doing research. Successful laboratory results have been obtained with the use of properly designed sand barriers. Pest control professionals in California have adapted and tested sand barriers with good results. Some studies in California have found some physical barriers to be 15% more effective than chemical treatments.

SUPPLIERS:

There are architects and pest management companies in Austin that can provide expertise and services in non-toxic termite prevention and control. However, not all professionals currently have knowledge or experience with non-toxic termite control.

COST:

Initial costs of non-toxic termite prevention may be 25% higher than chemical controls. However, these costs may be offset due to the long term nature of structural solutions. In addition, cost offsets can occur if traditional fill material is replaced with sand or cinder barriers, preventing the need for termiticides.

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES

FINANCING:

Lenders will typically look for traditional methods for the prevention of termites, such as the use of treated wood. Educating lenders about the effectiveness of non-toxic prevention measures and encouraging financing incentives for their use is a goal of the Green Builder Program.

PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:

For successful termite prevention using non-toxic methods, education and cooperation between the professional and the resident/owner will be necessary. Increased monitoring after construction will be necessary.

REGULATORY:

Building codes (such as Section R-310 of the CABO One and Two Family Dwelling Code) call for protection by chemical soil treatment, pressure-treated wood, naturally termite-resistant wood (such as heartwood of redwood and eastern red cedar), or physical barriers approved by the building official in areas with subterranean termites. Approved combinations of methods may be used.

For decay prevention, any wood (siding, trim, framing) within 6 inches of the finished grade must be protected. Additionally, wood girders within 12 inches, wood structural floor within 18 inches, and wood sills on masonry slabs within 8 inches must also be protected. Decay prevention and termite protection are addressed jointly with wood treatment and naturally resistant wood. Structural controls for termites such as sand barriers and termite shields will not eliminate the need for decay prevention in wood within the distances from the ground mentioned above.

The Honolulu building code was rewritten in 1991 to include the use of sand barriers instead of chemical controls. The City of Austin will examine precedents accepted by other jurisdictions on a case-by-case basis.

GUIDELINES

Any pest management program that uses the principles of Integrated Pest Management (IPM), or least toxic methods, will have the following components:

Integration of least-toxic treatment methods and materials;
Monitoring;
Detection and identification.

No method of termite treatment can be assumed to be 100% effective. In homes with wood as a construction material, regular inspections should be performed, regardless of treatment and prevention methods. The best method is non-toxic prevention, however there are also non-toxic treatment methods if termites are found.

1.0 Prevention

The only sure prevention of termite problems is the use of building materials other than wood. However, if wood is used, there are preventative measures available to the builder other than chemical treatments and treated wood products. A common tree in Austin known to resist termites is the familiar mountain cedar (actually a member of the juniper family). Although not commercially lumbered, natural cedar posts have traditionally been used as foundation piers on old structures, and extensively for fences and furniture. The use of juniper wood has some potential for application as a termite and insect resistant wood.Eliminating sources of chronic moisture in the home is one of the most important factors in managing subterranean termites, carpenter ants, and some wood boring beetles. Moist soil is necessary for termites to survive. Termites travel back and forth between soil and food sources because they must obtain moisture from the soil. In addition, capillary action and water vapor buildup can result in excessive dampness which can actually wick through a concrete slab or masonry foundation to the wood framing above it, thus attracting termites.

In above-ground foundations, moisture barrier films such as 6 mil polyethylene can be used to cover the area under the structure. This will help decrease moisture buildup in sub-flooring. Foundation wall vents should be placed to provide cross ventilation for homes with crawl spaces. If re-grading or remodeling covers vents, additional vents may be needed. Some experts recommend the use of moisture barriers under slab foundations as well.

Soil should always be from 6 to 18 inches below any wood member, the greater the distance, the better. Good siting and drainage design will help to prevent moisture buildup in and around the structure. All exterior grades should slope away from the structure to provide drainage. Porches and features such as planter boxes should be constructed and sealed to prevent moisture and soil contact with the structure.

Exterior landscaping should not cause moisture build-up around the foundation. A small air space should be retained between plant leaves and walls to prevent moisture and mold build-up. Automatic irrigation heads should be properly aligned or shielded to prevent direct spray onto the building.

Areas subject to moisture build-up, such as bathrooms, should be given special attention since they are likely to be attack areas. Areas under tubs and drains leading to the exterior (such as air conditioner drains) should be considered vulnerable spots.

All wood-to-soil and wood-to-concrete contacts should be eliminated for fence and deck posts, rail supports, and trellises etc. Posts should be placed in metal holders (commercially available). Even treated deck piers may not deter termites since they may bypass the treated piers to reach untreated decking above.

All wood subject to moisture, especially exterior wood, should be properly sealed. Exterior windows, even if under an overhang such as a porch, should be completely moisture sealed. Exterior siding, especially along the bottom wall edges, should be completely moisture sealed on all exposed surfaces.

All lumber scraps, wood debris and stumps should be removed from the site after construction is complete. Backfill under a foundation should never contain wood scraps, and scrap should never be left in crawlspaces or under foundations. Such scraps are invitations to termites to eat first the scrap and then move on to the main structure.

2.0 Sand Barriers

Sand barriers for subterranean termites are a physical deterrent because the termites cannot tunnel through it. Sand barriers can be applied in crawl spaces under pier and beam foundations, under slab foundations, and between the foundation and concrete porches, terraces, patios and steps. Other possible locations include under fence posts, underground electrical cables, water and gas lines, telephone and electrical poles, inside hollow tile cells and against retaining walls.

Sixteen grit sand or cinder is placed in a 20-inch band on the soil surface or in trenches next to foundation walls. The sand layer should be 4 inches thick at the foundation, and feathered out to meet grade at the outer edge of the 20-inch band. For trench installations, trenches should be 4″ deep and 6″ wide.

Some integrated pest management experts have developed a machine, called a sand pump, that blows sand under the house. For sand barriers around the outside perimeter of a foundation, they recommend a sand trench in order to avoid disturbance of the sand. In addition, a cap made of masonry or other materials may be recommended to protect the barrier from gardening, animals, etc. Tamping of sand can be done to increase impermeability to termite attack.

2.1 Slab Barriers

Termites can easily pass through small cracks, as small as 1/32″, which may occur in slab foundations. For sand barriers in conjunction with slab foundations, the sand or cinder must be applied before the foundation is poured. Installing the sand layer of the appropriate mesh size followed by a layer of coarser gravel for grading to the desired level has worked well. To cut costs, sand treatments may be installed in particularly vulnerable areas of the slab, such as around pipe penetrations, as opposed to under the entire slab.

Costs for cinder fill under a slab can often be competitive with the costs of standard fill and the initial chemical termite treatment.

2.2 Sand Selection

The size of sand particles is critical to the success of sand barriers. Sand or grit size should be no larger or smaller than that able to sift through a 16-mesh screen. Sand smaller than 16-grit can be carried away by termite workers; larger sand can support tunnel construction by termites. If the sand to be used has some particles smaller than 16-mesh size, sand can be screened with mesh of the appropriate size. Certain grades of sandblasting sand which come in bags may be suitable for barriers. Crushed volcanic cinder of the appropriate size is recommended by some experts.

2.3 Performance

Sand barriers can also be used to repair seals that have become broken between foundations and other building elements such as porches. Such settling and breaking of “cold” joint seals can occur due to subsidence and temperature extremes. In laboratory tests, sand was shown to retain its “seal” against structural members after movement similar to earthquakes. Although earthquakes are not a problem in our area, soil movement and settling due to expansive soils is often a problem.

Use of sand barriers is still experimental, and must be followed with post-installation as well as regular inspections. Sand barriers may cost 25 % more than conventional chemical treatments, however the physical barrier will provide long term protection. Chemical prevention is normally guaranteed for only one year, and introduces toxins into the home environment.

3.0 Metal Termite Shields

Metal termite shields are physical barriers to termites which prevent them from building invisible tunnels. In reality, metal shields function as a helpful termite detection device, forcing them to build tunnels on the outside of the shields which are easily seen. Metal termite shields also help prevent dampness from wicking to adjoining wood members which can result in rot, thus making the material more attractive to termites and other pests.

Metal shields are used in conjunction with concrete or solid masonry walls, and are fabricated of sheet metal which is unrolled and attached over the foundation walls. The edges are then bent at a 45 degree angle. Metal shields must be very tightly constructed, and all joints must be completely sealed. Any gaps in the seals will allow an entry point for termites. Joints may be sealed by soldering, or with a tar-like bituminous compound.

Metal flashing and metal plates can also be used as a barrier between piers and beams of structures such as decks, which are particularly vulnerable to termite attack.

4.0 Monitoring, Detection and Identification

The Bio-Integral Resource Center (see Resources, General Assistance) recommends the following steps:

Monitor the building at least once per year.
Identify the species of termite.
Correct structural conditions that led to the infestation.
Apply physical or biological controls.
Spot treat with chemicals if necessary.
Check for effectiveness and repeat if required.

Regular termite monitoring should be done with a plan of the structure in hand. This will help to identify inaccessible areas that may be hard to spot with a visual inspection. Annual or bi-annual inspections are recommended.

Subterranean termites build characteristic mud tubes for movement between nests. The appearance of these tubes are often the first sign of infestation. Detection can become difficult if such tubes are hidden inside walls, or termites are entering in cracks occurring in concrete slabs or foundations.

Dogs are being used by some individuals to aid in termite inspection. These dogs are trained to detect termites and other wood damaging insects, and can provide information about inaccessible areas of the structure. Their keen sense of smell coupled with their ability to wriggle into areas too small for human access can make the dog-assisted inspection a valuable tool.

5.0 Termite treatment

The first step in any termite treatment is accurate identification of the species. Next, location of nests must be found. Next, selection of a combination of least toxic strategies and tactics is necessary.

