Ashlar Homes’ commitment to sustainability is reflected in every step of our home-building process. From advanced framing techniques to the installation of energy-efficient appliances, we focus on reducing energy consumption while maintaining the highest standards of quality for your home. Discover the Ashlar Homes difference when it comes to creating energy-efficient homes that provide both long-term savings and sustainability.

1. Advanced Framing Techniques

One of the foundational elements of our energy-efficient homes is our use of advanced framing techniques such as the application of California corners. This technique minimizes the amount of lumber used and increases insulation space. These techniques reduce thermal bridging—where heat escapes through the framing—leading to better overall energy efficiency of your home.

2. Exterior Walls and Continuous Insulation

The walls of our homes are carefully insulated to keep heat inside during the winter and outside during the summer. We add continuous insulation around the entire home, reducing heat loss and improving the energy performance of the home by ensuring that no air can escape. The exterior walls are also insulated with R15 High-Density batts to further enhance energy efficiency.

3. Attic Insulation and Air Sealing

We go beyond standard practices by utilizing R60 insulation in our attics. This high level of insulation dramatically reduces heat loss through the roof, ensuring your home stays warmer in winter and cooler in summer. All attic accesses are weather-stripped and baffles are installed, preventing gaps that could compromise energy efficiency.

4. Efficient Ventilation and Appliances

To ensure proper ventilation, we duct our microwaves and Energy Star-rated bath fans to the exterior of the home. In select floor plans, we also install Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs), which help to bring in fresh air while minimizing energy loss. Additionally, we use a 96% efficient furnace and a 16 SEER AC unit to provide consistent comfort with minimal energy usage.

5. Insulated Hot Water Lines

Hot water lines over 3/4″ in diameter are insulated, preventing heat loss and reducing the amount of energy needed to heat your water. This small but significant step contributes to overall energy savings in the home.

6. Energy-Efficient Lighting

All light bulbs in our homes are LED, providing long-lasting illumination without using as much electricity. Dimmers are also installed on lights in areas such as living rooms, bedrooms, and kitchens. This gives homeowners control over lighting levels and energy use, contributing to further savings.

7. Preparing for the Future

Technology is constantly evolving, and our homes are designed with future energy needs in mind. We install conduits from the electrical panel to the attic, making it easy for homeowners to add solar panels if they choose to do so in the future. Additionally, a conduit is installed from the electrical panel to the garage to accommodate future electric vehicle chargers.

8. Third-Party Testing

To ensure that our homes meet the highest energy efficiency standards, we require third-party inspections of insulation, duct leakage, and blower door testing. The energy rater performs a blower door test and posts the results on the electrical panel before occupancy. This provides transparency and peace of mind, knowing that your home has been thoroughly tested for energy efficiency.

At Ashlar Homes, energy efficiency is more than just a buzzword; it’s a commitment to building homes that are comfortable, sustainable, and designed with the future in mind. By incorporating these advanced techniques and technologies, we help our homeowners reduce their energy bills while minimizing their environmental impact. Discover the difference that energy efficiency can make in your next home with Ashlar Homes.