Pre-fabricated Basement Walls – The PAGreenHouse’s basement walls are pre-fabricated in a plant virtually eliminating any job site waste.  The R12.5 insulation minimizes thermal transfer between the ground the house which helps lower utility bills. Since the foundation wall panels are engineered and manufactured they reduce the amount of lumber, stone and concrete required for the foundation which helps protect our natural resources.

Site work – The PAGreenHouse site was carefully staked to ensure minimal disturbance. During excavation only the house footprint and a 15-20 foot perimeter was disturbed. Only 3 large trees and some brush were removed from the site. Shrubs, trees, and vegetation native to NEPA will be re-planted once the home is complete.

Proper orientation – The PAGreenHouse is built on a street running in an east/west direction. This allows the primary living spaces of the home to face south for optimal solar exposure which helps reduce utility bills.

Engineered Lumber – I-Joists were used in the PAGreenHouse instead of 2x12 floor joists. By using the engineered I-joists less mature trees had to be cut down to provide lumber for the PAGreenHouse since I-joists can be made from smaller trees or brush. Furthermore, Huber’s ZIP system was used for the exterior sheathing. Like I-joists this sheathing can also be made from smaller trees or brush. Additionally, the ZIP system is mold resistant which helps ensure healthier indoor air quality.

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