Ideas from Green Mountain Ranch : With Over 200 Green and Universal Design Elements

Exterior Features

1. Glass garage and barn doors for extra light without extra energy use.

2. Preheated hot water from solar panels for water heater, spa, radiant heating.

3. Greenhouses and glassed-in patio to increase lighting levels

4. High ambient temperatures without increased cost (older people often need 78° ambient temperatures) primarily using four passive solar greenhouses.  Our energy costs for ten years averaged less than $70 per month.

5. Insulation with high “R” values to prevent heat loss.

6. All door and window seals pressure and infrared tested to prevent heat loss.

7. Recessed door mat to prevent tripping

8. Thermo pane “E” glass to hold heat in.

9. Beautiful views in DR, LR, Entry, Bath, Spa, Studio and Master BR (beauty reduces stressful thoughts)

10. Full walls of glass in these rooms to increase exposure to natural light.

11. Snow stops on the roof to use snow for insulation value.

12. Drive-up mail box

13. Small lake stocked with 100 German Browns for healthy eating. 

14. Sidewalks not exceeding a 5% slope (with a 2% side slope)

15. Passenger loading zone with zero clearance exterior route for people using mobility devices.

16. Accessible route to all doors

17. Radon mitigation