MOKULUA HPB has partnered with the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB) to promote and develop projects that conform to the National Green Building Standard (NGBS) requirements, thereby earning a level of certification ranging from; Bronze, Silver, Gold or Emerald. In order to achieve each level of certification, homes must meet various category credits some of which are “mandatory” requirements, while others are opportunities for potential points, earning projects higher certification levels. The following are the 6 credit chapters that make up the NGBS rating system;
- Chp. 5 – Lot Design, Preparation and Development
- Chp. 6 – Resource Efficiency
- Chp. 7 – Energy Efficiency
- Chp. 8 – Water Efficiency
- Chp. 9 – Indoor Environmental Quality
- Chp. 10 – Operation, Maintenance and Building Owner Education
Each category focuses on specific aspects of a given project and elaborates on the best practices for building the home. NGBS emphasizes these practices should be a part of the entire process, preferably implemented in the pre-construction process, but not required as long as the builder and project team incorporates the minimum requirements throughout the project and provides appropriate documentation accordingly. However, pulling a project team together early in the pre-construction phase is a great strategy which can guarantee a successful project, delivered on Time, Target and Budget.
NGBS also integrates Energy Star (link to ES page) through performance testing, when builders choose the performance or prescriptive pathways. The performance of the home’s energy efficient features and consumption are modeled and measured by the HERS (Home Energy Rating System) program. This series of tests ensures a home’s performance; tightness, air quality, ventilation, mechanical efficiencies, and energy consumption all contribute to a “score” that if adequate Energy Star qualifies and tax credits can be given in recognition of this performance. The better the HERS rating the more likely your home will achieve a higher NGBS level of certification. This “score” is essentially pinpointing the quality and health of your home.
At MOKULUA HPB, we believe strongly that the more time spent in the planning phase the more likely our clients have had the opportunity to explore their project and gain a clear understanding of the intricacies within. This knowledge fosters a confidence that reinforces a team approach and stress free outcome. Fortunately, in our quest to change the industry for the better one High Performance Home at a time; the National Green Building Standard works seamlessly with our approach and offers clients another option for the pursuing certification of their High Performance Home; meeting the highest standards with a home that promotes a healthy life, a place to share and love, and a foundation for the continued pursuit of happiness.
For more information on the NGBS program please click the following link; http://www.nahbgreen.org/; for further information on the National Association of Homebuilders please click; http://www.nahb.org/.
