Green Building Materials News and Reviews

HVAC Motors Can Be More Efficient

2012-02-16T07:45:00.001-08:00

RIVERSIDE, Calif. (www.ucr.edu) — Energy efficiency efforts tend to focus on things such as lighting and insulation. But, in fact, motors that run heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are the largest user of energy in buildings.

At the same time, motor related efficiency requirements are relatively lax. There is no independent verification of motor efficiency, the equivalent of cutting out the Environmental Protection Agency and allowing car makers to say how many miles per gallon their vehicles get.

Sadrul Ula, who is research faculty at the University of California, Riverside's Bourns College of Engineering Center for Environmental Research and Technology (CE-CERT), is trying to change that. He recently received a $385,000 grant from the California Energy Commission to evaluate the efficiency of HVAC motors in building through testing on-site and in a soon-to-be built facility at CE-CERT.

"Everyone turns off lights or bathroom fans," said Ula, who is also managing director of the Winston Chung Global Energy Center at CE-CERT. "But, no one turns off motors. The awareness is not there."

In recent years, large-scale clean energy projects, such as solar and wind farms, have generated many headlines, pushing energy efficiency efforts to the side. But those relatively simple energy efficiency steps can have a large impact. A 2009 report by McKinsey & Company found the United States could reduce annual energy consumption by 23 percent by 2020 by deploying energy efficiency measures.

In California, nearly 47 percent of electrical energy consumption was used by commercial buildings. Motors that create that energy tend to operate at 5 to 10 percent below optimal efficiency, Ula said. Increasing that efficiency can have enormous implications.

To view full press release and downloadable illustration and photo visit: http://ucrtoday.ucr.edu/3078

Largest Solar PV Install in the World

2012-02-07T11:31:00.001-08:00

New York skyscraper uses MAGE POWERTEC PLUS modules 50 stories above ground; 122.4 kW system also largest in Manhattan.

Dublin (Georgia), February 07, 2012. – MAGE SOLAR, part of the globally operating MAGE GROUP, announced that its MAGE POWERTEC PLUS modules are part of a 122.4 kW rooftop PV-installation in Manhattan. The solar array is at the elevation of 737 feet, making the building the tallest in the world with a solar PV-installation on its roof.

The installation on top of the 50-story commercial building in the heart of Manhattan was recently completed using highest-performance MAGE POWERTEC PLUS modules. With their industry-leading 30-year 80% power output guarantee, they are a highly visible, long-term commitment to corporate sustainability and additionally a sound financial investment and innovative business model as well. Since MAGE SOLAR modules exclusively feature positive tolerances (0 to +5 Watts) the system will produce with optimal efficiency for a maximum amount of time.

"MAGE SOLAR is proud to be part of this enormously exciting project," says Joe Thomas, President and CEO of MAGE SOLAR USA. "Whenever a company decides to add sustainability and innovative technology into their business plan, there are economic drivers behind it as well. With MAGE SOLAR's premium performance modules the owners are guaranteed maximum power efficiency and yield for the longest amount of time. But this innovative PV-installation also proves the great adaptability of solar PV systems, be it a homeowner's roof in the countryside, utility-scale trackers, or almost 1,000 feet above the ground in the middle of one of the most exciting cities in the world, solar works everywhere in America."

Photo Caption: The MAGE POWERTEC PLUS modules are part of this 122.4 kW rooftop array. At an elevation of 737 feet from the ground, this is the world's tallest building with a solar PV-array on top of it. © Vanguard Energy Partners

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We would appreciate a sample copy of any reprints.

MAGE SOLAR – The Sun on Your Side
MAGE SOLAR USA, headquartered in Dublin, Georgia, specializes in complete solar systems and provides high-quality photovoltaic modules, intelligent mounting systems and high-performance brand inverters. As a subsidiary of the international MAGE GROUP, it uses the Group's 40 years of know-how to develop optimally coordinated system solutions. A competent partner network guarantees profitable solar energy systems for customers throughout the Americas and in fourteen more countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia.

www.magesolar.com
www.facebook.com/magesolar
www.twitter.com/mage_solar

LEED Certified Paint Plant Opens in Arizona

2011-06-01T08:40:00.001-07:00

Dunn-Edwards Opens the World's First LEED-Certified* Paint Manufacturing Facility

PHOENIX, Ariz. – (June 1, 2011) Dunn-Edwards, the Southwest's leading manufacturer of premium paints, announces the opening of the world's first LEED-certified* paint manufacturing facility. Located in Phoenix, the 336,000-sq.-ft. facility was custom designed to be the greenest and most efficient in the coatings industry. This ultra-modern building encompasses manufacturing, product development, quality control laboratories, a distribution center, retail outlet and office space.

"We have incorporated innovative, energy-efficient equipment and protocols, such as unique dust collection systems that capture and recycle particulates, and novel wastewater recycling techniques. Our systems are classified as ultra-low discharge, meaning that waste generation is greatly minimized," said Karl Altergott, president.

Dunn-Edwards is considered one of the most environmentally-friendly paint manufacturers and an industry leader in eco-efficient principles – all part of its Greener by Design philosophy. For example, throughout its operations the company focuses on initiatives such as energy efficiency, waste minimization, recycling, emissions reduction, and health and safety protection. "So, not only are we manufacturing paint that is more eco-friendly, we have taken great steps to conserve energy and material resources, and to reduce waste in our physical environment," said Altergott.