When selecting a pest management company, be sure to choose a reliable firm. Texas law requires commercial pesticide applicators to be certified. Check for certification documentation, references, and work experience, or check with the Structural Pest Control Board of Texas. Ask if the company practices integrated pest management techniques, or has an experimental license which may be necessary for some alternative techniques.

Non-toxic treatments include use of nematodes (microscopic worms), especially for chemically-sensitive individuals or environmentally-sensitive areas. Nematodes are pumped into the infested area, where they will kill the insects. Boric acid bait blocks can be placed around the structure, where they will attract the pests to consume termiticides without broad application of chemicals. Drywood termites can be treated with thermal, freezing, or electrical eradication techniques. Desiccating dusts, non-toxic substances resulting in pest dehydration and death, have also been used successfully on drywood termites.

These treatments can be combined with others, such as installing metal shields (if they have not been used previously), sealing of broken seals or open areas, and re-grading of soil outside the foundation to improve drainage or create a gap between soil and wood areas such as siding. In addition, termites can be physically removed by trapping or nest excavation.

Structural Insulating Wall Panels (SIPs)

DEFINITION
CONSIDERATIONS
COMMERCIAL STATUS
IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
GUIDELINES

CSI NUMBER:

07410 Preformed Wall & Roof Panels

DEFINITION

Structural panels are typically two outer layers of structural sheathing material separated by an insulated core. They are made in different sizes according to the job’s requirements.

CONSIDERATIONS:

Structural panels replace the standard stud/insulation/sheathing wall system. Some panels have sheetrock mounted on the inside portion, and/or siding on the exterior. Most have sheathing such as OSB for facings.

Panels can be fabricated with three types of foam cores: molded expanded polystyrene (MEPS), extruded polystyrene (XEPS), and urethane (polyurethane and polyisocyanurate are types of urethane). There are several options for facings: plywood, waferboard, oriented strand board (OSB), sheetrock, and metal. Exterior surface materials such as T-1-11 siding are offered by some suppliers. XEPS and urethane foam use CFC’s or HCFC’s as blowing agents. MEPS does not use any ozone-depleting chemicals. For credit from the Green Builder Program for this option, MEPS insulation or an alternative that has no ozone-depleting chemicals must be used. Additionally, waferboard, OSB, sheetrock and/or siding need to be used as facings.

Foam insulation can attract insects. Some companies use borates as an insect barrier in the foam insulation. This is a preferred strategy for protecting the panels. Borates are also topically applied to the facings by some companies.

Structural grade adhesives should be used to bind the facings to the foam core. Use the manufacturer warranty as a gauge of the quality of the product. Poor adhesive qualities can cause panel failure. Select panels that are certified to meet building codes.

Structural panels offer very effective insulating qualities, rapid installation, and consistent quality (minimizing waste). The use of OSB or waferboard for facings is considered a positive use of wood resources.

	Commercial Status			Implementation Issues
	T E C H N O L O G Y	S U P P L I E R S	C O S T	F I N A N C I N G	A C C E P T A N C E	R E G U L A T O R Y
Structural Wall

	Satisfactory
	Satisfactory in most conditions
	Satisfactory in Limited Conditions
	Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS

Technology:

Many manufacturers make structural panels. Quality control is inconsistent in the industry and product development is continuing.

SUPPLIERS:

Available locally and regionally.

COST:

$1.75 to $2.75 per square foot or higher (material only). This can be slightly higher than conventional framing costs.

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES

FINANCING:

Available if panels are code compliant.

PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:

Good

REGULATORY:

Not all panels have been tested for code compliance. Make certain that the panel as a whole is code compliant, not just the components of the panel. This information is provided by the manufacturer.

GUIDELINES

1.0 Ordering panels

Specify MEPS with borate treatment for insulation or other non ozone-depleting insulation.

Use waferboard or OSB facings. These materials do not contain urea formaldehyde or outgas toxic materials.

Window and door openings can be provided by some manufacturers.

Drywall can be provided already mounted by some manufacturers. Some panel manufacturers also offer exterior wall surfaces, typically T-1-11.

Sandwich panels (two facings) and unfaced panels are available. Unfaced panels typically have structural members (i.e. studs) in the insulation. Facings are added on-site.

Use panels that have structural grade adhesive linking the cores with the facings.

Panels can be used as infill in a post and beam structure.

2.0 Panel details

To groove or notch panels to fit together; a hot knife, hot wire, or router can be used.

Caulk guns are a necessity.

An oversized saw is useful for cutting panels.

If openings are not factory supplied, a chainsaw can be used.

Expect to use a large assortment of straps and reinforcing brackets.

While storing panels, protect them from rain and keep them ventilated (particularly in hot, sunny locations) by using “sleepers”, or spacers, between panels.

Stack panels so that the sequence of removal accommodates the order they need to be erected.

Examine panel details from the manufacturer in regards to installation; many variations exist. In connecting panels, choose systems that do not compromise the thermal qualities of the panel by creating a thermal bridge or “short circuit”.

There should be a gap between panel sections so facings have room to expand.

When creating openings (i.e. windows), the foam must be cut back from the edge of the facings in order to infill with 2X material. With MEPS this is most quickly done with a router and a hot knife in the corners. This is a slow process with only a hot knife.

Wiring and plumbing chases are typically provided by the panel manufacturer at specified distances along the panel.

Structural Insulating Wall Panels (SIPs)

DEFINITION
CONSIDERATIONS
COMMERCIAL STATUS
IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
GUIDELINES

CSI NUMBER:

07410 Preformed Wall & Roof Panels

DEFINITION

Structural panels are typically two outer layers of structural sheathing material separated by an insulated core. They are made in different sizes according to the job’s requirements.

CONSIDERATIONS:

	Commercial Status			Implementation Issues
	T E C H N O L O G Y	S U P P L I E R S	C O S T	F I N A N C I N G	A C C E P T A N C E	R E G U L A T O R Y
Structural Wall

	Satisfactory
	Satisfactory in most conditions
	Satisfactory in Limited Conditions
	Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS

Technology:

Many manufacturers make structural panels. Quality control is inconsistent in the industry and product development is continuing.

SUPPLIERS:

Available locally and regionally.

COST:

$1.75 to $2.75 per square foot or higher (material only). This can be slightly higher than conventional framing costs.

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES

FINANCING:

Available if panels are code compliant.

PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:

Good

REGULATORY:

Not all panels have been tested for code compliance. Make certain that the panel as a whole is code compliant, not just the components of the panel. This information is provided by the manufacturer.

GUIDELINES

1.0 Ordering panels

Specify MEPS with borate treatment for insulation or other non ozone-depleting insulation.

Use waferboard or OSB facings. These materials do not contain urea formaldehyde or outgas toxic materials.

Window and door openings can be provided by some manufacturers.

Drywall can be provided already mounted by some manufacturers. Some panel manufacturers also offer exterior wall surfaces, typically T-1-11.

Sandwich panels (two facings) and unfaced panels are available. Unfaced panels typically have structural members (i.e. studs) in the insulation. Facings are added on-site.

Use panels that have structural grade adhesive linking the cores with the facings.

Panels can be used as infill in a post and beam structure.

2.0 Panel details

To groove or notch panels to fit together; a hot knife, hot wire, or router can be used.

Caulk guns are a necessity.

An oversized saw is useful for cutting panels.

If openings are not factory supplied, a chainsaw can be used.

Expect to use a large assortment of straps and reinforcing brackets.

While storing panels, protect them from rain and keep them ventilated (particularly in hot, sunny locations) by using “sleepers”, or spacers, between panels.

Stack panels so that the sequence of removal accommodates the order they need to be erected.

There should be a gap between panel sections so facings have room to expand.

Wiring and plumbing chases are typically provided by the panel manufacturer at specified distances along the panel.

Earth Materials

DEFINITION
CONSIDERATIONS
COMMERCIAL STATUS
IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
GUIDELINES

CSI Numbers

025 128 to 025 166
042 050 to 042 100
042 500 to 042 550
042 900
044 050 to 044 700

DEFINITIONS:

The type of materials available locally will of course vary depending upon the conditions in the area of the building site.

In many areas, indigenous stone is available from the local region, such as limestone, marble, granite, and sandstone. It mat be cut in quarries or removed from the surface of the ground (flag and fieldstone). Ideally, stone from the building site can be utilized. Depending on the stone type, it can be used for structural block, facing block, pavers, and crushed stone.

Most brick plants are located near the clay source they use to make brick. Bricks are molded and baked blocks of clay. Brick products come in many forms, including structural brick, face brick, roof tile, structural tile, paving brick, and floor tile.

Caliche is a soft limestone material which is mined from areas with calcium-carbonate soils and limestone bedrock. It is best known as a road bed material, but it can be processed into an unfired building block, stabilized with an additive such as cement. Other earth materials include soil blocks typically stabilized with a cement additive and produced with forms or compression.

Rammed Earth consists of walls made from moist, sandy soil, or stabilized soil, which is tamped into form work. Walls are a minimum of 12″ thick. Soils should contain about 30% clay and 70% sand.

CONSIDERATIONS:

The use of locally available and indigenous earth materials has several advantages in terms of sustainability. They are:

Reduction of energy costs related to transportation.
Reduction of material costs due to reduced transportation costs, especially for well-established industries.
Support of local businesses and resource bases.

Care must be taken to ensure that non-renewable earth materials are not over-extracted. Ecological balance within the region needs to be maintained while efficiently utilizing its resources. Many local suppliers carry materials that have been shipped in from out of the area, so it is important to ask for locally produced/quarried materials.

Both brick and stone materials are aesthetically pleasing, durable, and low maintenance. Exterior walls weather well, eliminating the need for constant refinishing and sealing. Interior use of brick and stone can also provide excellent thermal mass, or be used to provide radiant heat. Some stone and brick makes an ideal flooring or exterior paving material, cool in summer and possessing good thermal properties for passive solar heating. Caliche block has been produced for applications similar to stone and brick mentioned above. Caliche or earth material block has special structural and finishing characteristics.

