For most of us looking up and seeing green on our roof or plants growing in our gutters we know that serious roofing issues can't be far behind. For the owners of an earth-sheltered home it just means that all is well.
With so much focus in the press on energy conservation, global warming and green design my real estate partner and I have the rare privilege of listing one of the few earth-sheltered homes available in our area. As a result I have spent a good deal of time walking on the roof of the home and learning the benefits of owning one an earth sheltered home.
I've also had to dispel a few myths as well. Is the home dark? Absolutely not, in fact with the high ceilings, front wall of insulated glass and skylights the house is brighter than most of the traditional homes in the area. Does it leak? No, the home is made of poured concrete and has an additional waterproof membrane layer on top which protects better than a standard roof. Are there any issues with mold? Since the home is made of concrete and does not leak the only way mold can grow is if there is build up of condensation. The air handling systems are designed to circulate the air in the home more frequently than a traditional home eliminating the usual causes of mold.
The other top 10 benefits of this home that I have found:
If you are interesting in living in a well designed, energy efficient home consider looking at an earth-sheltered home. You might be surprised at what you see. If you live in the DC area and are interested in purchasing this home then give me a call to discuss the details.
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