Even small changes can add up to big eco-savings. The company eliminated cardboard boxes for packaging one-gallon containers and now use heat shrink wrap. Dunn-Edwards is the only paint plant in the United States using heat shrink wrap. This amounts to a reduction of cardboard consumption by one million boxes, which equates to approximately 250 tons of cardboard per year.

Altergott reports that energy calculations on the new plant show a 50 percent reduction over its two existing operations; one was first built in the mid-1950s and the other in the mid-1970s. "Our innovative automation at the new plant is one of the most comprehensive systems in the industry and light years beyond what we had at the older facilities," he explained. "We are so much more efficient -- saving time, money and resources. Increased automation has reduced the physical demands of workers, and thus potential injuries."

With more than 50 percent more space than our two former plants combined, this new plant meets Dunn-Edwards' needs for long-term growth and has room to expand another 40,000 sq. ft.

"Dunn-Edwards is investing in its future in Phoenix by adding more than $40 million in capital investments and creating approximately 120 much-needed new jobs," said Mayor Phil Gordon. "By working together on this project, the end result is a growing Phoenix economy with new jobs."

Barry Broome, president and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council, added, "Dunn-Edwards joins several new companies focused on green and sustainable solutions that have chosen Arizona because of its emerging reputation in this sector. The City of Phoenix and the Arizona Commerce Authority provided strong leadership in supporting Dunn-Edwards' efforts to expand to Greater Phoenix, and we welcome them to our pro-business environment."

An official grand opening will be held Friday, June 3, 2011. A ribbon cutting ceremony with local officials, including Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon and Maricopa County Supervisor Mary Rose Wilcox, begins at 11 a.m., followed by plant tours and lunch. (NOTE: Event is for invited guests and media only.) The plant is located at 520 S. 67th Avenue, Phoenix, Arizona, 85043. For more information about Dunn-Edwards, visit www.dunnedwards.com

*LEED certification pending; estimated late summer with a Gold Award

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NOTE: Photos and video are available

About Dunn-Edwards Paints
Dunn-Edwards has produced and sold premium paint products for 85 years throughout the Southwest. Operating 109 stores in California, Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico and Texas, Dunn-Edwards is one of the nation's largest independent manufacturers and distributors of architectural paints and painting supplies. Based in Southern California, the company is composed of approximately 1,500 employees. dunnedwards.com

Media Contact:
Judy Lynes
310/752-4400 ext. 124
judy@thephelpsgroup.com

This blog post was approved by www.iGreenBuild.com, a New Venture Communications web property.

Home Remodeling to Save Energy and Increase Value

2011-05-04T09:24:00.000-07:00

Some good tips for home remodeling. Energy consumption in older homes can be dramatically improved with changes to heating and cooling systems, insulation, windows, doors, lighting and operating habits. At iGreenBuild.com we see an attractive market opportunity for the resale of homes that have been remodeled using eco-friendly products and sustainable concepts….even in poor market conditions for home sales.

Smart remodeling adds value to your home

Start planning for your summer remodel during Home Improvement Month

Des Plaines, Illinois, May 4, 2011—Spring is in the air, and homeowners are starting to plan their dream home remodeling projects. To commemorate May as National Home Improvement Month, the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) offers homeowners a few words of advice for getting the most value out of your remodeling investment.

More Americans are staying in their homes rather than moving. According to Fannie Mae’s National Housing Survey released in November 2010, 85 percent of the general population believed it was a bad time to sell their home. There’s a lot more to be gained through remodeling besides increased functionality, new appliances, efficient systems, updated décor, additional space or the pure enjoyment of making your home your own. There’s also the increased value your home receives when you make improvements.

With so many options available today, NARI offers a few considerations for homeowners who want to get the most out of their remodels.

Curb appeal goes a long way. Exterior home improvements such as roofing, siding, windows and doors are subject to the elements and usually need to be replaced after a number of years. In terms of re-sale value, updated exteriors give sellers an edge over buyers who are attracted to your home before entering.
According to Energy Star, half of a home’s energy use is dedicated to heating and cooling. If a system is more than 10 years old, it may be time to replace it. New, energy-efficient systems are not only more cost-effective but are also better quality.
All homes benefit from increased insulation and sealing, regardless of climate. Older homes are traditionally under-insulated compared to new homes. And recent insulation innovations like spray foam or cellulose increase the ability to trap air inside. Proper insulation evens temperature flows, reduces energy use and has long-term benefits.
Kitchen and bath renovations are still popular—and for good reason. Homeowners continue to see the value in updating areas of the home that are used frequently and are high functioning. Universal design concepts are commonly incorporated into kitchen and bath areas to accommodate people of all sizes and abilities and conveniences for long-term residents.

Most homeowners can handle routine maintenance projects and cosmetic touch-ups, but it’s recommended they consult with qualified professionals for larger remodeling jobs and major changes to the home’s structure.

Homeowners that need to make several updates to their homes but cannot afford a complete overhaul may be interested in phased remodeling. In this instance, remodeling projects are broken into phases over time, for a long-term project plan. This also lessens the burden of remodeling to the homeowner as they remain in the home as work is being done.

As of April 22, 2010, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) passed new regulations for contractors working in homes built before 1978. The Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting rule mandates that remodelers who intend to work in pre-1978 homes to register their company and complete an 8-hour training and certification course with an accredited trainer. The course teaches remodelers how to safely contain lead in a home as it is being disturbed and reduce exposure to residents and workers. Homeowners should be aware that this new rule is enforced and should be skeptical of any contractors who choose not to follow the law. Visit www.nari.org to find a Certified Lead Renovator in your area.

