Energy Efficient Homes a Priority at Mill Creek in Geneva

Geneva, IL, December 09, 2015 --(PR.com)-- Many of today’s homebuyers incorrectly assume that because they are building a new home that it will be an energy-efficient structure. There are varying degrees of energy efficiency offered and it is important to carefully review them as they play a major role in home comfort and utility bills.

While many home builders are embracing energy efficiency, few are exceeding the standards set forth in the Illinois 2012 Energy Code; the latest established standards. While older homes do tend to cost less up front they are also less energy efficient. By building new and paying a little more for a new home that is energy efficient, the homeowner saves in the long run on energy and maintenance costs.

According to Lantz Rakow, president of D & H Energy Management (Huntley, IL) the Illinois Energy Code has changed the way homes are built. Rakow; an independent energy rater and consultant for many Chicago area home builders, has tracked over two hundred homes for Shodeen Homes since 2010 and has helped them with HERS (Home Energy Rating System developed by the Residential Energy Services Network or RESNET) scores projected to be in the high 50s to the low 60s. According to RESNET, a confirmed rating on a home within this score range would deliver a home that is approximately 40 percent more energy efficient than a standard new home and nearly 70 percent more efficient than an average existing resale home.

“Energy modeling is initially based on the blueprints for a home. The characteristics of a specific home including the insulation levels of ceilings, walls, and the foundation, window and door ratings, estimated air infiltration and the heating and cooling system design and efficiency are then input into licensed software that calculates energy loads for all components of the enclosure,” said Rakow.

"The HERS score is the industry standard by which a home’s energy efficiency is measured. Builders use projected HERS score to market their homes and allow potential home buyers a way to compare their homes energy efficiency with other builders in the area.”

Shodeen Homes continually revises home specifications in order to achieve these coveted HERS scores. According to Craig Shodeen, President of Shodeen Homes, “We have implemented these energy changes as standard inclusions – not options. Most builders include foam pillow insulation 4’ down to meet the code. We provide a partially finished basement with framed basement walls that are fully insulated with R19. The basement is actually finish-ready for electric and drywall.”

Shodeen Homes also uses spray applied foam insulation in the rim joists of their homes which is critical in reducing air infiltration levels and ensuring a comfortable home. Shodeen Homes also utilizes expandable foam to seal windows, doors and exterior electric receptacles where significant air infiltration can otherwise be found. “This eliminates many customer call-backs and concerns due to drafts. These details make the home quieter and much more comfortable,” added Shodeen.

They use Anderson Low-E, Argon filled insulated glass windows, a Power Vent efficient 50-gallon water heater and 92% efficient furnace with an outside air intake. According to Shodeen each home is independently tested and certified by a qualified energy rater. Each home receives a confirmed HERS score prior to the home owner moving in.

Besides 20 move-in ready homes, Shodeen offers multiple floor plans in the three remaining neighborhoods within Mill Creek and also designs and builds custom homes through Sjodin Custom Homes. Mill Creek homes range in size from 1,835 up to over 4,000 square feet. Base prices start from the low $300s to over a million dollars for custom homes (all prices subject to change without notice).

Mill Creek offers a pool/clubhouse, on-site schools and retailers, among its quality-built homes spread across 25 different neighborhoods. Additionally, Mill Creek is graced with 900 acres of mature trees, lakes and ponds, scenic landscaping and lush grasslands.

But beyond the community’s built-in natural attractions, Mill Creek homeowners relish many perks that come with being residents. Among these are two premier golf courses, the Mill Creek Golf Club and Tanna Farms Golf Club; a Village Center offering convenient on-site retailers, such as the Mill Creek Market, dry cleaners and a dentist. Geneva boasts highly ranked schools for children to attend within Geneva Community Unit School District #304.

Shodeen Homes provides these energy features at all of its new home communities: Seventh Street Terrace Townhomes in downtown Geneva, IL; Blackberry Creek and Elburn Station in Elburn; Reston Ponds in Sycamore and at The Row Homes of Fontana in Fontana, WI. Sjodin Custom Homes takes the Shodeen standards to an even higher level with Energy Star Certification.

To reach the Mill Creek Sales and Design Center at 0N305 N. Mill Creek Drive, take Randall Road to Fabyan Parkway; head west on Fabyan to Mill Creek Drive; turn North onto Mill Creek Drive and follow the signs north straight to the sales center. For more information call 630-232-8181. E-mail info@shodeenhomes.com or visit www.ShodeenHomes.com.

Image caption: Shodeen Homes also uses spray applied foam insulation in the rim joists of their homes which is critical in reducing air infiltration levels and ensuring a comfortable home. “This eliminates many customer call-backs and concerns due to drafts. These details make the home quieter and much more comfortable,” says Craig Shodeen.