• Hearthstone uses fast-growth pine for their log and timber frame packages. The timbers we use are primarily grown in Eastern Tennessee and Western North Carolina, within 100 miles of Hearthstone’s manufacturing facility.
• The SIP panels we use are highly energy-efficient, saving significantly on heating and cooling use.
• We have many resources for reclaimed and antique lumber. The use of this wood for flooring, trim and cabinetry not only preserves trees, but also add a great deal of rustic charm to your home.
• We encourage the use of High Performance windows and energy-efficient heating and cooling systems.
• We recycle on our job sites. Our Project Managers work to reduce job site waste. We recycle not only employee-generated waste, such as drink cans, but also left-over job site materials.
• On remodel projects, we aim for less waste as well. Any materials that are removed, yet usable, are donated to Habitat For Humanity’s Re-Store here in Boone.
• We use biofuels in our diesel vehicles.

To make your home healthier, more comfortable, and highly energy-efficient, we recommend:

• Lot Design, Preparation, and Development
  
  • Select the site do reduce environmental impact.
  • Design the site to conserve landscape and natural resources (trees, shrubs, etc.).
  • Design appropriate storm water management and water harvesting.
  • Consider building orientation and landscaping for passive solar design.
  • Design for passive cooling (basements, whole-house fans, cross-ventilation).
  • Design appropriate roof overhangs and covered entryways.
• Resource Efficiency
  
  • Use advanced framing techniques.
  • Use pre-cut or pre-assembled building components.
  • Reuse salvaged and/or recycled materials when it’s appropriate and practical.
  • Use Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or other 3rd party certified wood products.
    
  • Sort and recycle on-site building materials.
• Energy Efficiency
  
  • Size heating and cooling system appropriately—slightly undersized is better.
  • Keep ductwork out of exterior walls and within the conditioned space.
  • Consider using highly efficient Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs).
  • Insulate all exterior headers, corners, band joists and caulk or foam framing gaps.
  • Consider tankless water heaters.
  • Use Energy Star appliances and light fixtures as well as CFL bulbs.
  • Consider solar water heating and/or solar electric power (photovoltaic).
• Water Efficiency
  
  • Use low-flow water fixtures and toilets.
  • Collect rainwater for reuse on landscaping using above or below-grade storage.
  • Consider irrigation controls for landscaping.
  • Consider greywater reuse from sinks and showers (as permitted by code).
• Indoor Environmental Quality
  
  • Ensure tight seals between garage and living area.
  • Design for isolated mechanical room.
  • Provide mechanical ventilation and/or humidification controls.
  • Consider heat recovery ventilators (HRV) or energy recovery ventilators (ERV).
  • Use timed exhaust fans for high moisture areas.
  • Install direct-vent or sealed-combustion gas fireplaces.
  • Use low-VOC paints, finishes and wallpapers.
  • Use low-formaldehyde plywood and fiberboard.

Remember: Green Building is not just about materials. It’s also about method, perspective, and intention. What worked yesterday might not work today. And what works today, might be improved upon tomorrow. But certainly, we must start now!

Please contact our office to see our work. You can reach us by phone at 828-963-8090, email us, or use our online information request form to let us know how we can serve you!