Rammed earth is more often considered for use in walls, although it can also be used for floors. Rammed earth and caliche block can be used for structural walls, and offer great potential as low-cost material alternatives with low embodied energy. In addition, such materials are fireproof.

Caliche block and rammed earth can be produced on-site. It is very important to have soils tested for construction material use. Some soils, such as highly expansive or bentonite soils, are not suitable for structural use. Testing labs are available in most areas to determine material suitability for structural use and meeting codes.

Soils for traditional adobe construction are not found in some areas, but other soils for earth building options are available. Many areas have a high percentage of soils suitable for ramming (approximately 19,610 acres in the Austin, TX area, according to the US. Department of Agriculture). Caliche is also abundant in many areas (covering 14 % of the Austin geographic area, for instance) and is readily available locally.

	Commercial Status			Implementation Issues
	T E C H N O L O G Y	S U P P L I E R S	C O S T	F I N A N C I N G	A C C E P T A N C E	R E G U L A T O R Y
Stone
Brick
Caliche
	FOUNDATION
Stone
Brick
Caliche
	FLOOR
Stone
Brick
Caliche
	WALL (A)
Stone
Brick
Rammed Earth
	WALL (B)

Legend
	Satisfactory
	Satisfactory in most conditions
	Satisfactory in Limited Conditions
	Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS

TECHNOLOGY:

Stone cutting, brick production and masonry techniques are mature technologies. Rammed earth and caliche block construction are not well known by most builders and architects today, although there are some architects and builders who are experienced with these materials.

SUPPLIERS:

There are numerous suppliers of indigenous stone and local brick in many regions. Caliche block and rammed earth are not available commercially, but can be created on site. There are contractors who can provide machinery for manufacturing compressed soil block, and in some places such block is commercially available.

COST:

Brick: approximately $2.00 per square foot (4 inch material) and up depending on thickness. Stone: $4.00 to $15.00 per square foot (material) depending on type. Compressed soil block: approximately $1.80 per square foot (9 inches thick). Earth block made from labor intensive methods cost significantly less.

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES

FINANCING:

Stone and brick materials do not pose a problem for lending institutions, and are often valued positively for increased property value and fire rating. Rammed earth, compressed soil block, and caliche block may pose problems for traditional financing. Proper testing and building code compliance will assist lenders in accepting their products.

PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:

Stone and brick construction are considered desirable, although their use for interior thermal mass is not common in many areas. Rammed earth and caliche block are little known, and may not currently receive wide public acceptance.

REGULATORY:

In structural applications, materials must be rated for appropriate load requirements. Unfired caliche blocks can easily pass Unified Building Code standards for compression with an average of 960 p.s.i. Rammed earth and caliche block construction will require a building code review if used structurally. Regulatory acceptance will be based on precedents for the material as accepted in other jurisdictions and/or upon independent tests that demonstrate methods and performance required by code for masonry materials are satisfied.

GUIDELINES

1.0 Stone

Stone construction practices are fairly standard. We do not recommend any stone applications that would require non-traditional methods. Attention needs to be paid to the load capacity of foundations and footings due to the excessive weight of the material. Veneers need non-combustible support such as concrete grade beams or footings. Pay particular attention to grade beams when designing interior stone wall applications. Anchoring of veneers must follow Uniform Building Code (UBC) guidelines.

1.2 Indigenous Stone Description

Limestone: A rock that is formed chiefly by the accumulation of organic remains (shells or coral), consist mainly of calcium carbonate.
Marble: Crystallized limestone, ranges from granular to compact in texture.
Granite: A very hard igneous rock formation of visibly crystalline texture formed essentially of quartz and orthoclase or microcline.
Sandstone: A sedimentary rock consisting usually of quartz sand combined with some binding elements such as silica or calcium carbonate.
Flagstone: A hard, evenly stratified stone that splits into flat pieces suitable for paving.
Fieldstone: Stone in unaltered form as taken from the field.

2.0 Brick

The same guidelines in Section 1.0 above also apply to brick masonry.

Brick has value as a recyclable material. Used brick, available through local salvage companies, is often desired for its weathered, antique appearance. In addition, brick seconds or brick that is damaged can be crushed and recycled and either returned to the manufacturing process to make more brick, or used as a landscaping material in its crushed form.

Some American brick manufacturers are making brick with sewage sludge. Sludge material is mixed with clay normally used in the manufacturing process. The resulting brick is equally attractive and strong. Another alternative material for brick production is petroleum contaminated soils. Such soils, when combined with clay and fired at very high temperatures, yield brick which is free from hydrocarbon contamination.

3.0 Soils for Rammed Earth, Caliche Block, and Soil Material Construction

Soils that qualify for both Compressed Earth Block and Rammed Earth are common in many areas. Consider that most of the continents are granitic and decomposed granite is normally perfect having the ratios of feldspars to quartz that are appropriate for compaction. Basaltic soils are a little more difficult and many times require additional clay added. The basic formula is 30% clay and the balance loam and small aggregate. Caliche (which is usually a misnomer for decomposed limestone soils) is the common subsoil of the alluvial plain which dominates the south Texas landscape, much of the Midwest and most of the deep south as well as most of the Caribbean . In The Dominican Republic it is named for the coral reefs that underly the island and is somewhat compactable depending on the area. The use of decomposed limestone can be problematic unless modified with either the addition of clay, portland cement or lime if necessary.

Soils that are bentonitic or highly expansive are normally unsuitable for earth construction without modification. The shrink and swell capacity of these soils, related to their clay content can cause the block to be highly susceptible to moisture, even high humidity, however the acid test is how the clays actually perform under compaction and even poor performance can be offset by stabilization. Soil cracking after rainfall may indicate expansive soil. Soil must be tested to determine its suitability. The ideal is a block or wall that looks pretty and has a lot of strength but even ugly block and marginal soils can be used to build a structure that will last for centuries.

Desirable qualities for soil construction materials include:

Strength
Low Moisture Absorption
Limited Shrink/Swell Reaction
High Resistance to Erosion and Chemical Attack
Availability

3.1 Soil Testing

Soil testing techniques vary, and include laboratory as well as field testing. Testing is done in three phases: laboratory testing, construction mix testing, and quality control testing. Laboratory testing should always be done early in the design process, using representative samples of soil intended for use. (See Resources section for laboratories.) Engineering properties for which soils are tested include permeability, stability, plasticity and cohesion, compactibility, durability, and abrasiveness. Shrinkage, swelling and compressive strength are important aspects of soil suitability.

Again, it is possible to alter soils to make them suitable for construction by stabilizing them. Stabilizing soil helps to inhibit the shrink and swell potential, and aids in the binding of soil components. Soil can be stabilized through chemical or mechanical means or both. For information on mechanical methods, see Section 5.0 on rammed earth.

3.2 Chemical Soil Stabilization

Lime, portland cement, and other pozzolans (high silica volcanic ash, rice hull ash, etc) can be used as chemical additives. Lime is most effective on clay soils, and can be used in combination with portland cement and pozzolan. Hydrated lime, as opposed to quick lime, should be used. Lime is inexpensive, but care must be taken to protect workers from breathing in lime dust. Cement is relatively inexpensive, but requires large energy inputs in its production process and puts approximately an equal weight of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. However, cement produces the strongest block and will substitute for clay poor soils where lime will not and the normal usage of between 5 and 10% minimizes the embodied energy especially when compared to concrete and lumber products * . Pozzolan exists in plentiful supply in many areas, and is sometimes readily available commercially in the form of coal fly ash .

The Center for Maximum Potential Building Systems (CMPBS) in Austin, Tx is experimenting with the use of pozzolan as an additive and offers considerable expertise in earth materials use. See the Resources section.

3.3 Strength of tested earth and caliche block

Unfired Compressed Earth Block with addition of 5-10% cement can easily pass the Uniform Building Code standards for compression with an average of 960 psi.

Rammed earth walls have been tested with a compressive strength of 30 to 90 psi immediately after forming. Ultimate compressive strength should reach 450-800 psi. If cement is added, compressive strength will increase.

The Uniform Building Code for single and two story buildings requires block bearing capacity of 300 psi bearing strength. Blocks manufactured with a hydraulic press have been tested with a bearing capacity immediately after production of 700 psi. Such soil block continues to cure, until blocks reach a typical bearing capacity of 1000 psi., far exceeding requirements of the Uniform Building Code and HUD standards. Cement can be added to the soil block mixture to reach a bearing capacity of 2500-3900 psi.

3.4 Soil Handling

The use of earth as building materials is inexpensive for materials costs, but emphasizes labor in construction methods. The right equipment and coordinated labor are important in the soil material construction process. Even a small structure may require at least 15 tons of earth. This material must be moved and handled at least twice. A front end loader, skidsteer or tractor equipped with a shovel or back hoe will be necessary for on-site extraction of soil materials as well as processing the soil and loading the machinery. A large flat area with good drainage is necessary for handling and processing the materials as well as making the blocks. The building footprint should also be accessible by truck for rammed earth construction.

4.0 Caliche and Soil Block Construction

4.1 Materials

Caliche is used in many areas as a road base material and in the production of cement and lime. Although not commonly used as a building material, there are historical as well as current examples of caliche for construction. For an in-depth treatment of the subject, see The Caliche Report (see Resources). Caliche occurs in abundance in the Austin area and may be possible to get from the construction site. However, if this is not possible, caliche may be purchased from area suppliers. Be sure to test the source. The use of soil as the basic block material is also possible, but will have slightly different stabilization demands.

Subsoils are the basics of Earth Block Construction. With a clay content of plus or minus 30% and a water content of 6% (equivalent to soil that has received an inch of rain a week previous. No straw, roots, twigs, leaves, etc.

