Environmental facts and benefits of CATEGORY FIVE HOMES:
- Reduces energy costs
- Uses recycled materials whenever possible
- Energy Star Home rating
- Qualifies for Energy-Efficient Mortgages
- Improves indoor air quality
- Reduces mold problems
- Minimizes construction wastes
- CATEGORY FIVE HOMES is a member of the Florida Green Building Coalition
Reduction in Energy Costs
CATEGORY FIVE HOMES buildings consistently reduce monthly utility costs over the life of the structure. In turn, the heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system can be sized appropriately to reap even more savings.
Manufacturing & Recycling
Concrete construction reduces the pressure on precious natural resources by replacing lumber used in frame construction, with an environmentally clean product. No CFCs, HCFCs or other ozone-depleting substances are used or released during any process. Manufacturing waste is negligible and construction waste is also minimal.
Energy Star Ratings
Qualified homes are independently verified to be significantly more energy-efficient than homes built using traditional construction practices. Savings are based on heating, cooling and hot water energy use. Additionally, homes that meet Energy Star's standards improve structural quality and reduce both energy demand and air pollution. The program also encourages the use of energy-efficient lighting and appliances, as well as features designed to improve indoor air quality.
Energy Efficient Mortgage
The FHA has created an Energy-Efficient Mortgage (EEM) program to help achieve national energy-efficiency goals, reduce pollution and provide better housing for people who might not otherwise be able to afford it. First, the home must be evaluated according to the Home Energy Rating System, which requires a home to exceed energy codes by 30 percent. The Home Energy Rating system awards stars on a scale of one to five.
This program allows buyers of energy-efficient homes to qualify for up to a five percent stretch in their debt-to-income ratio due to lower monthly utility costs. FHA-approved lending institutions, which include banks, savings and loan institutions and mortgage companies, can make EEM loans.
Optimal Interior Environment
Building with concrete eliminates air infiltration through the wall assembly into a structure, which allows for greater control of a building's interior air quality. There are no drafts or cold spots, thus greatly reducing the amount of fuel needed for heating and cooling.
Additionally, exterior walls constructed with monolithic concrete dramatically reduce outside noise pollution. The result is a quiet and peaceful living environment.
Mold and Moisture-Resistant
The CATEGORY FIVE HOMES concrete construction creates a building envelope that is both airtight and resistant to water infiltration. The inorganic nature of concrete means it does not support mold growth ensuring a superior indoor air quality free from unwanted allergens, pollutants and mold.
U.S. Green Building Council – website
Florida Green Building Coalition – website