Structure
The home has been structurally engineered for solid seismic performance. Incorporating “Frame Saver” a new type of timber framing, refer to the article in Build blog. Additionally walls thicker 140mm stud wall framing as opposed to normal 90mm framing. The entire exterior framing is clad in a ridged air barrier which provides superior bracing and also makes the house more air tight and therefore achieving a higher performance thermal envelope. All framing is LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) for superior strength and straightness. LVL is environmentally friendly and reduces construction waste due its manufacturing process.
Foundations
The floor slab is a fully insulated (R3.66)Warm Edge Waffle Slab/Ribraft and has been specifically engineer designed. This latest innovative solution includes a fully insulated Magroc Insulfound edge insulation/protection detail and XPS insulation under the ribs and strip footing eliminating any thermal bridging.
Insulation
Ceiling is R5.0 Pink batts in two layers, with one layer being continuous with no thermal breaks. This achieves a construction R value of R4.73.
Exterior Walls have R4.0 Fibreglass Pink Batts. Internal walls and the mid-floor are also insulated for sound.
Windows and Doors
PVC windows and doors, with Low E excel glass argon filled glazing units with thermex internal spacer between panes. R Value R 0.7
This make a huge difference to both the warmth and sound insulation of the home.
Eaves
West eaves are over size (900mm) incorporated to protect from overheating. The large eaves also protect the home from the weather. The entrance way has a porch canopy for protection from the sun, wind and rain. Main north elevation has recessed glazing to both levels for the same reasons. Carport roof extends to provide shading and protection to the lower level windows and doors.
Energy / Heating
T
he Hydronic Underfloor central heating system is very energy efficient with low running cost. This system would be used during the winter months only and has different zones and a timer/controller. It is powered by an energy efficient air to water heat pump unit. There are different circuits of pipe work within the floor slab of the entire ground floor. These circuit can be controlled separately by the flow controls at the control panel in the storage cupboard under the stairs. There is also a digital timer on the wall in the same location.
PV Solar System – 4Kw CPS solar system with Enasolar inverter.
ERV/Solar wall
The entire home has a ducted energy recovery ventilation system (ERV) that is linked to a solar wall. The Solar wall is a black aluminium cladding that also performs the dual function of solar collector with the warm air drawn from the normal cladding cavity and fed into the ERV system.
Electrical
Lighting is energy efficient with LED and bulkhead lighting and surface mount fittings. There are no recessed downlights in the thermal envelope. External Lighting is daylight and motion sensor controlled with auto, manual and off settings. There is an intelligent energy management system. TV / Phone / Data wiring is provided to all rooms.
Water
High water efficiency (WELS) fittings: 5 stars+ for taps; 3 stars+ for showers; 4 stars+ for toilets; 5 stars+ for clothes washers; 4 stars+ for dishwashers.
Rainwater Harvesting 1500L rainwater collection tank, that stores rainwater for irrigation and flushing of toilets.
Greywater Treatment System
The greywater from the upstairs bathroom is gravity-
fed into a 500l treatment tank. The INTEWA AQUALOOP SYSTEM (designed, sized and installed by ALOAQUA Ltd) treats this greywater in order that it may be recycled for flushing the toilets, washing machines and garden irrigation. Greywater treatment and recycling can save between 30% to 60% of potable water and reduces the pressure on local infrastructure.
Site
The site is fully fenced and landscaped with natives and environmental friendly permeable surfaces. There is a 7m² raised bed vege garden and several fruit producing trees. All site areas are permeable, either planted of porous paving.
Materials
Environmental Choice certified materials. All paints and sealants are low-VOC (volatile organic compounds)
Plasterboard, paints, insulation, carpets and floor coverings are Environmental Choice certified, Other options: FSC certified timber no non-FSC certified tropical hardwoods.
Waste
Construction waste to landfill less than 15 kg per m2 of finished floor area (under 2.7 tonnes for a 180 m2 house). Other options: installing Xcomposting /recycling facilities.
Management
A home user guide covering operation
Well defined front entrance with clear street number
Secure locks and catches on all ground floor doors and windows.