4.2 Block Production Methods

A backhoe and/or a front end loader will be needed to dig the soil on-site or handle soils imported. Soils obtained from the site may need to be dried and screened prior to mixing. Soils should be tested to prove their compactability and to determine any needed additions such as sand or clay. The next step of hydrating and mixing has traditionally been the largest labor and time investment being done either by hand or with a front end loader. The use of concrete and stucco mixers have proven ineffectual for large projects such as a home, however there are earth mixing or blending machinery available that are especially cost effective for adding portland cement or lime and for adding water in dry areas.

Sun Dried Adobe

Molding techniques may be in the form of monolithic walls (See Rammed Earth ) or molded into blocks or bricks. For the latter, the mix is poured into molds, or pressure molded using special machinery. These methods provide for a variety of standard and custom size and shapes of block. With the hand mold technique, the prepared mix is poured into damp or oiled molds, spread evenly, and the molds are shaken slightly to ensure even filling of the forms. The blocks are then removed and allowed to cure before stacking.
Air curing must occur for 10-14 days before the block can be used in construction. Protection from direct sunlight for 5 days and protection from rain throughout the curing process are important. Drying bricks may be temporarily covered with tarps or plastic sheeting, but these must be removed for curing to continue. Once bricks are sufficiently cured, they can be set on end to continue drying.
With a wheelbarrow and gang forms, a crew of two can produce 300 to 400 bricks per day. With the addition of a plaster mixer and gang forms for 500 bricks, this production can be doubled. The addition of a front end loader with a driver will additionally increase production.

Compressed Earth Block

Compressed earth or soil block can be manufactured on site with a variety of block-making machines, including hydraulic presses, mechanical presses, and various combinations. Some mechanical presses are small enough to be operated by hand (Cinva-Ram, for instance). With a mobile industrial block machine powered by a diesel engine as many as 800 blocks can be produced per hour. Compressed soil blocks can be used immmediately. They continue to cure and gain strength after they are installed. When green (before they are cured), they can be readily shaped or nailed into with hand tools.
Compressed Earth Block come in two basic types, The vertical press where the block are normally 10″ x 14″ (there are many variations) that are fixed with the height of the block nominally 3″ which is variable due to the variability of the soil. These block are treated like Adobe in that they need to be mortared and cut to fit. The Horizontal Press are of a fixed dimension normally 4″ x 14″(again there are variations) with a length of the block variable from 2″ to 12″ depending on the machine. These blocks do not require mortar and can be dry stacked with ease by basic skilled workers, the block can also be custom sized to minimize cutting for electrical, plumbing and wall changes.

4.3 Mortaring

Mortar for blocks must be applied to the entire surface of the block, as opposed to ribbon mortar beds often used with conventional brick. Full surface mortaring allows for maximum compressive strength. The same soil used in block making, mixed with water to form a slurry, is usually used as a mortar for binding blocks together into floors and walls. Cement can be added to the mortar mix, but this increases the cost. The main advantage of cement mortar is stabilization.

4.4 Design Methods

Block size can be varied easily to accommodate a variety of designs. Walls can be sculptured, rounded, or formed into keystone arches to create custom effects. Relatively unskilled labor can be utilized in construction with compressed earth block.

Design of structural walls using any soil material block must take into account wall height and thickness, size of block, mass value * , and the desired style and finish. Wall height-to-thickness ratio must be adequate for stability * .

Because thermal mass equates to insulation in soil block a minimum of 12 inches is needed for a comfortable abode.

Earth block structures need not have the “pueblo” style if this is not desired. In fact a gable or hip roof can protect the home better while offering solar protection from western exposures. A bond or collar beam is necessary if the roof is supported by the walls. This will serve to spread the loads over the entire wall, and stabilize the tops of the walls from horizontal movement. (See code)

Plasters

Soil blocks are typically stuccoed or plastered to prevent them from getting wet, however, any veneer or siding can be used on Pressed Earth Block as they can hold a nail or staple. Interior finishes are normally plaster (structolite) or earth plasters that are simple to apply and maintain. Petroleum based finishes do not work well with unstabilized earth block and cement plasters do not stick to asphalt stabilized adobe. A common mix for a stabilized interior mud plaster is 5% portland cement to 30% minimum clay fine screened with window screen. Exterior mud plaster will need 6 to 10% portland cement with 30% minimum clay and 1/8″ screen.
Fully stabilized structures do not require any exterior finish unless desired for aesthetics.

5.0 Rammed Earth Construction

Rammed earth, an ancient building technique, may have originally been developed in climates where humidity and rainfall did not permit the production of soil block. For soil block to cure uncovered, there must be at least 10 rain-free days. Soil mixtures for rammed earth are similar to those for soil block. Soils with high clay content may be more suitable for ramming, as they tend to crack in blocks when curing.

5.1 Preparation and Transport of Soil

Rammed earth soil mixes must be carefully prepared by screening, pulverizing, and mixing. Pulverizing is important to ensure a uniform mix and to break up any clumps.

Transporting the soil mix to the forms is a demanding tasks. Large quantities of soil must be moved and transported vertically for placement in the forms. This process is not the same as pouring concrete, because the material is not liquid. Traditionally, workers passed baskets or buckets of earth up to where it was needed. Hoists can also be used effectively for this task.

5.2 Form work

Form work for rammed earth must be stable and well-built in order to resist pressure and vibration resulting from ramming. Small, simply designed forms that are easy to manage are most effective. Ease of assembly and dismantling should be considered when designing forms. A variety of materials can be used for forms, including wood, aluminum, steel, or glass fiber.

Systems for keeping form work in position vary. Small clamps adapted from concrete form work techniques work well, although small holes are left when the clamps are removed. Other methods include locking hydraulic jacks, or form work built on posts. For more discussion of form work design, organization and moving, see the Earth Construction Primer, and Adobe and Rammed Earth Buildings listed in Resources.

5.3 The Ramming Process

Once a soil “lift” of 6 to 8 inches in thickness is in place, the soil is rammed. Ramming can be accomplished manually or mechanically. Manual ramming is an ancient technique using a large, specially shaped tool with a long handle called a rammer. Rammers weigh around 18 pounds, and have heads of wood or metal. Differently shaped heads are designed to perform ramming for various form shapes, especially for corners.

Mechanical impact ramming uses pneumatic ramming machines. Only rammers specifically designed for soil are effective (rammers which are too powerful or too heavy will not work). Such equipment is quite expensive, but impact ramming is highly effective, and if the soil mixture is good, creates high quality rammed earth. Rammed earth will begin to cure immediately, and can take from several months to several years, depending on weather and humidity to complete the process.

5.4 Design Methods

Rammed earth walls have low tensile strength, and should be reinforced by providing a bond or collar beam. Beams can be constructed of concrete, wood or steel. Vertical reinforcing may also be done, and may be required by some building officials.

All openings in rammed earth walls, such as windows and doors, must have lintels to span the opening width. Water flow and moisture control is critical to protect structural walls. Special detailing to accommodate manufactured windows may be necessary to accommodate wall thickness. All openings for doors and windows will require a frame. Wood, as opposed to metal, is recommended due to the corrosive action of moisture from the soil material. Lintels can be concrete, stone or wood. Careful attention to both roof and opening details is necessary to protect the structure from water damage.

Foundations required by most codes are concrete reinforced with steel. Soil block material may be used as a filler material between piers of a reinforced concrete pier and beam foundation. Historically, many structures built with earth materials had no foundation, or used sand and gravel foundations. The latter are excavated trenches filled with two parts sand to three parts gravel. Trench bottoms should be graded to provide positive drainage. Soil material block should not be used in below grade walls unless supported on both sides. Natural moisture from the ground may infiltrate the block, resulting in reduced compressive strength.

6.0 Soil Materials Flooring

Earth floors are most often used in outbuildings and sheds, but if properly installed, can also be used in interior spaces. For interior use, earth floors must be properly insulated and moisture sealed. Earth floors must be protected from capillary action of water by sealing with a water tight membrane underlayment.

Construction preparation includes removal of any vegetation under the floor area followed by ramming of the area. The ground must be dry before installation of the floor. After the surface is moisture-proofed, a foundation of stone, gravel or sand is installed, 20 to 25 cm. deep. Then, an insulating layer is installed, such as a straw clay mixture.

An appropriate soil stabilized mixture for the load-bearing layer of the floor is then installed. The load bearing layer should be 4 cm. thick. The floor can be finished with a thin layer of cement grout mixed with sand. Sawdust can also be .i.concrete: rammed earth and, added as a filler, in proportion of one part sawdust, one part sand, and one part cement. Sawdust should be treated first with lime and dried. The final stage of floor finishing is waxing and/or coloring.

Other construction options include monolithic earth floors which are poured in layers within guide forms. Each layer must have curing cracks filled, be treated with a mixture of linseed oil and turpentine, and allowed to dry for a week before the next layer is applied. The final floor surface can be waxed and polished.

Soil material flooring can also be installed using stabilized bricks or tiles. Such materials should be from 6 to 9 cm thick, and can be set on a 2 cm layer of mortar. If soil is not used for flooring, concrete or masonry are other options. Tile and wood floors are possible.

7.0 Soil Material Durability and Finishes

Soil materials in construction are often believed to be vulnerable to weather. This is true only of the outer, or finished surfaces. If proper roof and structural design is done, rainfall or severe weather will not affect the structural properties of the wall or the interior wall. Only the cosmetic surface of the earth material will be affected. Normally, the clay content of the material resists extensive wetting.

Structures constructed of soil materials are durable, and are said to last more than fifty years. The US. government has documented over 350,000 currently existing houses and commercial structures of earthen construction in the US. Many of these have been in existence with minimal maintenance for the past 100 years. Some were built as long ago as the 1600’s.

