Green Materials, Systems & Evaluation

This unit examines sustainable building materials, alternative wall and floor systems, finishes, and basic energy- and water-saving measures used in green homes. Students will learn to evaluate manufacturer claims and life-cycle impacts, apply common efficiency installations, and specify compliant materials in preparation for final design and construction work.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze life-cycle environmental and health impacts of common and alternative building materials (e.g., heavy timber, cob, cordwood, PISE, Kirei board, eco resin panels) to inform material selection
• Evaluate manufacturer documentation, labels, and claims to determine product suitability, veracity, and compliance with relevant green building standards and North Carolina rules
• Apply proper installation and retrofit practices for energy- and water-efficiency measures (including insulating pipes, water heaters, attics, and implementing passive clothes drying) to improve building performance
• Demonstrate the ability to specify and justify finishes and systems (floor finishes, countertops, paints, steel framing, concrete mixes, and other finishes) for a green home design that balances performance, cost, durability, and health