NARI members represent a select group from the approximately 800,000 companies and individuals in the U.S. identifying themselves as professional remodelers.

NARI is a professional association whose members voluntarily subscribe to a strict code of ethics. Consumers may wish to search www.nariremodelers.com to find a qualified professional who is a member of NARI. For the latest information on green remodeling, visit www.GreenRemodeling.org. Click here to see an online version of this press release.

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About NARI: The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) is the only trade association dedicated solely to the remodeling industry. The Association, which represents more 63,000 remodeling industry professionals — is “The Voice of the Remodeling Industry.”™ To locate a local NARI chapter or a remodeling professional, visit NARI’s Web site at www.NARIremodelers.com, or contact the national headquarters, based in Des Plaines, Illinois, at 800-611-NARI.

EDITOR'S NOTE: NARI can provide hi-res digital before and after photos of award-winning remodeling projects to accompany your story. Contact NARI with your photo request at marketing@nari.org or ask for Morgan Zenner at 800-611-6274.

If you do not want to receive e-mails from NARI please click here to unsubscribe.

Morgan Zenner

Marketing & Communications Coordinator

National Association of the Remodeling Industry

780 Lee St., Suite 200

Des Plaines, IL 60016

P: 847-298-9200

E: mzenner@nari.org

This blog post was approved by www.iGreenBuild.com, a New Venture Communications web property.

Green, Energy Efficient Affordable Custom Home in Florida

2011-04-26T08:58:00.001-07:00

This is a very promising story that goes beyond the promotion of the insulated concrete walls. Giving people access to affordable, green homes that have the necessary components for saving energy and low cost, eco-friendly maintenance, is a smart direction for builders around the globe. Green material providers, banks, developers, builders and contractors need to find a way to create affordable housing and maintain profit for growth…..after all that's sustainability isn't it?

News Release
Contact: Kathy Ziprik
828-890-8065
kziprik@aol.com

Builder Stands Apart in Florida Marketplace

ORLANDO, FL. – When builder Dan Wigh was commissioned to build a custom home for a family in Palm Harbor, Fla. in late 2010 he knew exactly where to start --- from the ground up. Wigh, with Wytek Construction LLC, begins many of his projects with the Superior Walls® AG™ wall system to assure the quality, safety and energy efficiency of the homes his company constructs.

"Our fundamental belief is that families should be able to have an environmentally-sensitive, budget-friendly home at a fair price," says Wigh, president of Wytek Construction LLC in Valrico, Florida. "In many cases that home starts with the above grade application of a concrete AG wall system because they are innovative, watertight and extremely energy efficient.

"In 2007 we investigated 18 different types of wall systems and kept coming back to the AG wall system as the best overall solution for our regional needs in central Florida. Since that time we've used Superior Walls products in a dozen projects, and we anticipate another half dozen going up in 2011. We've been exceptionally pleased with the quality of the walls and the value they bring to our clients."

The insulated concrete AG Walls are produced at Superior Walls by Weaver Precast of Florida in a factory-controlled setting in Orlando. The walls are used in above-ground applications and are watertight, termite-resistant and help reduce noise infiltration into the home.

"Wytek Construction has done what few builders in the state of Florida have been able to do --- they have replaced the old building practices of block and wood construction with energy-efficient concrete walls," says David Miller, Florida Sales Manager with Weaver Precast of Florida. "Their approach of building both the first and second floors with the highest quality products possible gives the homeowners what they need to ensure safety, durability, energy efficiency and peace-of-mind."

Saving Time and Dollars

Miller points out that the time-saving aspects of having certified crews install the AG walls on site are also a benefit to both homeowners and builders. Since the system arrives factory-prepared for easy finishing, costly preparation for dry wall is eliminated along with the separate installation of insulation. Most AG wall systems are installed on the job site in just a day, so that construction of the home is immediate.

"Even during these challenging economic times for the housing industry, we're finding there are homebuyers who are eager to invest in well-crafted homes in Florida," says Wigh. "For us, that means we focus on finding the most energy-efficient and top-quality products available. Those searches have led us to the AG wall system, Simonton Windows® ProFinish® vinyl windows and doors, ZIP® System roof sheathing and wall sheathing from Huber®, Stonehenge Roofing Products stone-coated steel roofing and other products with outstanding reputations.

"It's important that we select products that support sustainable, energy-efficient, healthy home technologies that stand up to the Florida hurricane seasons with elegance. Our building practices and selected products are designed to be resource-efficient and more durable than traditional building processes. This helps us deliver value to homebuyers."

Wyteck Construction builds homes in the counties of Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Polk, Sarasota and Manatee in Florida. For more information on the company, visit www.wytekconstruction.com. Additional details on Weaver Precast of Florida, an authorized dealer of Superior Walls, can be found at www.weaverprecast.com/florida.

This blog post was approved by www.iGreenBuild.com, a New Venture Communications web property.

Yes to Wood as a Green Building Material

2011-04-04T09:44:00.001-07:00

This release is promising news for the green building materials business. I’d like to see the actual lifecycle analysis for wood products referenced below.

