LEED Construction | Understanding LEED Construction [creditdiagnosis]

LEED Construction | Understanding LEED Construction [creditdiagnosis]

SS Credit 7.1: Heat Island Effect - Nonroof. LEED 2009 New Construction and Major Renovation

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For example, the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI) offers the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Associate credential, which demonstrates a general knowledge of green building principles and the LEED green building ... Energy Efficiency Retrofit Market for Commercial Green Buildings to Double by ...

LEED Construction



As the awareness of the need for green commercial and residential construction has grown, so has the necessity for a certification system that rates how well a structure is built or remodeled. For this reason, the US Green Building Council developed the LEED certification system that measures the level of green building practices that have been implemented in the construction process. LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, but lets take a closer look at what the program actually entails.



What Does LEED Measure?



LEED certification covers the broad spectrum of green building practices. Whether it is water efficiency, energy reduction, lower carbon emissions, minimized construction waste, or indoor air quality improvement, you will find it listed under the various guidelines for certification under the LEED green building system.

These measurements are weighted based on the perceived value of the different improvements or green practices that can be included in the construction process, and they help to promote the directions engineers, contractors, and owners can take to make their home more green.



How LEED Certification is Given



Since every project is different, a long checklist of green construction practices has been created for those wishing to receive certification with the different options weighted based on their overall impact. The builder marks the LEED improvements incorporated into the structure, and then the points are tallied. That final score is adjusted based on the size of the home or project. For an average home, the different LEED awards and their required points are Certified (45), Silver (60), Gold (75), and Platinum (90). All of these items are verified by an independent third party that makes inspections before construction begins, and several times during the process.



8 Categories of the LEED Rating System for Homes



1.Innovation and Design This credit is designed to make sure that the project is looked at by a whole before the construction actually begins. Many of the most important green building strategies require the coordination of the various trades for a fully integrated home design.



2.Location and Linkages These credits are determined by the location of the project, as an infill project requires less infrastructure versus a remote plot of land. The idea is to promote density and the access and use of public transport to minimize the impact on the local environment.



3.Sustainable Sites This focuses on the impact of the construction site itself. Awarding points for undisturbed land, proper erosion controls to protect rivers and streams from runoff during the building process, and surface water management for the completed project.



4.Water Efficiency The minimization of water use inside and outside the home is required to earn these points. This includes water efficient plumbing fixtures, irrigations systems, and even the incorporation of rain water or grey water for outdoor water purposes.



5.Energy and Atmosphere The home must meet or exceed the requirements for an Energy Star label, which includes advanced insulation, windows, HVAC equipment, lighting, and appliances.



6.Materials and Resources Limiting the amount of waste and unnecessary building materials will earn the different points associated with this category. The efficient use of environmentally friendly products will reduce construction waste and make the home friendlier to people and nature alike.



7.Indoor Environmental Quality As construction becomes tighter and building more insulated, the need for proper moisture and air contaminant control becomes paramount. This category is designed to ensure a safe interior environment in the completed structure.



8.Awareness and Education A high quality green building must be properly maintained to make sure that the structure keeps its high level of efficiency throughout its life. Anyone following the LEED certification process must educate the owners and managers of the completed home or building to receive this credit.



The LEED green building program is the most rigorous and internationally recognized certification for energy efficient and environmentally friendly construction of commercial and residential structures. Smart builders and owners can save drastically over the life of the building due to reduced energy and water costs, while enjoying higher indoor air quality. Make sure to consider LEED certification for your next building project or home. Recommend LEED Construction | Understanding LEED Construction Topics