Energy Efficiency

A blower-door and duct blaster test is performed on each and every new Ivey home by an independent third party to measure air flow throughout the home as well as the effectiveness of the duct sealing. Energy efficiency is calculated based on the overall air tightness of the home, the efficiency of the ducts combined with the performance characteristics of the features listed above.

Actual energy costs will vary depending on individual usage habits, the number of residents in the home and fluctuation in rates by your utility company.

The HERS (Home Energy Rating Systems) rating provides a standardized evaluation of a home's energy efficiency and expected energy savings: the lower the HERS rating, the more energy efficient the home. The typical new code-built home has a HERS rating of 100. A home with a score of 75 would be 25% more energy-efficient than a new code-built home. The rating is calculated by an independent third party who inspects and rates each and every new Ivey home.

The HERS index allows comparison of new code-built homes as well as existing homes. IveyWise, developed exclusively for Ivey Homes is a recognized program that focuses on building techniques, materials, and features of the home to be more energy-efficient. HERS index score is based on a variety of factors that are particular to that house and homesite and are administered by a third-party energy rater. 

Yes. The IveyWise features are considered "standard" and are included in the base price of every new Ivey home.

Some builders may offer a handful of features Ivey has included in IveyWise, but Ivey was the first builder in the Augusta area to develop a complete energy-efficient focused program that includes advanced framing for better insulation installation that benefits the homeowner for years to come. 

Radiant barrier roof sheathing is made up of highly-reflective material and is installed in the attic. It reflects up to 97% of the sun's radiant heat, thereby lowering attic temperatures and improving energy efficiency.

With traditional framing, the 3-stud outside corner space and exterior/interior wall intersections are boxed in and cannot easily be insulated, resulting in energy loss.

With “Advanced Framing", a "California Corner" is a simple L-shape corner that allows easy access to install insulation in the corners and “Ladder T’s” provide a better intersection that allows for continuous insulation, reducing air flow throughout the structure resulting in greater savings on heating and cooling costs.

IveyWise homes include low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) paint, carpet, and hardwood floor glue. VOCs react with other elements to produce ozone, which causes air pollution and a host of health issues. Air barriers and air sealing isolate living areas from fumes, contaminants, or allergens that might come through the attic or walls.

Air leakage is the single biggest loss of energy in a home. Ivey homes include extensive air barriers to seal gaps and block random air movement through the new home. Air sealing controls moisture, prevents dirt and pollen from leaking inside the home, and reduces air flow throughout the home, thereby increasing indoor air quality and energy efficiency.

Ivey Homes has partnered with Sozo Energy, LLC s as its HERS Rater. In addition to rating the house, Sozo Energy, LLC  provides a third party guarantee for heating and cooling energy usage.