Atlanta Renovation
The St. Louis Residence
Winner of the 2011 OBIE Award for Best Green Renovation
and featured in the January 2012 issue of Atlanta Home Improvement!
Atlanta Renovation designed by Kuo Diedrich and built by Cablik Enterprises.
Cablik Enterprises performed an Atlanta renovation to Earthcraft standards, to this home in the historic Atkins Park neighborhood of Atlanta. The intent of the EarthCraft renovation is to provide an energy-efficient, healthy, and durable home.
The goal of this Atlanta renovation was to add a full master suite in the abundant unused attic space. The plans included an office space, master bedroom, two large walk in closets, large master bath with separate vanities, commode, large shower, and claw foot tub.
Cablik Enterprises performed the following work for this Atlanta renovation:
* Achieved approval from Urban Design Commission for exterior alterations.
* Constructed new open staircase from first floor to new second floor.
* Installed new floor framing and sound insulation at second floor level.
* Installed open cell spray foam insulation across the entire roof line for a complete envelope.
* Installed larger windows and skylights for increased day lighting.
* Converted first floor mudroom entry into finished breakfast nook.
* Provided custom built in storage under stair landing and in master bedroom.
* Installed natural oak floors, glass, and ceramic tiles throughout new space.
* Matched existing trim details for a seamless integration.
The home, built in 1920, featured single pane windows and insufficient loose fill insulation in the attic floor. The home’s heating and cooling systems were insufficient to meet the demand created by the house. Large amounts of air leakage were identified from various places in the home.
Cablik Enterprises took the following steps during the Atlanta renovation to achieve EarthCraft certification:
* Reinsulated ducts to R-6.
* Removed humidifier.
* Added new HVAC MERV filter for cleaner air and easier exchange.
* Insulated water pipes coming from hot water heater.
* Air sealed all accesses.
* Directed all bath fan exhausts to exterior.
* Installed low-flow showerheads.
* Checked sealing on all exterior doors.
* Installed hard-wired carbon monoxide detectors with battery backup.
* Used low-VOC paints, stains, and finishes and formaldehyde-free shelving and trim.
* Recycled construction waste.
* Insulated attic roof line and second floor walls with open cell spray foam insulation.
As a result of the Earthcraft renovation:
* Air leakage to the outside of the home improved from 0.85 to less than 0.50 air changes per hour
* Reduced duct leakage from 29% to less than 10%
* This project achieved 22 points over the required 120 points to achieve EarthCraft Renovation Certification.
