ShareThisBenefits of Third-Party Certification
Third-party certification offers many benefits to home builders. The certifier is an independent company that assists the builder in identifying green building measures, such as those above, and then ensures that the measures are properly installed. Many builders want to build green, but may not have all the necessary experience or information.
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Glenn Waer performs a blower door test to measure air leakage within a home. |
Credibility
“Green” has become a marketing buzzword, and consumers can be suspicious of companies make exaggerated advertising claims. Their concern is justified because some companies do exaggerate the green benefits of their products. Builders who are serious about green building will enhance their credibility by seeking a third party certification organization to stand behind their claims.
Information
Green building affects virtually every component and system. Builders often need the help of a specialist to identify options and select the appropriate changes. Third-party certifiers often serve as consultants by researching new products and techniques. Because certifiers see a large number of houses, they can share ideas that have been proven in practice.
Quality Assurance
A large number of trades work on each building: carpenters, plumbers, electricians, HVAC technicians, etc. These workers need a clear understanding of what is expected of them and clear guidance on how to accomplish their tasks. The certifier can assist with training workers and then evaluating their work to ensure that it meets minimum standards. Each home receives at least two inspections. The first inspection occurs after insulation is installed. Insulation quality is assessed to be sure cavities are completely filled and insulation is not compressed. The certifier also inspects heating and cooling ducts, windows, wood framing, etc. The second inspection occurs when the house is completed. The certifier records the model numbers of major energy-consuming equipment (water heater, dishwasher, furnace, etc.) and checks the types of finish materials, etc.
Performance Testing
Even the best equipment must be installed properly to achieve its full efficiency. Certification includes a number of tests that assure proper operation of key systems. Forced air heating system ducts are tested for air leaks, in much the same way that plumbing is pressure-tested for water leaks. Heat pumps must be thoroughly examined for proper air flow, refrigerant charge, and control operation. Ventilation systems are tested for air flow and proper control. Certifiers test plumbing fixtures for correct water flow. If combustion appliances are present, the internal air pressure of the building is measured to detect any possibility that combustion gases might spill into the building. In wood-frame buildings, the moisture content of lumber is checked to be sure that the lumber has dried to a point that it will not support growth of mold or decay organisms.
Energy Performance
A cornerstone of green building is energy efficiency. Using less energy reduces utility costs and leaves more money in the consumer’s budget for other goods. Because energy costs will continue to rise, the investment in energy saving products, techniques, and equipment will grow each year. It’s an investment that gets better and better over time. In new home construction, high efficiency products may increase the initial cost of construction. However, this small increase is financed over many years with a mortgage loan, so that the monthly cost of the additional energy efficiency is less than the money saved on utilities. Thus, each month more money is saved on utilities than is spent on financing costs. Energy saving improvements are a money-making investment to the home buyer.
Lower Exposure to Liability Claims
Builders are responsible for the durability of the house. If poor workmanship or sub-standard materials allow weather or other factors to harm the building, it is the builder that must fix the problem. In the United States, many builders have gone bankrupt because of liability claims for mold growth in buildings caused by moisture intrusion. Green building certifiers require that materials and workmanship remain high so that the building will last at least 100 years. This level of craftsmanship protects the builder from these liability claims.
Rapidly Changing Construction Technology
Like all aspects of modern life, the products and equipment in buildings are advancing in quality and sophistication. Certifiers help builders apply the latest technology to their buildings. By starting ahead of the technology curve, the house will stay competitive in the market.
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