F.A.Q.
- Other builders are offering Energy Efficiency or Green packages...What makes Adams Polk different?
a HERS Index! Without a HERS index, you have no idea how your home will perform and how energy efficient it really is. While we hope that all builders will embrace this new system of designing the entire home as a system, we know that most builders have simply not been willing to see the benfits or are too bogged down in beurocracy to try somthing new and proven. Amazingly, what most builders do not realize yet, is that the energy packages they offer can actually cost them more for far less energy efficiency improvements. By taking adavntage of a HERS rater, we are a
- A partially conditioned attic is great but are'nt I just paying more to heat and cool the attic space?
No. In fact, by utilizing a closed attic with foam, the tonnage (size or volume) of the HVAC system can be cut in half, drastically reducing energy consumption. By closing the attic, we are able to create and air barrier (far more important than R-value alone) which helps to maintain a constant temperature and low humidity in the attic where conditioned air is now traveling through duct work that is in a partially conditioned attic space. Imagine the increased efficiency of ducts in a 78 degree attic instead of a 140 degree attic or even a 115 degree attic that utilizes th
- Is a foam closed attic Safe in the event of fire?
Yes! Foam is not flamable simply by applying a flame unitl 600 degrees and even then, it is burns very slowly. At 600 degrees, the other components of the home will already be on fire. The Foam we use has an ESR report that certifies it's capabilities and burn characterictics. Also, because we have eliminated attic ventilation, a fire will spread at a much slower rate because the fire is not fead with Oxygen pulled in rapidly from the soffit vents. We have a video interview with the Little Rock Fire Dept.
- What do the Experts Say about Adams Polk Homes?
“Adams Polk is the kind of builder you would expect to adopt cutting edge new green building programs such as the Demilec Seal Solid Program.
- How much can I expect to Save on My Electric Bill?
Energy use is unique to each homeowner and while we cannot forecast exactly how you will use your lighting, what you willset your thermostat at, etc.; we can estimate saving based on typical use. The easiest way to look at this would be to take a typical 2,000 sq. ft. home with a HERS Index of 100 (standard constrcution) and compare it to an Adams Polk Seal-Solid Home with a HERS Index of 63. If the 2,000 square foot typical all electric home had an average electrci bill of $330, our Seal-Solid Home would have an lectrci bill of $190; $140 Savings!
- What is a HERS Index?
A home energy rating involves an analysis of a home’s construction plans and onsite inspections. Based on the home’s plans, the Home Energy Rater uses an energy efficiency software package to perform an energy analysis of the home’s design. This analysis yields a projected, pre-construction HERS Index. Upon completion of the plan review, the rater will work with the builder to identify the energy efficiency improvements needed to ensure the house will meet or in the case of Adam Polk Homes, exceed ENERGY STAR performance guidelines (HERS Index of less than or equal to 86).
