Guidelines for builders

Suggested guidelines for builders in Towns County, Georgia, to improve energy efficiency and preserve the environment.

1) Consult with the Plant Rescue Team of Blairsville - 706-745-9317 - prior to clearing the building site in order to identify, and move if necessary, valuable plant species.

2) Consider U.S. Department of Energy recommendations such as overhangs, maximizing south-facing glass with thermal mass (e.g. tile floors) for heat storage, etc.

3) Calculate the long-term savings afforded by solar panels and other energy saving devices.

4) Design all buildings with dimensions in increments of 2 feet, thus saving the estimated 16% waste of discarded ends.

5) Use rigid insulation board instead of plywood, wherever possible.

6) Use 2" x 6" studs to allow for 24" centers and added insulation in walls.

7) Promote energy saving use of lighting, such as compact fluorescent lamps instead of incandescent bulbs.

8) Have building material waste taken to Blairsville for recycling.