Green Building

Michelangelo Homes, LLC is committed to providing its customers with expertise on the latest of Green Alternatives and providing an accurate analysis of the efficiency and expected benefits. Working closely with engineers and scientific professionals who are the leaders in their specialties, we can advise our clients on the systems and products that are best suited for their needs. This philosophy along with our two-year warranty commitment provides our customers with the “peace of mind” and assurance that their investment is protected after the completion of their home and continues the commitment by Michelangelo Homes to “partner” with the client throughout the building process and beyond.

Michelangelo Homes’ approach to green building is centered around the complete systems approach. Efficiency is maximized when the products and systems are viewed in relation to each other rather than independently.

1. Lot Design and Preparation- In this area, we make sure the owner is aware of the possibilities of maximizing the passive solar opportunities, minimizing soil disturbance and maximizing existing on-site vegetation as well as taking advantage of the natural habitat both for storm retention and landscaping, minimizing slope disturbance through proper driveway location, retaining walls, terracing and re-stabilization techniques.
   
   
2. Resource Efficiency- Begins with the material selection in the design phase of a project to utilize the use of natural resources. Selection of materials such as engineered wood products and/or renewable products are emphasized. We also concentrate on reducing job waste and efficiently disposing of the waste that is generated.
   
   
3. Energy Efficiency- Utilizing the latest techniques and systems to reduce energy consumption. Employing systems like Variable Refrigerant Flow Zoning (VRFZ), which provides greater comfort for the occupants while reducing the power consumption of the heating and air conditioning system. The use of energy efficient appliances, high performance windows with low E coatings and conditioned air space with icynene insulation are other programs we incorporate into our homes.
   
   
4. Indoor Environmental Quality- Utilization of standard practices like whole house air filtration systems, “Fresh Effects” fresh air make-up systems, conditioned attic spaces, low VOC carpeting and other programs to prevent contaminants and also remove those that are present. Also, there is an emphasis on moisture control in our homes since we use timers on exhaust fans and humidistats on HVAC systems. Any cold water pipes or HVAC ducts that are in non-conditioned space are insulated. Also, provisions are made for moisture protection and weather protection for all stored materials.
   
   
5. Water Efficiency- For the interior of our homes, we use Energy Star appliances, timers on hot water heaters, water efficient faucets and water closets. For the exterior of our homes, we concentrate on increasing efficiency by using drip irrigation wherever possible, grey or reclaimed water if available and rainwater collection systems, if allowed by the local municipality.
   
   
6. Homeowner Awareness & Education- Each homeowner is provided with a maintenance and warranty manual, along with orientation sessions by our warranty and maintenance group. Provided under this program are tips on recycling, water and energy management as well as the identification and labeling of safety valves and controls.