SCMA Backs New USDA Green Building Policy

PITTSBURGH, April 04, 2011 –The Southern Cypress Manufacturers Association (SCMA) today commended the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) decision to promote wood as a green building material.
In making the announcement last week, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, said the USDA would preferentially select wood in the agency’s new construction projects, enhance green building material research and development, and demonstrate the use of wood in non-residential structures.

SCMA president Frank Vallot said, “Our industry has consistently spread the message that wood is the ultimate green building material because it’s renewable, sustainable, carbon-neutral, and can be locally sourced and repurposed at the end of a building’s life.

In addition, science-based research confirms that wood outperforms other building materials in lifecycle analysis, which examines the total environmental impact of building products through harvesting, transportation, manufacture, and end-of-life scenarios. New studies show that wood products are among the most energy efficient to produce, and yield fewer air emissions than other building products.

The USDA’s efforts will not only encourage the use of American-grown wood and improve the health of America’s forests, but also will help retain and create jobs in our country. We look forward to working with Secretary Vilsack and his agency to spread the positive environmental and economical messages associated with the increased use of wood products.”

The Southern Cypress Manufacturers Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of sustainable cypress building products to trade professionals and consumers. For more information, visit www.cypressinfo.org.

This blog post was approved by www.iGreenBuild.com

Green Storm Water Detention Infrastructure

2011-04-01T08:50:00.001-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Horizon Bay Congregate Living Facility Uses Oldcastle Precast, Inc. Green Storm Water Detention Infrastructure

March 2011 Tampa, FL –- Oldcastle Precast, Inc. had the unique opportunity to manufacture and install one of their cutting-edge precast products-- Storm Capture Module System, a subsurface storm water detention structure, specifically engineered and designed to accommodate both the storm water storage capacity demands and the load-bearing needs of the land use above them, at the new Horizon Bay Congregate Living Facility located in Tampa, Florida. The Horizon Bay project needed to be able to capture stormwater and pipe it to 6,572 CF of stormwater detention under the parking area to absorb and detain the storm water and allow water to slowly infiltrate into the ground assisting in recharging the groundwater.

Limited available site space necessitated the use of an underground storm water detention structure beneath the facility parking lot. Underground detention was the only practical choice according to design engineer Fuxan Engineering of Odessa, FL. An overflow pipe led to storm sewers, but the majority of the storm water would be infiltrated back into the ground; a common Low-Impact-Development (LID) practice in Florida that serves to help recharge the aquifer. The Storm Capture Module System – a Green Infrastructure System - provided a much better value proposition to the Owner and Engineer in place of the plastic underground storage chambers originally proposed for the site.

The Storm Capture Module system is ideally suited for this type of underground detention application due to its stand-alone, traffic bearing design which does not rely on final paving and associated stone underlayment for structural capacity.

The Storm Capture Detention Modules are constructed of high-strength structural concrete. Their ability to support traffic on the parking lot allowed for a 50% reduction in thickness of base rock required between the pavement and modules, as well as a 20% reduction under the modules, as compared to the originally planned plastic chambers.

The completed system design for Horizon Bay included 37 Storm Capture Modules. Each module is constructed of precast reinforced concrete with interior dimensions of 6’x12’x2.5’ tall, with open bottom for infiltration. Four of the modules incorporated standard inlet grates to allow storm water direct entry from the parking lot into the system. This eliminated the need for the four separate inlet structures originally designed into the project. A precast splash pad was installed below each inlet grate to prevent scour of the bedding material. In addition, the inlet grates are used for direct access to the modules for inspection and cleaning as needed. Each module has large conveyance windows into adjacent modules to allow flow equalization, as well as access for maintenance.

This was the first project where Ripa Construction used the Storm Capture Module system. Ripa Construction’s project managers stated that the modules were a key component to providing access for a very limited site and did not require ongoing maintenance or cleanout during construction. The initial savings experienced from the reduction of aggregates in the foundation, backfill, and under the pavement are hard, tangible costs. Ripa believes that coupling those savings with the experience they gained in the ease and speed of installation and lack of construction maintenance will make this system very useful in future projects.

About Oldcastle Precast, Inc.:

Oldcastle Precast, Inc is the leading manufacturer of precast and polymer concrete products in the U.S. Providing engineered product solutions nationwide to a number of market sectors including: Water - Transportation - Power & Energy -Communications

Engineering Services - Construction Services - Government/Military. Oldcastle Precast is part of Oldcastle Building Products. For more information please visit www.oldcastleprecast.com.

Contact: Brad Boulton

Oldcastle Precast (239) 574-8896

Submitted by: Oldcastle Precast, Inc. National Sales, Marketing, and Engineering phone: 888-965-3227 http://www.oldcastleprecast.com/

Barbara.bogo@oldcastleprecast.com

This blog post as approved by www.iGreenBuild.com.

Energy Efficient Digital Lighting - Easy to use or not?

2011-03-31T10:21:00.000-07:00

SANTA CLARA, CA March 2011 – WattStopper is proud to announce it has received a 2011 Building Operating Management Top Product Award for its innovative Digital Lighting Management (DLM) product line.

An all-digital suite of plug-together lighting controls, DLM automatically configures to the most energy efficient sequence of operation based on installed components. The result is that DLM meets and exceeds energy code requirements, saves more energy than conventional controls, and provides an unprecedented return on investment for both new construction and retrofit projects.