Several options are available for finishing soil based construction materials. Two basic approaches exist: waterproof or breathable finishes. Waterproof finishes such as cement stucco are more permanent and more expensive initially. Such finishes will contain and trap moisture, which may be problematic; permeable finishes such as mud plaster are less expensive, less durable and will allow the wall to absorb and give off airborne moisture.

Investigate qualities and claims of products before purchasing. If possible, test wall finishes before purchasing large quantities of materials.

7.1 Plaster

Mud plaster is usually applied in two coats for both exterior and interior surfaces. The addition of straw is recommended in the mud plaster mix. This will help to reinforce the plaster, allowing for thicker coats and surface leveling. In addition, this will decrease the tendency for cracking of the plaster as it dries. High clay content soils in mud plaster may tend to result in a poor bond of the plaster to the wall.

The finish coat is made of screened, fine materials. This layer is applied as thinly as possible while achieving full coverage. Plaster can be troweled or floated to achieve a variety of textures, and reapplied as many times as necessary to achieve the desired affect or to make repairs. When dry, the mud plaster surface will take a hard, firm set similar in hardness and texture to conventional plaster.

The same stabilizers used in the preparation of the structural soil mix may be used to stabilize the plaster. Thorough mixing of the plaster mix is necessary to avoid an uneven finish.

7.2 Stucco

Traditional cement stucco may be used on walls for a low-maintenance finish. While this may seem desirable, cement stucco also has disadvantages in that it has a different expansion coefficient than the wall material. This may eventually lead to separation from the wall, and may conceal structural erosion problems which may result from leaky pipes or roofs. Stucco netting is recommended to accommodate any settling and cracking of the stucco. Exterior stucco walls should not be painted with traditional exterior paints, which will increase moisture impermeability. A final colored coat of stucco or texture finishes may be used decoratively. For more information on both interior and exterior cement stucco preparation and application, see Adobe and Rammed Earth Buildings (Resources section).

7.3 Interior Walls

Interior earth walls may be painted more successfully, and may also be treated with sealing compounds to reduce the tendency for dust to develop and rub off on furniture and clothing. Oil-based varnishes and resinous liquids can be diluted for such use. If paint is to be used, a sealing or sizing coat should be applied first. Whitewash can be prepared with equal parts of lime and white cement mixed with water. Natural earth pigments may be added to this.

In addition to stucco or plaster, interior walls may also be treated with a variety of veneers including gypsum wall board or other interior veneers.

8.0 Soil Material and Energy

8.1 Thermal Characteristics

Earth material walls are not especially good insulators. ASHRAE laboratory tests give a 10 inch thick adobe wall with 3/4 inch of stucco on the exterior and 1/2 inch of gypsum plaster on the interior an R-value of 3.8. A 14 inch wall with similar construction is assigned an R value of 4.9. In spite of these fairly low values in laboratory conditions, earth materials do have good thermal mass characteristics. Wall thickness of from 12 to 14 inches are generally considered optimum for thermal mass performance.

Double wall construction can greatly enhance insulation value. Applied insulation can be in the form of rigid material or spray on insulation. Spray on insulation must be covered with stucco to protect it. Although the addition of insulation will increase construction costs, the resulting energy savings will offset initial costs. Some dynamic testing of high mass walls have indicated better thermal performances than the calculated thermal values would indicate.

8.2 Embodied Energy

The following figures, adapted from Adobe and Rammed Earth Buildings , reflect the embodied energy in BTU’s required for the production and use of various materials. Soil block has a much lower embodied energy than many traditional materials.

Portland Cement	94 lb sack	381,624 BTU
Lime, hydrated	100 lb sack	440,619 BTU
Common brick	1 block	13,570 BTU
Concrete block	1 block	29,018 BTU
Earth (Adobe) block (mechanized production)	1 block (10X4X14)	2,500 BTU

Roofing

DEFINITION
CONSIDERATIONS
COMMERCIAL STATUS
IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
GUIDELINES

CSI Numbers

07300 Shingles & Roofing Tile
07410 Preformed Roof Panels
07500 Membrane Roofing
07610 Sheet Metal Roofing
07620 Flashing & Trim
07316 Metal Shingles
07320 Roofing Tiles
07321 Clay Roofing Tiles
07322 Concrete Roofing Tiles

DEFINITION

This section deals with roof covering materials such as shingles, tile, and roof panels.

CONSIDERATIONS:

In selecting material for roof covering one should take into account its weight (heavier material requires larger support members), its durability (e.g. how well can it tolerate high and low temperatures and for how long), its effect on water falling on the roof if the water is being captured (for example, will gravel from shingles build up sediment in a cistern or do roof materials leach into the water?), the heat-holding qualities of the roof material (does it heat up and stay hot into the night?), as well as cost, fire rating, maintainability, and installation characteristics.

Slate, clay, and cementitious roof materials offer excellent durability but are heavy. Fiber-cement composite roof materials are somewhat lighter and use fiber materials resourcefully. Some use waste paper as well as wood fiber. Many have 60 year warranties.

Metal roof materials, steel and aluminum contain high percentages of recycled content, up to 100% in many aluminum products. An additional advantage is that these materials are easily recycled in their post-use as well as lightweight and durable.

Asphalt shingles use recycled, mixed paper in their base and some use reclaimed minerals in the surface aggregate. This type of material does not last as long as the others mentioned above. Recycled plastic roof materials are starting to be introduced as a lightweight option.

	Commercial Status			Implementation Issues
	T E C H N O L O G Y	S U P P L I E R S	C O S T	F I N A N C I N G	A C C E P T A N C E	R E G U L A T O R Y
Clay/Cemetitious
30-50 Year Material
Recycled Content

	Satisfactory
	Satisfactory in most conditions
	Satisfactory in Limited Conditions
	Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS

TECHNOLOGY:

Well-developed; more recycled-content roofing materials can be anticipated.

SUPPLIERS:

Adequate; fiber-cement roof materials are not readily available.

Clay roof materials are costly; metal roof materials are competitive with the more common asphalt shingles.

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES

FINANCING:

Available.

PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:

Most people prefer shingle, tile, or slate roof materials; metal shingles are available as an option to metal sheet materials.

REGULATORY:

Roofing materials will meet standards established by the appropriate testing groups and must be installed according to the manufacturers instructions.

GUIDELINES

1.0 Fiber-cement composite slates and shakes

Weigh between 325 and 500 pounds per square.

Use standard roof structures.

Long-lasting (up to 60-year warrantees, fireproof).

Typically have Class A fire rating.

2.0 Organic asphalt shingles

Up to 25% recycled content by some companies.

Life of 20-30 years.

Not easily recycled at end of useful life.

Weigh approximately 230 pounds per square.

3.0 Metal roofing products

Can be made to give shingle appearance

Most metal roofing, including standing-seam, contains recycled metal.

Metal roofing used primarily for agricultural buildings is lower in cost, but requires premium metal coatings, factory-finished panels, or watertight construction detailing when used for housing.

3.1 Metal coatings

Zinc (galvanized) coatings oxidize to protect the steel. Protection is lost when the oxidation process uses up the zinc, and the steel underneath can rust. On low-sloped roofs in wet climates, coating loss and rust can show up in five years.

Aluminum coatings are superior to zinc, carrying warranties up to twenty years. They are inert, and do not degrade over time.

Aluminum-zinc alloys, or Galvalume, will outperform aluminized coatings and exceed twenty-year warrantees.

3.2 Painted metal

Only use factory applied paint.

Polyester resin finishes offer least durability. Fading will occur in 5 to 7 years.

Silicone modified polyester finishes are superior (the more silicone, the better the performance). Twenty year warranties are available.

Fluorpolymer resins provide a state of the art finish. Five paint companies produce this paint under the brand names of Duranar, Nubelar, Fluropon, Trinar, and Visulure.

Bare aluminized or Galvalume panel can last 40 years without maintenance and is a better choice than polyester resin finishes.

3.3 Panel thermal movement

Metal panels respond to temperature change by expanding and contracting. This causes the fastener hole size to increase, resulting in leaks.

Dark colors will experience the largest thermal movement.

Panels installed over purlins will not harm the roof system with thermal movement.

If installing over a solid deck, use Z-shaped metal sleepers over the decking. The sleepers will move with the panels and eliminate fatigue where the screws penetrate the panels (the screw hole will become elongated causing leaks) or the screws will lose grip on the decking. If possible, do not use solid decking with metal roof panels.

Solid aluminum panels have a higher coefficient of expansion than steel and will strain fasteners with the increased movement from temperature change.

3.4 Galvanic reactions

Protect metal panels on the anodic end of the galvanic scale from fasteners and flashings on the cathodic end to prevent corrosion.

Insulation

DEFINITION
CONSIDERATIONS
COMMERCIAL STATUS
IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
GUIDELINES

Cellulose Insulation
CFCs
Agricultural Fiber
Foam
Perlite
Rockwool
Spray foams (coming soon)
Sheep wool (coming soon)

CSI NUMBER

Division 7 – Thermal & Moisture Protection
07200 Insulation

DEFINITION:

There are several types of insulation addressed in this section that can be used in walls, floors, and ceilings.

Cellulose insulation is made from recycled newspaper and treated with fire retardants and insect protection. Borates, derived from the mineral Boron, are natural materials that can be used as fire retardants and insect repellents in cellulose insulation.

CFC and HCFC insulation refers to the blowing agents that contain chlorofluorocarbons used in making many rigid insulating sheathing products. Extruded polystyrene and polyisocyanurate foam insulation boards are currently made with CFC or HCFC blowing agents.

Agricultural fiber insulation is available in the form of cotton insulation made with mill waste, low grade, and recycled cotton. It is treated with a non-toxic fire retardant and comes in batts comparable to fiberglass insulation batts.

Cementitious foam insulation is made from magnesium from sea water and blown in place with air.

Perlite insulation is made from a natural occurring volcanic mineral and is often used as loose fill insulation in concrete block cavities.

