Show Notes: Common Sense for Better Construction - Episode with Joe Thomas, Owner of Elemental Green Homes
Intro:
- Welcome to another episode of "Common Sense for Better Construction," bridging the information gap to help you reach a brighter future in the built world.
- Today's episode is sponsored by Creative Interface Architecture and Interiors, making sustainable construction practically impactful. Visit www.creativeinterface.design.
Interview with Joe Thomas, Owner of Elemental Green Homes:
- Joe Thomas, a passionate advocate for better building practices, certified by the Building Performance Institute as an Earth Craft Builder and Building Analyst.
- Serves on the board of directors for Life Cycle Building Center, a non-profit upcycling building materials to reduce environmental impact.
- Elemental Green Homes focuses on renovating older houses, exceeding current building standards, and preserving embodied energy.
Background and Early Experience:
- Joe's interest in construction began at a young age, working with his father.
- Early interest in sustainability led him to pursue solar energy and become BPI certified.
- Worked in home performance, conducted energy assessments, and participated in programs like Home Performance with Energy Star.
- Co-founded Renewal Systems Solutions, focusing on energy efficiency improvements during the Recovery Act funds period.
Transition to Green Building:
- Joe's interest in green building grew, leading him to become an Earth Craft Builder and purchase a house for Earth Craft renovation.
- Challenges faced in appraisals and the lack of recognition for green building features.
- The importance of durability, indoor air quality, energy efficiency, and water efficiency in green building.
Earth Craft Renovations:
- Joe's model: Buy a house, renovate using Earth Craft standards, and resell.
- Challenges with appraisals and the need for education in the industry.
- Sandy Adamatis, with the Appraisal Institute, played a key role in driving green building standards in the appraisal industry.
Affordable Housing and Sustainable Preservation:
- Joe's work with the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation on Earth Craft renovations for affordable housing.
- Collaboration with South Face to develop sustainable preservation standards.
- Addressing misconceptions about the cost of green building and the long-term benefits, including cost of ownership.
Indoor Air Quality and Health Impacts:
- Importance of controlling indoor air quality in homes.
- Joe shares experiences of identifying and addressing carbon monoxide issues during home performance assessments.
- Low-cost improvements for better indoor air quality, durability, and energy efficiency.
Community Engagement and Resources:
- Joe's involvement with the Life Cycle Building Center and their mission to promote reuse of building materials.
- Mention of quarterly workshops around home affordances.
- Resources for individuals interested in green building: South Face, Department of Energy, Atlanta Community Tool Bank.
Green Building Certifications:
- Joe recommends Earth Craft as a practical green building standard.
- Emphasizes South Face as a valuable resource for training and certification.
- The practicality and benefits of Earth Craft certification for builders and homeowners.
Client Feedback and Impact:
- Positive relationships with homeowners who appreciate Joe's approach to green building.
- Stories of emotional and technical feedback from clients, emphasizing energy efficiency and low utility bills.
- The impact of green building on homeownership stability, community stability, and long-term benefits.
Closing Remarks:
- The importance of education and making green building mainstream.
- Practicality as a driving force behind green building initiatives.
Outro:
- Thank you for joining another episode of "Common Sense for Better Construction."
- Sponsored by Creative Interface Architecture and Interiors, redefining the impact of great design. Visit www.creativeinterface.design.