With DLM, each room or space in a building has its own control network where the installer simply connects room controllers, occupancy sensors, switches and photocells as needed. Plug n’ Go technology then recognizes what is connected and automatically configures the space to the most energy efficient operation. For instance, advanced controls strategies such as automatic-on of 50% of lighting with manual-on of the remaining 50% automatically configure when appropriate DLM components are connected. Other DLM innovations include LCD screens on occupancy sensors for ease of setup, as well as a handheld bidirectional configuration tool that provides ladder-free system setup or adjustment. Because DLM uses Cat 5e RJ45 cables to connect components, time-consuming installation activities, such as interpreting wiring diagrams, setting DIP switches, and terminating low voltage wires, are eliminated. This speeds up installation and eliminates the potential for wiring errors.

DLM also offers integration of plug load control, allowing building owners to further leverage code-compliant occupancy sensors and realize greater savings. Most recently, the company expanded the DLM offering with components that allow quick and easy networking of room-based controls and lighting control panels for centralized monitoring, control and programming.

The Building Operating Management Top Products Awards are 100% reader-selected and recognize the most popular manufacturers and suppliers of the year, as determined by building and facility executives who participated in a national survey. Award winners are featured in the January 2011 issue.

WattStopper (www.wattstopper.com), a Legrand group brand, is a leading manufacturer of energy efficient lighting controls for commercial and residential use. We help customers find convenient ways to save energy, meet green initiatives, and comply with energy codes with our comprehensive range of products, programs, and services. Legrand (www.legrandelectric.com ), located in Limoges, France, is the world specialist in products and systems for electrical installations and information networks, offering solutions for use in residential, commercial and industrial buildings.

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BOM Product of the Year DLM Press Release

This blog post was approved by www.iGreenBuild.com

Clean Burn Furnaces - Company Saves $25,000

2011-03-30T07:54:00.000-07:00

Barr Truck Group Saves $25,000 In Just One Winter With Clean Burn Furnaces

LANCASTER, PA -- Barr Truck Group saved $25,000 on heating bills this past winter by converting the used motor oil collected at their two Maryland service facilities into free heat. More than 39,000 square feet of shop space spread between Salisbury and Delmar locations is heated with Clean Burn waste oil furnaces.

“We operate 37 service bays across our two locations and generate thousands of gallons of waste oil,” says Dave Barrett, Machine Shop Manager. “Having a system that recycles that oil while saving us money is a huge advantage to our business.”

As part of the dealer network for the Navistar, Freightliner, Carrier Transicold, and Isuzu brands, Barr Truck has access to tap a nationwide recommendation pool. When research on a new heating system began, the case for Clean Burn was clear. “Once we decided to use our waste oil for heat, we really started to do our homework on the best system,” explains Barrett. “Clean Burn was recommended across the board by the other truck dealers we talked to.”

The conversion from fuel oil heat was made at their Salisbury location in 2008 with the installation of three CB-5000 units. The Delmar location converted from propane heat with a CB-5000 installed in 2008 and a CB-3500 installed in 2009.

The furnaces were installed and are now serviced by Eco Heating Systems, the Authorized Distributor for Clean Burn products in Maryland and Southern Delaware. “They’re a great group to work with,” Barrett says of the relationship with Eco Heating Systems. “The service and support we get from having a local distributor like that is really what sets Clean Burn apart.”

Barr Truck Group recycled more than 8,000 gallons of waste oil in their Clean Burn furnaces last winter alone.

“We know we can count on our Clean Burns,” says Barrett. “The reliability and available support from our distributor allows us to focus on running our business and not worrying about our furnaces.”

For more information on Barr Truck Group visit www.barrtruck.com. For additional details on waste oil heating products available in Maryland and Southern Delaware, visit www.ecowasteoilheaters.com.

There are over 80,000 Clean Burn functional furnaces and boilers located throughout the world that burn millions of gallons of waste oil each year on-site, at the point of generation. This volume of waste oil would otherwise be transported on highway systems and pose a considerable risk to spills and/or contamination to the environment.

Clean Burn is an ENERGY STAR® partner. The company holds numerous industry certifications and works with the U.S. government, the Environmental Protection Agency and various associations to help coordinate the establishment of standards and regulations related to heat recovery and recycling efforts involving used motor oils. For more information on Clean Burn, visit www.cleanburn.com or call 1-800-331-0183.

PHOTOGRAPHY: For images of Clean Burn products visit the MEDIA ROOM at www.cleanburn.com.

This blog post was approved by www.iGreenBuild.com.

LED Lighting Awards

2011-03-22T22:37:00.001-07:00

EvoLucia's Aimed LED Lighting Honored with Next Generation Luminaires Lighting Design Award for Street/Area Lighting

[SARASOTA, FL: March 21, 2011] The U.S. Department of Energy, along with its partners the International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD) and the Illuminating Engineering Society(IES), has announced the winners of the 2010 Next Generation Luminaires™ Solid State Lighting Design Competition including EvoLucia's Aimed LED Lighting among the 37 profiled winners. EvoLucia is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sunovia Energy Technologies, Inc.

The competition drew 368 total entries, though only 138 entries from 61 companies qualified for adjudication. All four of those chosen as "Best in Class" were selected from the indoor lighting market.

After thoroughly evaluating five of EvoLucia's Cobrahead (SCHX5 LED)units, looking for those products with the lowest glare, highest efficiency, best thermal management, highest uniformity and most efficient optics, the judges applauded the glare control, uniformity and efficacy of the SCHX5 LED. EvoLucia's SCHX5 LED was one of the remaining 33 entries that were selected to be a product that the judging panel would recommend to lighting specifiers. There was only one other honoree in the roadway light category selected from all the entries. EvoLucia's SCHX5 LED was the only outdoor roadway/parking luminaire in this category that was recognized with an award.

