Engineered-Site-Specific Foundations
We use both pier-and-beam and post tension slab foundations. Our engineers evaluate site conditions, structural load conditions and soil conditions to determine which foundation is best for each new home. All pier-and-beam foundations incorporate crawl space insulation and an integrated sump pump drainage system.
Engineered Floor Truss Systems
We utilize a combination of I-beam trusses, open web trusses and steel truss systems. Some builders use only one truss type for all load conditions in an effort to reduce costs, but our engineers design every floor truss system for superior performance. The result is a home built with a combination of truss technologies which increases overall structural integrity.
1 1/8” Tong and Groove Floor Decking
Using the best floor decking material has numerous benefits. 1) Structural Integrity: 1 1/8” material is 30% more rigid than the next thickest material. 2) Acoustics: the 1 1/8” thickness results in improved noise suppression and less noise transmission to the interior spaces below. 3) Ergonomics: The structural integrity and acoustical benefits combine to yield an ergonomic benefit. There is a very ‘solid’ sensation you get when walking on floors decked
with 1 1/8” decking.
Exterior Walls 2x6 Construction
All exterior walls are framed with 2x6 dimensional lumber versus conventional 2x4 lumber. There are three distinct advantages to using 2x6 lumber for framing exterior walls.
1) Structural rigidity: Shear strength, compression strength and torsion strength of the walls are all increased roughly 17% with 2x6 lumber.
2) Energy efficiency: Our wall cavities are 33% deeper than 2x4 walls and are filled with 33% more insulation. By using spray-applied cellulose insulation, we achieve an R-20 rating which provides significant energy savings.
3) Acoustics: Deeper wall cavities and increased insulation translate into a much quieter home compared
to 2x4 framed walls.
Radiant Barrier Roof Decking
Radiant barrier roof decking works by reducing heat transferred by thermal radiation across the air space between the roof deck and the attic floor. By blocking 97% of the thermal radiation before it reaches the attic, the attic temperature is cooler which in turn keeps the adjacent interior spaces cooler.
Cellulose Insulation and Polycell Sealant
We apply polycell sealant on all top plate and bottom plate penetrations as well as all floor and ceiling penetrations. This seals all gaps and air holes that if left unsealed, create drafts and inefficient homes. Spray-applied cellulose insulation is used on all walls (R-20), all attics (R-38) and in all mid-floor truss systems (R-20). Cellulose cavity insulation is also used on all interior bathroom walls, utility room walls, media room walls and master bedroom walls for noise suppression. Combined, these insulation technologies result in the most energy efficient and acoustically isolated homes available.
Other Best-in-Class Products
• DuPont Tyvek Exterior House Wrap
• Double pane Insulated Low-E Window and Door Glass
• Insulated Garage Doors
• High-Efficiency fully programmable
Energy Star Air Conditioners and Furnaces
• High-Efficiency Tank less Hot Water Systems
These features and technologies are best-in-class products that create additional value and quality in every new home we build.
In addition, every client has the option to upgrade to even higher performance features including the latest EPA Energy Star Standards.