CONSIDERATIONS:

Insulation materials play a primary role in achieving high energy efficiencies in buildings. There has been concern over the health impacts of the material constituents of insulation ever since the problems associated with asbestos became apparent, followed by the banning of urea formaldehyde based insulation. Some health concerns have spread to potential inhalation of fiberglass and cellulose insulation fibers and dust. Always wear a proper dust mask when working with these materials.

Cellulose insulation uses recycled newsprint that contains printers inks which can possibly outgas formaldehyde into a home. If there is any outgassing from inks, it should fall well below levels irritating most persons. However, an environmentally-sensitive person should be careful in selecting cellulose and install a vapor retarder between the insulation and the living space. (Note that the vapor retarder can exacerbate mildew problems if humidity levels in the house are high.)

There are also chemical additives often added to treat cellulose that are not thoroughly understood from an indoor air quality standpoint. Cellulose insulation that is treated with borates is preferred. Cellulose insulation can be bound together as a wet spray and installed in open wall cavities where it effectively seals the entire wall.

Rigid board insulations employed as sheathing on homes have played an important role in achieving high R-values. The use of CFCs in many of these materials has caused increased release of chlorine molecules into the atmosphere contributing to ozone depletion. HCFCs outgas a lesser amount of chlorine molecules. However, the severity of the ozone depletion situation has led to the recommendation to avoid both types of insulation blowing agent. Alternatives in rigid board insulation are available that do not use CFCs. (See Engineered Sheet Products section.) Any rigid expanded polystyrene insulation does not have CFCs.

Cementitious foam insulation is available commercially. There are no installers of this type of insulation in some regions. It is also more costly where available. This type of insulation is considered the most benign from an indoor air quality standpoint. Use installers who have a track record and can provide references.

Perlite insulation is in a loose form suitable to fill the cavities in building block. Perlite can be bound into other materials and used in sheet form. It is commonly used in commercial roofing material and can be used as an aggregate in concrete. It is non-flammable, lightweight and chemically inert.

Not listed is the use of rockwool insulation. Rockwool is recycled steel slag (a landfill material). It is available as blow-on wall insulation (a starch binder is used) and as loose blow-in attic insulation. It offers very good energy performance, will not burn, and is chemically inert.

Spray-in-place foam insulations are a fairly new addition. They offer the advantage of acting as a vapor barrier, effectively disallowing the cracks and gaps which can occur with rigid board or batt insulation methods. Some are made in part with soy oil instead of the more common petroleum oil, but it’s important to note that even the products with the highest percentage of soy oil still contain a majority of petroleum, and that the soy oil likely comes from genetically engineered plants which may be a negative in the view of some people.

Commercial wool insulation is available in limited areas. Being made from a naturally produced fiber, sheep wool insulation typically requires less than 15% of the energy required to produce than glass fiber insulation. Wool is a sustainable and renewable resource, that has zero ozone depletion potential and at the end of it’s useful life can be remanufactured or biodegraded. Sheep wool insulation is safe and easy to handle and no protective clothing or special breathing apparatus is required to install it.

	Commercial Status			Implementation Issues
	T E C H N O L O G Y	S U P P L I E R S	C O S T	F I N A N C I N G	A C C E P T A N C E	R E G U L A T O R Y
Cellulose
CFC / HCFC
Cellulose w/ Borates
Agri. Fiber
Cementitious
Perlite

	Satisfactory
	Satisfactory in most conditions
	Satisfactory in Limited Conditions
	Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS

TECHNOLOGY:

Well-developed and changing. More recycled-content types are being developed. Cotton insulation is new.

SUPPLIERS:

Adequate for cellulose insulation; new suppliers for cotton insulation are currently being established. Cementitious foam requires trained installers. Perlite and rockwool are available. Spray foams are becoming more common.

COST: (varies by region)

Prices can vary according to installer.
Cellulose/cotton/fiberglass insulation: less than $.20 per square foot for R-19 uninstalled.
Wet blown cellulose insulation: 50% more installed.
Air Krete: $2.00 per square foot for 2√ó6 walls installed.
Perlite (as loose fill): $5.00 to $8.00 per 4 cubic feet.
Rockwool: $0.50 per square foot installed in 2 x 4 wall, comparable to cellulose in attic

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES

FINANCING:

Available.

PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:

The general public is mostly unaware that CFCs can exist in insulation. Cellulose insulation and spray foam is commonly accepted. Cotton insulation is attractive to environmentally-aware individuals and those doing their own insulating work as it will not cause skin irritation. Perlite insulation is relatively unknown to the general public. Cotton and perlite are not likely to be negatively perceived. Rockwool and sheep wool are relatively unknown as a modern insulation option.

REGULATORY:

Must meet flame spread and smoke density requirements, listed in Section R-217 of the CABO One and Two Family Dwelling Code.

GUIDELINES

1.0 Cellulose insulation

As a loose fill material applied in attics, install baffles to keep the material away from soffit vents. The baffles will also prevent wind from the soffit vents through blowing the insulation. Don‚Äôt cover recessed light fixtures unless the fixtures are certified to accept insulation.

Cellulose insulation can be effectively used in wall cavities in new construction. As a dry loose-fill wall insulation, it could settle.

Wet-blown insulation offers superior insulating qualities and can be trimmed by hand on walls before installing drywall. Moisture control is critical with wet-blown insulation as overly moist insulation requires a longer drying period before a wall can be closed up. Wet blown insulation offers excellent performance.

2.0 CFCs

CFCs or HCFCs are found in extruded polystyrene foam boards, isocyanurate foam boards, phenolic foam boards, and polyurethane blow-in insulation.

Expanded polystyrene rigid insulation at a higher density of 2 lb./ft3 (normal density is 1.0 lb./ft3) performs similarly to extruded polystyrene. Expanded polystyrene does not contain CFCs or HCFCs. It typically uses pentane as a blowing agent and has some recycled content.

(See the Engineered Sheet Materials section for alternative insulating sheathing materials.)

3.0 Agricultural fiber

Cotton insulation comes in batts and is installed in the same manner as fiberglass batts. The material should not be compressed when installed in order to retain its full insulating qualities.

It is treated with borates as fire retardant.

4.0 Cementitious foam

This insulation is fire proof, insect proof, and non-toxic.

Trained installers must be used. The material expands as it sets and can crack walls if installed incorrectly.

The material contains a lot of water and will need a drying period before a wall can be closed up.

The material is friable (easily crumbled) when dry.

5.0 Perlite

Can be used in concrete to make an insulating lighter weight concrete.

Predominantly used as a pour-in loose-fill in cores of concrete block.

5.1 Loose fill installation location and method

Must be installed in sealed spaces:

Cores of exterior (and interior) hollow core block;

Cavity between exterior (and interior) masonry walls;

Between exterior masonry walls and interior furring.

Perlite will pour easily and quickly directly into cavities or into hoppers slid along the wall. It will fill all voids and will not settle.

6.0 Rockwool

Rockwool is manufactured in Texas, Washington,North Carolina and Indiana.

It is made comprised of steel slag ( over 75%) with some basalt rock ( 25% or less). In some plants the recycled steel slag makes up almost 100% of the content.

Blow-on application will seal wall cavities similarly to wet-blown cellulose offering superior insulating service compared to batts.

It is installed in attics in a loose fill blown form that goes in at a rate of 1.4-1.8 pcf , while the side wall spray is installed at a rate of 4-5pcf. With theses densities the slag wool has better STC ratings and R ratings when compared in exact designs with the otther cellulose and fiber insulation products.

Weighs more than fiberglass (rockwool is 1.2 pounds per square foot for R-30 versus 0.5 pounds for fiberglass). It is less likely to become airborne.

Rockwool is the only insulation that will stop fire.

Windows and Doors

DEFINITION
CONSIDERATIONS
COMMERCIAL STATUS
IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES

Windows

Doors

CSI Numbers

Division 8 – Doors & Windows

DEFINITION:

Composite materials use stable, durable materials, some of which are byproducts. Fingerjointed windows use small pieces of wood reducing the impact on large clear grained wood sources. Recycled windows can mean reuse of salvaged windows or windows of recycled content.

Recycled/reconstituted doors are typically molded hardboard materials. Domestic hardwood veneers use a stable resource and assist our national economy. Some hardwood veneers such as luaun are from tropical mahogany trees. Domestic hardwood panel doors use wood types which are a stable resource in our economy. The panel style reduces the need for potentially harmful adhesives. Recycled doors are reused doors salvaged from earlier projects.

CONSIDERATIONS:

Windows and doors are currently highly engineered in order to optimize energy performances. Windows and doors have significant roles in the energy profile of a home. Frame material issues, although important as part of an overall environmentally responsible approach, play only a small role due to their small size/area. Performance of these products is important in durability and maintenance, as well as energy.

Modern composite products are easy to care for, and their thermal performance is superior to wood. One door manufacturer has introduced recycled-content jambs using recycled plastic and cedar byproducts. Molded hardboard doors have become the preferred interior door and are a good use of lumber mill waste shavings.

The reuse of existing materials is the most resourceful building material option. Make certain that quality and durability are not compromised.

Make certain seals and gaskets are in good condition when selecting recycled windows.

Any windows using fingerjointed materials will need to be painted for aesthetic reasons. It is best to have the windows factory primed where the painting is done in controlled conditions.

	Commercial Status			Implementation Issues
	T E C H N O L O G Y	S U P P L I E R S	C O S T	F I N A N C I N G	A C C E P T A N C E	R E G U L A T O R Y
Composite
Fingerjointed
Recycled
Recycled/ Reconstituted
Domestic Hardwood Veneer
Domestic Hardwood Panel

	Satisfactory
	Satisfactory in most conditions
	Satisfactory in Limited Conditions
	Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS

TECHNOLOGY:

More composite window products can be expected soon. Important strides have been made in UV resistance. Other door and window products listed here use mature technologies.