The EvoLucia product profiled by the judges was the Cobrahead or SCHX5 LED street/area light which employs EvoLucia's patent pending Aimed Optics™ technology to efficiently direct light to a targeted area. The SCHX5 performs with an industry-high Fitted Target Efficacy score of 57 to put the most foot-candles on the ground, in the pattern required, with the best uniformity, using the fewest LEDs and the least power consumed.

Bob Fugerer, Chief Technology Officer of Sunovia, stated "The entire team at EvoLucia applauds the DOE, IALD and IES for advancing the awareness and market-acceptance of innovative LED lighting technologies that are worthy of specification by lighting designers. There is no question that LEDs are setting new standards for general illumination lighting. We are delighted that the distinguished judging panel has recognized the pace-setting efficiencies in energy and light utilization that our Aimed Optics™ technology has made possible in nextgeneration LED roadway and parking area luminaire design."

EvoLucia Aimed LED Lighting is not only more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly than many other light sources, it is also much more effective. Through EvoLucia's patent pending Aimed Optics™ technology, less overall light is needed if the light is correctly focused on the target area, which allows for more efficient lighting solutions.

Links: www.evolucialighting.com www.sunoviaenergy.com

Sunovia Energy Technologieswas founded in 2007 to provide energy-efficient and sustainable energy solutions by commercializing advances in clean technology. The subsidiary EvoLucia Lighting, Inc. markets LED Lighting for roadways, public spaces and other outdoor site applications, using patent-pending Aimed Optics™ technology providing more energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and effective aimed lighting than other light sources.
　
Simply put, "aimed LED lighting" is the method of providing exactly the light that's needed, where it's needed. EvoLucia optimizes utilization of LEDs to put the most foot-candles on the ground, in the pattern required, with the best uniformity, using the fewest LEDs and the least power consumed.
It is this capability of "Aimed Optics" that ideally enables EvoLucia's luminaires to meet and exceed the Dept. of Energy's Fitted Target Efficacy (FTE) Energy Star criteria for solid-state lighting (SSL) luminaires.
　
EvoLucia: Aimed Light. Better Light. Energy Lite.

This blog post was approved by www.iGreenBuild.com

Lead Paint Hazards and Older Windows - Poison Prevention Week

2011-03-21T10:49:00.000-07:00

- March 20-26 National Poison Prevention Week -

PARKERSBURG, W. VA. - If your home was built before 1978 and you still have the original windows, it’s time to seriously consider replacing your windows --- especially if you have young children or a pregnant person living at home. During National Poison Prevention Week --- March 20-26, 2011 --- homeowners are urged to evaluate their windows and make healthy living changes.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the routine opening and closing of windows in homes built prior to 1978 can disturb lead-based paint around the windows, causing paint dust and chips to be released into the air. These lead particles are so potentially dangerous that the EPA now requires contractors to be trained and certified before they can perform any renovation, repair or painting projects that may have previously applied lead-based paint.

“Research indicates that the everyday activity of opening and closing windows creates friction that then allows invisible lead dust to enter the air,” says Rick Nevin, a consultant to the National Center for Healthy Housing (NCHH). “Young children, who crawl on the floor where the lead dust has settled, can be especially at risk. Toddlers put their hands in their mouths … and after playing on the floor near a window, they can easily transfer the lead dust into their mouths. The ingested lead travels through the bloodstream to a child’s developing brain, causing many types of neurobehavioral damage.”

According to Nevin, one of the most important long-term investments a homeowner can make for the overall safety of a family is to replace older windows, using the EPA-approved lead safe renovation guidelines. “Replacing older windows is one of the best ways to reduce lead risks,” says Nevin. “Make sure to use only a contractor that is certified in lead-safe work practices and strongly consider the use of ENERGY STAR® qualified windows, like the vinyl replacement windows offered by Simonton Windows®. These windows are a healthy choice for replacing older single-pane units. They’re energy-efficient and a good value for the investment.”

“At Simonton, we advocate that replacing older windows coated with lead-based paint with vinyl windows is a sensible step for homeowners who want to create a healthier home environment,” says Gary Pember with Simonton Windows. “We believe Rick’s research substantiates the replacement of all windows coated with lead based paint as a way to dramatically help reduce lead dust within that home.”

Nevin explains that, according to his research funded by the National Institute of Health (NIH), homeowners need to understand there are four key steps to completing a “lead-safe window replacement strategy” for the home. “First, they advise replacing all single-pane windows with ENERGY STAR qualified windows,” says Nevin. “Second, stabilize any significantly deteriorated paint. Third, perform specialized cleaning to remove any lead-contaminated dust. And finally, perform dust wipe tests to confirm the absence of lead dust hazards after the clean up.” Research results can be obtained at www.ricknevin.com/windows.

Celebrating its 65^th year of quality manufacturing operations in 2011, Simonton Windows produces ENERGY STAR® qualified replacement and new construction windows and doors, including a line of impact-resistant products. Simonton ranked “Highest in Builder and Remodeler Satisfaction among Residential Window and Patio Door Manufacturers” in the J.D. Power and Associates 2010, 2009, 2008 Builder and Remodeler Residential Window and Patio Door Satisfaction Study^SM. The company also ranked “Highest in Customer Satisfaction among Residential Window and Patio Door Manufacturers” in the J.D. Power and Associates 2010 Windows and Patio Doors Satisfaction Study^SM.

