Tom’s choice in the early ’70’s of the Environmental Design program
at the University of Hawaii School of Architecture is evidence of his
early “green” directions. At Southern Illinois University he studied
under Buckminster Fuller, the inventor of the geodesic dome, who once
said, "A designer is an emerging synthesis of artist, inventor,
mechanic, objective economist and evolutionary strategist."
THE MOST COST EFFECTIVE GREEN STRATEGIES
When it comes to energy saving choices, the payback period is key, the time it takes for the cost of the item to be offset by the savings it generates. Below are listed, in order, the most cost effective strategies that Tom recommends to his clients.
Click on each item for more information and links to manufacturers or distributors.
GREEN BUILDING MATERIALS
HOW GREEN CAN I AFFORD TO BE?
Many green technologies and materials are more expensive than their conventional counterparts. Those listed below are some of the most cost effective. They are either extremely durable, less toxic than traditional materials or comprised of sustainable materials.
Hardie Siding
This is one of the most popular siding materials used in America today. It is made of concrete, wood pulp, sand and water and is extremely durable as well as attractive.http://www.jameshardie.com/homeowner/siding.shtml
Hi-Bor Treated Wood
A safe termite treatment for wood. http://www.osmosewood.com/hi-bor/hibor.html Wood is a sustainable product. For more information on the advantages of wood construction and lumber sources in Hawaii go to http://hawaiilumber.com/
Insulating Concrete Forms (I.C.F.)
The Makiki home pictured above, designed by Tom, was built using ICFs for all the exterior walls, roof and floors. This is a relatively new construction product in Hawaii which combines polystyrene foam, concrete and steel to construct walls, and in some cases roofs. Hollow foam forms are filled with steel rebar & concrete and are used in place of concrete blocks. Concrete is pumped into the top of the walls once the forms are in place. The walls then receive interior and exterior siding of choice screwed to galvanized attachment strips. This home received a special plaster coating over the roof and exterior. ICFs make a strong structure that is quick and easy to build, saving time and labor costs, with "built in" insulation. It is a green material because it saves on materials and energy. The cost should be less than a conventional concrete block wall because of huge labor savings. It is a good choice for hurricane resistant structures and safe rooms. There are several manufacturers. For more information on the many advantages of this new technology check out these websites: www.polysteel.com, www.nudura.com, www.insul-deck.org.
Thermo-ply
Another excellent sheathing product. It is made from 100% recycled fibers, eliminating the need to cut trees for sheathing. It is extremely tough, light weight and moisture resistant. For more information about the advantages of this green material visit the Thermo-ply website.
Monier LifeTile Roofing
Previously known simply as Monier Tile, these concrete roof tiles are ecological in several ways. They last for generations, unlike many roof coverings that may need to be replaced every 15 or 20 years. In addition, they are good thermal insulators, cutting down on cooling costs in warm climates like Hawaii. They are made from naturally occurring raw materials, and according to their ads, pose no threat to the environment even during manufacture. They are made from sand, cement and iron oxide pigments. In the event they need to be replaced, they can be crushed and used as road base, clean fill or recycled into new tiles. www.monierlifetile.com.
Structural Insulated Panels (SIP)
Honolulu and Maui Counties have made roof insulation mandatory for all new buildings, including homes and even small additions. SIP’s are a proven solution to these requirements on the mainland and here in the islands. These panels can be used for roofs, walls and floors and provide structural strength and insulation. http://www.sips.org/ South Pacific Builders is a local company that supplies SIPs. http://www.southpacificbuilders.com/
