Tempo:
SUSTAINABLE HOUSING INSIGHT The location of a house on a building lot must meet local zoning requirements for height, size and setbacks from property lines, have access to the street and, if necessary, provide space for parking. Once these criteria have been met, there may be opportunities to situate the house to take advantage of some sustainable housing principles.
Healthy Indoor Environment
Design surface drainage so that it is conducted away from the foundation to swales, ditches and sewers. Build waterproof foundations and floor slabs in locations with high water tables.
House orientation affects solar heat gain through windows, which can lower winter heating costs and increase summer cooling costs. Consider locating large windows facing south, with shading devices to maximize winter solar gain and minimize summer heating. In addition, consider locating smaller windows facing north to reduce winter heat loss. Unshaded south-facing roofs and walls are potential sites for collecting solar energy (with solar panels for example).
Set foundation elevations so that excavated fill can be used for rough site-grading. The builder should choose the proper elevation to avoid having to dispose of surplus fill or to import new fill.
Environmental Responsibility
Schedule noisy activities during normal work hours to avoid disturbance.
Energy Efficiency
Resource Efficiency
Protect existing trees and landscaping where possible. Protect drainage ditches and sewers from silt, soil or chemical contamination resulting from construction activities. Remove, protect and re-use topsoil and clean fill. Maintain natural runoff patterns. Avoid having surface water flowing onto neighbouring properties. Design site grading to convey storm water to areas where it may infiltrate the soil and replenish groundwater. Keep excavations clear of chemical contaminants, refuse or degradable matter such as branches, stumps and roots.
Affordability
Establish the footing elevation to minimize rock excavation and facilitate connection to water and sewer service or on-site systems. Avoid excessive foundation height or changes in direction and elevation that would increase the cost of the foundation. Set the elevation so that exterior stairs are not needed. In addition to reducing cost, a level-entry makes a home more adaptable to persons with limited mobility.
Healthy Indoor Environment
Design surface drainage so that it is conducted away from the foundation to swales, ditches and sewers. Build waterproof foundations and floor slabs in locations with high water tables.
House orientation affects solar heat gain through windows, which can lower winter heating costs and increase summer cooling costs. Consider locating large windows facing south, with shading devices to maximize winter solar gain and minimize summer heating. In addition, consider locating smaller windows facing north to reduce winter heat loss. Unshaded south-facing roofs and walls are potential sites for collecting solar energy (with solar panels for example).
Set foundation elevations so that excavated fill can be used for rough site-grading. The builder should choose the proper elevation to avoid having to dispose of surplus fill or to import new fill.
Environmental Responsibility
Schedule noisy activities during normal work hours to avoid disturbance.
Energy Efficiency
Resource Efficiency
Protect existing trees and landscaping where possible. Protect drainage ditches and sewers from silt, soil or chemical contamination resulting from construction activities. Remove, protect and re-use topsoil and clean fill. Maintain natural runoff patterns. Avoid having surface water flowing onto neighbouring properties. Design site grading to convey storm water to areas where it may infiltrate the soil and replenish groundwater. Keep excavations clear of chemical contaminants, refuse or degradable matter such as branches, stumps and roots.
Affordability
Establish the footing elevation to minimize rock excavation and facilitate connection to water and sewer service or on-site systems. Avoid excessive foundation height or changes in direction and elevation that would increase the cost of the foundation. Set the elevation so that exterior stairs are not needed. In addition to reducing cost, a level-entry makes a home more adaptable to persons with limited mobility.
©
2026
Lehal.net