Simonton was also ranked #1 in quality in the 2009, 2007, 2002 and 1998 Brand Use Studies sponsored by Builder magazine and has won three Best In Class Awards currently administered by LBM Journal Research Institute.

Founded in 1946, Simonton’s hallmark has been to deliver the industry’s shortest, most dependable lead-times. Part of the home and security business of Fortune Brands, Inc. (NYSE: FO), Simonton delivers award-recognized products nationwide to key markets throughout the 48 continental United States. Simonton is a founding

ENERGY STAR is a government program that helps consumers protect the environment through superior energy efficiency and is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

This blog post was approved by www.iGreenBuild.com.

Sustainable Cypress Building Products - Architect Case Studies

2011-03-21T07:47:00.001-07:00

PITTSBURGH, March 21, 2011 –The Southern Cypress Manufacturers Association (SCMA) has published two new case studies that highlight the natural beauty, durability, and versatility of cypress.

Cypress Endures the Elements at Wyoming’s Jackson Hole Airport

Flying into the recently expanded Jackson Hole Airport, Jackson, Wyo., is a breathtaking experience. It’s the only commercial airport located within a U.S. national park, Grand Teton National Park, and its panoramic views of the Teton mountain range to the east and the Gros Ventre range to the west are awe-inspiring. That beauty, combined with the innovative use of cypress in its recent renovations, makes the airport a traveler’s delight. But the successful make-over was not without significant challenges.

Cypress Complements Outdoor Living on Shelter Island

When Manhattan architect Cary Tamarkin, of Tamarkin Co. Architecture and Development, set out to build his dream beach house on Shelter Island, N.Y., he considered every detail, including the views of the Shelter Island Sound and the melodic swish of the waves. “My goal was to make a simple, yet intricately designed house that took full advantage of the wonderful site.” Tamarkin said. “And of course, I wanted to design the coolest house on Shelter Island.” His effort, enhanced by the site’s cooling breezes and breathtaking sunsets, resulted in a cypress showcase.

The case studies are the newest in a series of stories that examine how and why architects use cypress for their residential and commercial building projects.

The Southern Cypress Manufacturers Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of sustainable cypress building products to trade professionals and consumers. For more information, visit www.cypressinfo.org.

This blog post was approved by www.iGreenBuild.com.

Eco Friendly Paints: Video Clip

2008-01-11T13:50:00.000-08:00

iGreenBuild.com is featuring video clips about green building products, materials projects and other important environmentally friendly building news.

This week's featured video is about non toxic paints. Provided by Building Green TV this video is a quick overview of what you should know before buying any paint for your home or office project.

Watch the video clip on iGreenBuild.com here.

Cool Roofs Lower Energy Costs

2007-12-16T23:39:00.000-08:00

In the United States, buildings are responsible for almost two-thirds of national electricity consumption and more than one-third of total primary energy use. As a result, the current energy crunch has made conservation measures within these structures more important than ever.

Heating and cooling costs are generally the major expenses associated with the operation of a building. Therefore, any reduction in these costs through the use of energy efficient building envelope components makes sense. Unfortunately, the roof can be the least energy efficient component of a building envelope. Is it any wonder, then, that cool roofing has become such a hot topic?

Cool roofing is gaining in popularity due to its ability to reduce cooling and heating energy usage. Utility companies are also interested in cool roofing because it can help reduce the peak demand in electricity during the afternoon hours of summer months, preventing power disruptions. And, from an environmental point of view, cool roofing can also help to mitigate a phenomenon known as the heat island effect.

Read the rest of this article on iGreenBuild.com.

Green Materials & Schools

2007-11-16T09:33:00.000-08:00

San Francisco, CA – The Collaborative for High Performance Schools (CHPS) recognized notable leaders of high performance school building at the Greentools for Healthy Schools Conference awards luncheon this fall. The Green Apple Awards were distributed to outstanding school districts, school projects and industry leaders for their contributions to the green school movement.

Read the full release on SchoolFacilities.com here>

The Green Building Revolution is Here

2007-11-02T08:46:00.000-07:00

TUCSON, Arizona – October 31, 2007 – With the number of LEED-registered and LEED-certified green building projects increasing at rates approaching 70% to 80% year-over-year, a new book by leading green building consultant, Jerry Yudelson, entitled “The Green Building Revolution,” shows why this trend has become a “revolution.” Yudelson’s book not only chronicles the dimensions of this growth,
but provides its manifesto as well.

Read the full release at iGreenBuild.com here.

Environmentally Friendly Green Building And Bob Vila

2007-07-06T11:20:00.000-07:00

July 6, 2007 - LEED has arrived on Bob Vila's web site and seems to be a subject that this home building celebrity embraces. Leadership In Energy And Environmental Design (LEED) is a program launched by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) as a method of measuring eco-friendly building practices on new construction and renovation projects for schools, office buildings, homes and community development.

Web sites like www.BobVila.com and www.iGreenBuild.com cover a variety of sustainability topics that LEED uses as part of their comprehensive green building rating system.

High Performance, Environmentally Responsible, Energy Saving, Sustainable Roof Systems

2007-06-27T19:04:00.000-07:00

National Coatings Corporation (NCC), announces the release of their new Low Rise Roofing Adhesive (LRRA) adding to their extensive line of high performance, environmentally responsible, energy saving, sustainable roof systems for commercial and industrial buildings.