SUPPLIERS:

Suppliers of recycled windows and doors can not guarantee that they have appropriate products for a specific project.

The range of composite window products is limited locally.

Hardwood veneer doors are less common than recycled/reconstituted-content doors and hardwood panel doors may have to be ordered.

COST:

Panel doors are costly. Recycled windows and doors may entail considerable labor expense to prepare for use.

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES

FINANCING:

Recycled materials (reused) may be questioned unless they are shown to be of high quality.

PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:

Awareness of composite products is not high. Once convinced of maintenance-free qualities and durability, buyers should find them attractive. Recycled (reused) materials must be high quality and/or of architectural significance to gain acceptance.

REGULATORY:

Windows must be tested and certified and have air infiltration qualities of less than 0.50 CFM per lineal foot of crack. New window suppliers will offer certified test data to satisfy these requirements. This information can not be provided for reused windows, thereby limiting the applicability of reused windows.

GUIDELINES

Standard practices pertain to installing the listed window and door options.

Windows

We all love lots of windows. We love the natural light, the views, and the fresh air we get from them. But nowadays there are so many kinds of windows available, it’s hard to make a choice. We want windows to be attractive, let in plenty of light, and be energy-efficient. We don’t want them to feel drafty or have condensation problems. And we want all this for an affordable price. Here are some questions commonly asked about windows which may help you make a smart choice.

Perhaps you live in an older house and often feel uncomfortable near the windows. Should you replace them or add storm windows? Replacing windows or adding storm windows is costly. Try these measures to improve comfort and reduce energy bills before you decide whether to purchase new windows. Caulk around all trim and stationary parts and weather-strip the moveable parts, to cut down on air leaks. Install insulated drapes or shades to reduce heat loss in winter, and install solar screens or awnings to reduce solar heat gain in summer. If you are having a problem with condensation on the inside of the glass in cold weather, try to reduce indoor sources of moisture. Install exhaust fans which vent to the outside in bathrooms, the laundry and kitchen.

Let’s say you’re building a new house and the price your builder quoted for double pane insulated windows is a lot higher than single pane. Are double pane windows worth the price?

A typical window is almost like a hole in the wall. Modern window technology combines many features that go a long way to overcome the “hole effect”, but at a price. If you know what a given feature can do for you, what it will cost you, and whether there is a cheaper measure to achieve the same result, then you can make an informed decision.

Most people get double pane windows because they think they will save them money on their heating and cooling bills. Yes, they will reduce heat loss, and therefore save on winter bills, but since we usually have mild winters in Central Texas, this potential for savings is small.

A standard double pane helps even less in summer. However, a double pane window with a special coating applied to it will greatly reduce heat gain from the hot summer sun. This coating is called low-e (short for emissivity). To work well in the south, it must be applied to the outside surface of the inside pane of glass. In the north the low-e coat is applied to the inside surface of the outside glass to keep heat inside. Be sure an uninformed salesperson doesn’t order the wrong kind! Double pane windows also reduce noise and the incidence of condensation. The seals on double pane windows have improved over the past few years, so failure of the seals is less likely. However, it does make sense to compare warranties carefully.

Besides checking the warranty, is there any other way you can compare one window brand with another? Yes. Look for the NFRC label. That stands for the National Fenestration Rating Council. (Fenestration is the architectural term for windows.) First, look at the U-Factor, which serves as a good measure of heat loss in winter. The lower the U-factor, the better. The NFRC rating considers the whole window as a unit, including glazing, the sealing method and the frame material. Next, look at the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient . In a hot climate, the lower the better. Finally, look at the Visible Transmittance. This number should be as high as possible. In summary, look for the best possible combination of numbers–the most light for the least solar gain and the least heat loss.

Don’t skimp on your window budget. A high quality window has so many benefits–lower energy bills, less maintenance, reduced fading of furniture and carpets, improved security, beauty and comfort–it pays to make a good window investment.

1.0 Windows

Windows are distinguished in two areas – glazing system and window style.

1.1 Glazing System

Single pane, double glazed, triple glazed, low-E, gas filled, etc. determine the R-value and light transmission characteristics of the window.

Glazing systems can be selected according to their placement and orientation of the house. For example, a west facing window that would experience heat gain in the summer could use a heat-rejecting glazing such as “southern” Low-E. The embodied energy in this glazing could be paid back quickly in cooling cost savings.

To decide whether a high R-value window is worth the added expense, conduct and compare heat and cooling load calculations of the building for the windows under consideration. The Energy Star Program can provide this analysis to enrolled building professionals of the Green Builder/Energy Star Programs.

1.2 Window style

Refers to double hung, casement, awning, etc. indicating the operating characteristics of the window.

Some window styles are more energy-efficient than others. For example, a casement window will close more tightly than a double hung or slider window. Check manufacturers data for infiltration ratings as well as R-value.

2.0 Doors

Interior doors should have adequate undercut to maintain balance in the HVAC system. Be sure the airspace from the undercut is still sufficient after carpeting has been laid since the carpenter will have hung the doors earlier and may not know the thickness of the pad and carpet.

Exterior doors with magnetic seals will offer superior air infiltration benefits.

Cabinets

DEFINITION
CONSIDERATIONS
COMMERCIAL STATUS
IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
GUIDELINES

CSI NUMBER

064 100

DEFINITION:

This section pertains to interior storage cabinets.

CONSIDERATIONS:

Most conventional cabinets are made of plywood with interior grade glue, particle board, or medium density fiberboard all of which outgas urea formaldehyde. The use of solid wood, metal, or formaldehyde-free materials will mitigate a potential indoor air quality problem. A low pressure laminate such as melamine can seal in urea formaldehyde.

The costs of employing these alternative materials are higher than conventional materials. An additional option is to seal the particleboard, interior plywood, or medium density fiberboard (MDF) components with a finish that prevents outgassing. This should be done prior to installation since it is necessary to access all the edges and backs.

Solid domestic hardwood cabinets use a wood resource (domestic hardwood trees)which has a positive growth/removal rate on a national basis (trees are growing at a faster rate than they are being removed). Any solid wood components of cabinets using MDF or plywood can also be specified to be a domestic hardwood.

	Commercial Status			Implementation Issues
	T E C H N O L O G Y	S U P P L I E R S	C O S T	F I N A N C I N G	A C C E P T A N C E	R E G U L A T O R Y
Solid Domestic Hardwood
Least Toxic Material

	Satisfactory
	Satisfactory in most conditions
	Satisfactory in Limited Conditions
	Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS

TECHNOLOGY:

Well-developed for solid wood cabinetry. Least toxic alternatives are early in development.

SUPPLIERS:

Kitchen cabinet suppliers and architectural mill shops supply solid cabinetry. Formaldehyde free cabinet material must be ordered from out of the area and put into custom built cabinets.

COST:

Costs for solid cabinetry exceed conventional cabinet costs in varying amounts according to wood type.

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES

FINANCING:

Available.

PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:

Solid wood cabinets can be considered a “healthy home” issue and would have broad-based appeal. Solid wood cabinets are highly valued as an aesthetic and quality enhancement.

REGULATORY:

None.

GUIDELINES

Standard practices apply to installing solid cabinetry.

Plywood without urea formaldehyde or medium density fiberboard can be used as part of the cabinets to help offset high costs.

If sealing particleboard or other urea formaldehyde containing components, be certain to cover all surfaces. This is best done before the cabinets are installed.

Paints, Finishes and Adhesives

DEFINITION
CONSIDERATIONS
COMMERCIAL STATUS
IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
GUIDELINES

CSI Numbers

Division 9 – Finishes

DEFINITIONS:

This section addresses finishes such as paint, stain, and varnishes and adhesives that can be applied on-site.

CONSIDERATIONS:

Most finishes and adhesives contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which outgas and adversely affect indoor air quality. Lower VOC and non-VOC products are now readily available from many companies, however.

The Environmental Choice(TM) Program in Canada has established minimal VOC standards for finishes to receive their Eco Logo(TM). The Environmental Choice(TM) program recognizes negative impacts on the environment and people from VOCs. California and a number of other states have now adopted and sometimes improved upon those Canadian standards.

Low biocide paints avoid the fungicides and mildewcides typically added to latex paint to extend shelf life. These additives are considered harmful to indoor air quality and are specifically avoided by environmentally sensitive persons.

Natural plant/mineral-based finishes and adhesives are available from a number of sources, though they’re still hard to find in many big-box stores. They cost 1 to 1 1/2 times more than standard products. Low biocide and VOC paints also cost more. Low biocide paints can spoil if not used quickly.

Choose a low or no-VOC paint

VOCs (volatile organic compounds) are the fumes that you smell while you paint, and sometimes several days after. A VOC is an organic chemical that becomes a breathable gas at room temperature. Some examples are benzene, ethylene glycol, vinyl chloride and mercury.

VOCs in paint usually come from additives to the paint, such as fungicides, biocides, color, and spreadability agents. High levels of VOCs in paints can cause headaches, allergic reactions, and health problems in the very old, very young and in those with chronic illnesses.

Concerns about air pollution and hazardous waste have greatly reduced the use of oil-based paints which can release high amounts of VOCs and contain toxic solvents. Alkyd-based paints and latex paints are much safer, but some still have high levels of VOCs.

Because of health and safety concerns, paint manufacturers around the country have made great strides in formulating paints that have no or low-VOCs and that provide excellent results.

Ask question, read labels

When buying paint, work with a knowledgeable paint representative at your local paint or hardware store. Seek out someone that can answer questions about environmental concerns as well as offer application advice. Let your paint representative know that you want to use no VOC paint, or the lowest VOC paint available. If you plan to hire a painting contractor, specify that no or low-VOC paints be used.

