A Typical Household's Energy Consumption
Source: U.S. Dept. of Energy

How can a Green Grove Builders home save me money?
By using the highest quality materials (ex. insulation, windows, lighting, and HVAC) with proper installation along with many energy efficient techniques, your home is built to save energy which saves you money.

What design and building features come standard in a Green Grove Builders home?
Standard design features are real hardwood, tile, carpet, custom cabinets, granite kitchen countertops, and crown molding. Standard building features are bio based soy foam insulation, low-e windows, properly sized HVAC systems, low flow water features, compact fluorescent bulbs, hot water heater blankets, and insulated water pipes. The home owner can decide to choose different features if desired. Please see our features and benefits page for more information.

Why don't you use bamboo flooring?
While bamboo is a renewable resource and can be used in a custom Green Grove Builders home, it is not standard. Bamboo floors currently are very soft, hence easily damaged by falling items, some furniture, and some types of shoes.

Do I pick a house plan, or do I have to use a certain plan for an energy efficient home?
Green Grove Builders can make any home plan energy efficient. We can work with what you already have, or help you find one.

What if I can't find a plan that has everything I want, or I want changes made?
Green Grove Builders has an experienced draftsman that can create or modify any plan.

Why should I use Green Grove Builders?
We are experienced in building these types of homes and know how these technologies work. John Upthegrove, president of Green Grove Builders is a licensed contractor who has been working with energy efficiency and green technologies throughout his career. We stay current on new trends and applications while researching to find which ones work. Please see our features and benefits page for more information.

Average Monthly Costs of Air Conditioning
Source: Energy Information Administration

• Caulk around the inside and outside of all doors and windows.
• Use weatherstripping around doors, to make sure there is a tight seal between door and frame.
• Test your home for air leaks on a windy day. Next to common sources of air leaks, hold a lit incense stick nearby. If smoke travels horizontally, you have an air leak that may need caulking, weatherstripping, or sealing.
• Check your ducts to see if any have separated, have visible holes, or need insulation.
• Clean or replace air filters once a month.
• Keeping your thermostat at 72 degrees in the summer, 68 degrees in the winter, can save up to 10% on your heating and cooling bill.