Windows
Energy-efficient windows employ advanced technologies, such as protective coatings and
improved frames, to help keep heat in during winter and out during summer. These windows
also block damaging ultraviolet sunlight that can discolor carpets and furnishings. LMT
Custom Homes LLC uses these type of windows and doors in their homes that feature low E,
argon filled windows and patio doors. Low-E glass works like sunblock to help protect your
home and furniture from ultraviolet (UV) light. These windows have insulation values 50%
better than standard double pane glass windows.
Insulation
Properly installed and inspected insulation in floors, walls, and attics ensures even
temperatures throughout the house, reduced energy use, and increased comfort. LMT Custom
Homes LLC feature fiberglass insulation which provides R21 exterior walls and R40 ceilings
which reduces heat flow through walls and ceilings. All thermal bypass locations are sealed
to prevent air leakage. The combination of a tightly sealed well insulated home make an LMT
Custom Homes LLC home inexpensive to heat and cool. The insulation and thermal bypass
sealing is inspected by an Energy Star inspector. Our homes are estimated to be 45% better
insulated than current International Residential Code standards. Our homes are inspected
after insulation as part of the Energy Star certification process, including a blower door
test to insure a well sealed home.
Appliances
ENERGY STAR qualified appliances incorporate advanced technologies and use 10 to 50 percent
less energy than standard appliances. From refrigerators to clothes washers, ENERGY STAR
qualified appliances save energy, save money, and help reduce emissions of greenhouse gases
and air pollutants at the source. Poirier Homes provided refrigerators, refrigerator and
freezer drawers, and dishwashers are always Energy Star rated. ENERGY STAR qualified
refrigerators use up to 40 percent less energy than the conventional models sold in 2001
and at least 15 percent less energy than models built to current federal standards. These
refrigerators feature high-efficiency compressors, improved insulation, and more precise
temperature and defrost mechanisms. ENERGY STAR qualified freezers use at least 10 percent
less energy than required by current federal standards. ENERGY STAR qualified dishwashers
use at least 41 percent less energy than the federal minimum standard for energy
consumption.
HVAC
In addition to using less energy to operate, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems
can be quieter, reduce indoor humidity, and improve the overall comfort of the home. When
properly installed into a tightly sealed home, this equipment will not have to work so hard
to heat and cool the home. Sealing holes and cracks in the home’s “envelope” and in
heating and cooling duct systems helps reduce drafts, moisture, dust, pollen, and noise. A
tightly sealed home improves comfort and indoor air quality while reducing utility and
maintenance. LMT Custom Homes LLC HVAC systems are multi-zone hydro-air systems including
an Energy Star rated Weil-McLain Ultra 230 High Efficiency 93% AFUE natural gas fired
boiler, with outdoor reset feature for optimal gas usage (standard gas boilers are 82%
efficient). The main HVAC truck lines are made from sheet metal sealed with mastic to
prevent air leakage and wrapped with insulation. The air conditioning units are 16 SEER
units and use ozone responsible R410A refrigerant, which merits the US EPA’s most
stringent environmental ratings. These units are 12% more efficient than standard code
compliant air conditioning units. The air conditioning coil used features an antimicrobial
drain pan that resists mold and mildew growth. Humidifiers introduce humidity during the
heating cycle to provide comfort and protect the home. Air cleaners remove particles down
to three microns from the indoor air removing allergens and pollutants. An indirect
Superstor hot water storage tank uses heat from the efficient boiler to quickly and
inexpensively provide hot water. LMT Homes LLC HVAC systems undergo a duct pressure test
to insure against air leakage as part of the Energy Star certification process.
Lighting
LMT Custom Homes LLC uses ENERGY STAR Certified LED light bulbs in fixtures whenever
possible. These bulbs provide a cost savings compared to standard incandescent bulbs,
operate at a lower, safer temperature, and generate less heat, saving on air conditioning
costs.
- Use about 70–90% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs
- Last at least 15 times longer and can save about $55 in electricity costs over its lifetime
- Meet strict quality and efficiency standards that are tested by accredited labs and certified by a third party
- Produce about 70% less heat, so it’s safer to operate and can cut energy costs associated with home cooling
Siding
The siding on many of LMT Custom Homes LLC is fiber cement siding which come prefinished
from Certain Teed, the manufacturer. The raw materials are low in toxicity – wood pulp,
cement, sand and water (recycled up to 4 times). The siding and paint finish are extremely
durable: Longer lasting materials not only require fewer resources for replacement but also
reduce maintenance and repair costs. Using prefinished materials reduced the need for
painting onsite, and the Unique Colormax manufacturing process bakes on paint in the
factory delivers a high quality, consistent finish, and reduces contaminants during
exterior painting. A 15-year finish warranty ensures reduced need for repainting in the
future.
Framing
Floor joists are Boise Alljoists, a product in compliance with the Sustainable Forestry
Initiative (SFI). Boise joists are 50% stronger than dimension lumber with half the wood
fiber. Subfloor material is Huber Advantech (another SFI product) and Huber Zip System
(SFI) wall sheathing for air and moisture resistance to promote a well sealed building
envelope. LMT Custom Homes LLC will continue to monitor new developments in energy
conservation and is committed to incorporating them in all future LMT Custom Homes LLC
homes.