Camarillo, CA June 27, 2007 -- National Coatings Corporation (NCC), announces the release of theirnew Low Rise Roofing Adhesive (LRRA) adding to their extensive line of high performance, environmentallyresponsible, energy saving, sustainable roof systems for commercial and industrial buildings.

Roofing screws and fasteners can now be a thing of the past. "Why make holes in a roof only to try to seal themup?" says Matt Kolb, President of National Coatings Corporation. The rapidly increasing acceptance of low riseroof adhesives is the result of their many benefits. One study even suggests that the labor savings alone can be upto 75% over the mechanically fastened systems! Seamless monolithic LRRA eliminates the temperaturetransmission from mechanical fasteners resulting in greatly improved building efficiency and positively affectingclimate change. The National Roofing Contractors Association estimates that up to a whopping 18% of the roofsystems R-value can be recovered by using polyurethane adhesive instead of fasteners.

This very high performing product has been subjected to the industry's most rigorous testing includingUnderwriter Laboratories UL 1897, Uplift Tests for Roof Covering Systems and FM Approvals Standard 4470 forsecuring selected roof insulations for various windstorm classifications.

Vince LaBruzzo, National Sales Manager states that "the benefits of adhesion to nearly every deck type, addedinsulation, long list of credentials, no disruption to building occupants, no VOC's and significant labor savings are sure to please the roofing community.

Performance through Innovation™ is the way National Coatings Corporation (http://www.nationalcoatings.com/) responds to the needs of the roofing community. This is a roofing system component engineered to last a lifetime.

About National Coatings Corporation
Performance through Innovation™, National Coatings Corporation (Camarillo, CA) is a leading manufacturerand supplier of premium-quality elastomeric roof and wall coating products. For over 25 years, NCC has providedits customers with leading edge products, support, and thought leadership. National Coatings is a charter memberof the Cool Roof Rating Council and the ENERGY STAR® Roof Products group, founding member of the RRCI(Reflective Roof Coating Institute) and was twice recognized as ENERGY STAR Roof Products Partner of theYear. NCC's leading brands include AcryShield®, AcryPly®, AcryGuard® AcryPly-D™, and AcryFlex®.

# # #

Contact Information

Matt Kolb

National Coatings Corporation

http://www.nationalcoatings.com/

800-423-9557

Energy Management Reference CD Leads To Huge Savings

2007-06-21T03:10:00.000-07:00

At iGreenBuild.com we've received great reviews from energy and facility managers who have used this CD to reduce their energy consumption and ultimately save big on annual energy expenses.
You can learn more about this resource at www.iGreenBuild.com by following this link.

ENERGY MANAGEMENT REFERENCE LIBRARY CD

National Coatings AcryShield Roof Coatings Fight Global Warming

2007-02-02T12:53:00.000-08:00

National Coatings AcryShield Roof Coatings Fight Global Warming

Last year alone, the cool-roof coating materials manufactured by National Coatings under the AcryShield label helped avoid as many as 24 million pounds of CO2 being produced due to
reduced demands for energy.

Camarillo, CA February 2, 2007 -- National Coatings is proud to announce that their AcryShield
cool-roof acrylic, water-based roof coatings, manufactured and installed last year alone, helped avoid as many as 24 million pounds of CO2 production in reduced demands for energy across the nation.

National Coatings, http://www.nationalcoatings.com/, the leader in Acrylic Cool Roof Technology continues to demonstrate leadership in the roofing industry's fight against Global Warming. The commercial/industrial low slope roofs that have an installed AcryShield Cool-Roof will experience ongoing savings for years to come.
"Each company doing their part can make a significant impact on the environment." Matt Kolb, President of National Coatings Corporation further comments, "The compounded cumulative savings that can be realized can be staggering if owners of low slope roofs choose a cool roofing system" The cumulative effect can quickly move into annual avoided production of hundreds of millions of pounds of CO2 annually." says Bill Kirn, Technical Director, noted author, speaker and chemist in acrylic cool roof technology.

About National Coatings Corporation
Performance through Innovation™, National Coatings Corporation (Camarillo, CA) is a leading manufacturer and supplier of premium-quality elastomeric roof and wall coating products. For over 25 years, NCC has provided its customers with leading edge products, support, and thought leadership. National Coatings is a charter member of the Reflective Roof Coating Institute the Cool Roof Rating Council and the ENERGY STAR® Roof Products
group, and was twice recognized as ENERGY STAR Roof Products Partner of the Year. NCC's leading brands include AcryShield®, AcryPly®, AcryPly-D™, AcryFlex® and White Armor™.

Rainwater Harvesting

2007-02-01T01:12:00.000-08:00

Rainwater Management Solutions brings a common sense, cost effective approach to the escalating issue of water conservation and management through its innovative rain water harvesting system designs and its experienced, knowledgeable staff.

Visit RMS on iGreenBuild.com here.

Omni Block on iGreenBuild.com

2007-02-01T00:38:00.000-08:00

We want to take this opportunity to introduce the most-advance process available for building exterior walls in residential and commercial applications. Omni Block is an insulated concrete building system offering superior safeguard benefits along with unparalleled durability and security insuring your investment for the years to come.

The iGreenBuild.com product review team likes this product enough to feature it on the site's home page. Click here to learn more about Omni Block.