You can determine the VOC content of paint by reading the label. It is usually expressed in terms of grams per liter. The most environmentally-friendly choice is to buy a paint with no VOC’s. But if the paint you need for the job contains VOCs, try to choose a paint no higher than 250 grams per liter for latex, and if you must use oil-based paint, no higher than 380 grams per liter. These numbers are usually on the label or on the official product literature. If these numbers are not available, consider choosing another brand.

Painting tips

If the paint you choose does contain some VOCs, there are ways to lessen their impact on the air quality in your home. Below are some helpful hints:

Make sure your work area is well ventilated with outside air. Use a fan to make sure that fresh, outside air is continually moving into and out of your work area.
If possible, leave the house for a while after you paint. Keep the area vented to the outside while you are gone.
If you cannot leave, try to stay out the painted rooms for along as possible. Shut the doors and the air ducts, and open the windows to that area.

Proper clean-up and disposal of paint

Proper disposal of paint protects you, garbage collection workers, and the environment.

If you’ve used latex paint, wash brushes and rollers in the sink with soap and warm water. Don’t rinse your brushes on the grass or in the gutter-it could end up in a nearby creek where it could harm fish and wildlife. Take the lids off of any empty latex paint cans and let them dry, then throw these into the trash with the lids off. If you have paint left, check with neighbors to see if they need any. Any unused portions may also be taken to your area’s Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center.

If you’ve used oil-based paint, take unused portions to the Hazardous Waste facility. Solvents used to clean equipment should also be taken to the Hazardous Waste collection facility for disposal. Do not rinse brushes or equipment on the ground or in the gutter.

	Commercial Status			Implementation Issues
	T E C H N O L O G Y	S U P P L I E R S	C O S T	F I N A N C I N G	A C C E P T A N C E	R E G U L A T O R Y
Water-Based Adhesives
Minimal VOCs
Low-Biocide
Natural Paints

	Satisfactory
	Satisfactory in most conditions
	Satisfactory in Limited Conditions
	Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS

TECHNOLOGY:

The finishes and adhesives discussed in this section perform satisfactorily.

SUPPLIERS:

Low VOC paints are becoming available from major paint manufacturers and can be obtained locally. Water based adhesives are also locally available. Low biocide and natural paints must be ordered. There are some local sources for natural paints.

COST:

Water-based and solvent-free adhesives and low VOC paints are competitively priced. Low biocide paints and natural finishes are significantly more expensive.

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES

FINANCING:

Available.

PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:

Materials that are considered more healthful have a broad-based appeal. Some people may feel that mildew problems could occur in paints that do not have a mildewcide such as a low-biocide paint.

REGULATORY:

None.

GUIDELINES

1.0 Low VOC paints characteristics

1.1 Water-based paints

Not formulated or manufactured with formaldehyde.

Not formulated or manufactured with halogenated solvents.

Not formulated or manufactured with mercury or mercury compounds or tinted with pigments of lead, cadmium, chromium VI and their oxides.

VOC content does not exceed 250 g/l.

Not formulated or manufactured with aromatic hydrocarbons.

1.2 Solvent-based paints

Not formulated or manufactured with formaldehyde.

Not formulated or manufactured with mercury or mercury compounds or tinted with pigments of lead, cadmium, chromium VI and their oxides.

Not formulated or manufactured with aromatic hydrocarbons in excess of 10% by weight.

VOC content does not exceed 380 g/l.

Not contain any halogenated solvent.

2.0 Low biocide finishes

Pesticides and preservatives are added to water based paints and should be in very low levels. Levels as low as 0.01 to 0.025% can be effective in preventing spoilage and not be adverse to health.

Avoid formulations with formaldehyde.

3.0 Natural Finishes

Typically require thinning.

May require that colors be added by applicator.

4.0 Adhesives

Select water-based adhesives.

Companies supplying natural finishes often offer natural adhesives.

Floor Coverings

DEFINITION
CONSIDERATIONS
COMMERCIAL STATUS
IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
GUIDELINES

CSI Numbers:

09680 Carpeting
09681 Carpet Cushion
09690 Carpet Tile
09300 Tile
09760 Floor Treatment
09700 Special Flooring

DEFINITION:

The floor coverings addressed in this section pertain to non-wood flooring: carpeting and its padding, tile products, and linoleum (as opposed to vinyl). These are coverings that would be used in all the primary areas of a home. (Wood flooring is addressed separately.)

Recycled-content carpet padding comes in two primary types – from old padding and from reclaimed carpet fibers.

Recycled-content carpeting is made from recycled PET derived primarily from post-consumer plastic soft drink containers.

Natural linoleum is made from softwood powder, linseed oil, pine tree resins, cork, chalk, and jute backing.

Recycled-content tile that is currently available is made from waste glass such as lightbulbs and auto windshields. An additional recycled-content tile is made from a byproduct of feldspar mining.

Natural carpets are those made from grasses, cotton, and wool with minimal treatment.

CONSIDERATIONS:

Common floor coverings are most often cited as primary contributors to indoor air contamination. This is due to the VOC constituents (volatile organic compounds) present in the binders used in the fabrication of the materials such as carpet padding and carpeting and in the adhesives used to apply carpet padding and tile.

Since homes are now constructed tightly in order to conserve energy, chemicals outgassing from building materials are more potent and harmful. Formaldehyde outgassing is a primary threat from commonly-used floor coverings.

Airing a home before it is occupied will dilute the chemicals during their most potent initial stage. However, high levels of VOC’s will outgas for months and, in many cases, will continue to outgas for years. Reducing the application of VOC’s in the home can be achieved through alternatives – mainly associated with the use of carpeting.

This section identifies recycled-content materials which are durable, high quality, and attractive floor coverings. The use of these materials strengthens the viability of our recycling efforts and greatly benefits our resource and energy impacts.

Linoleum and natural carpets use renewable resources and offer durability without compromising aesthetics. The cork used in linoleum is harvested from the cork tree on an ongoing basis without harming the tree. Along with cotton and wool, carpet-type floor coverings are available from grasses and reeds.

Ceramic tile offers outstanding durability and maintainability. It also has high aesthetic value.

	Commercial Status			Implementation Issues
	T E C H N O L O G Y	S U P P L I E R S	C O S T	F I N A N C I N G	A C C E P T A N C E	R E G U L A T O R Y
Carpet Pad
Recycled Carpet
Ceramic Tile
Linoleum
Recycled Tile
Natural Carpets

	Satisfactory
	Satisfactory in most conditions
	Satisfactory in Limited Conditions
	Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS

TECHNOLOGY:

Adequately developed.

SUPPLIERS:

Available locally, except recycled-content tile.

COST:

Recycled-content padding and carpeting are priced competitively. Recycled-content tile is higher priced than average tile products. The least toxic adhesives used with ceramic and recycled tile are locally available at competitive costs. Linoleum will cost more than low cost vinyl flooring. Natural carpet materials are more costly than common carpet materials, but competitively priced with standard high quality carpeting.

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES

FINANCING:

Available.

PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:

Healthy home issues are among the highest environmental appeals to homebuyers. Buyers may be wary of recycled-content floor coverings, but they will find that they are indistinguishable from non recycled-content products.

REGULATORY:

None.

GUIDELINES

1.0 Recycled content padding and carpeting.

Standard installation.

Types of recycled padding.Rubber-based recycled padding is quite common. It can outgas. Environmentally sensitive individuals should check a sample of the padding material for any adverse reactions.

Recycled padding from carpet fibers is also available and may be more suitable for environmentally sensitive persons.

2.0 Water-based adhesives.

A least toxic alternative. Now common in the flooring industry.

Standard application.

3.0 Linoleum.

Installed similarly to vinyl flooring.

If the backing material is jute, the cuts for seams need to be beveled away from the seam. The jute backing “relaxes” with use and will spread out.

Select installers that have received factory installation training.

4.0 Recycled-content tile.

Handled like ceramic tile.

Products listed in the Resources section are suitable for high traffic commercial applications.

Building Materials

Energy

Water

Recycle/Reuse/Etc

Resources

Non Toxic Termite Control

CSI Numbers:

DEFINITION:

CONSIDERATIONS:

COMMERCIAL STATUS

TECHNOLOGY:

SUPPLIERS:

COST:

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES

FINANCING:

PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:

REGULATORY:

GUIDELINES

1.0 Prevention

2.0 Sand Barriers

2.1 Slab Barriers

2.2 Sand Selection

2.3 Performance

3.0 Metal Termite Shields

4.0 Monitoring, Detection and Identification

5.0 Termite treatment

Structural Insulating Wall Panels (SIPs)

CSI NUMBER:

DEFINITION

CONSIDERATIONS:

COMMERCIAL STATUS

Technology:

SUPPLIERS:

COST:

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES

FINANCING:

PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:

REGULATORY:

GUIDELINES

1.0 Ordering panels

2.0 Panel details

Structural Insulating Wall Panels (SIPs)

CSI NUMBER:

DEFINITION

CONSIDERATIONS:

COMMERCIAL STATUS

Technology:

SUPPLIERS:

COST:

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES

FINANCING:

PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:

REGULATORY:

GUIDELINES

1.0 Ordering panels

2.0 Panel details

Earth Materials

DEFINITION CONSIDERATIONS COMMERCIAL STATUS IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES GUIDELINES

CSI Numbers

DEFINITIONS:

CONSIDERATIONS:

COMMERCIAL STATUS

TECHNOLOGY:

SUPPLIERS:

COST:

IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES

FINANCING:

PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:

REGULATORY:

GUIDELINES

1.0 Stone

1.2 Indigenous Stone Description

2.0 Brick

3.0 Soils for Rammed Earth, Caliche Block, and Soil Material Construction

3.1 Soil Testing

3.2 Chemical Soil Stabilization

3.3 Strength of tested earth and caliche block

3.4 Soil Handling

4.0 Caliche and Soil Block Construction

4.1 Materials

DEFINITION
CONSIDERATIONS
COMMERCIAL STATUS
IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
GUIDELINES