DPD Technical Briefs
We plan to produce a series of technical briefs on residential design strategies and technologies. Current topics include:

• Solar electric systems:  Learn about photovoltaic (solar electric) systems and find code-related information in this DPD Client Assistance Memo (CAM #420). This resource also includes links to valuable technical information on sizing a solar electric system and finding a contractor.
• Solar water heating: One-fifth of a typical Seattle home’s energy budget is spent heating water. Learn how solar hot water systems can help save money on water heating costs, while lessening a home’s impact on the environment, and how federal tax incentives and recent state sales tax exemptions can help shorten their already-quick (often less than 10 years) payback. 

Other Sources of Technical Briefs

• Advanced wall framing: By placing 2x6 studs 24 inches on center rather than the conventional 16 inches uses less wood and allows more room for insulation, increasing the thermal performance of your home. Information provided by Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy.
• Airtight drywall approach: Careful sealing of drywall during installation can improve your home's energy efficiency by eliminating air leaks and uncomfortable drafts. Information from the Southface institute in Atlanta, Georgia.
• Pervious paving: Paving alternatives that allow rain to seep into the ground rather than entering the storm water system help retain and restore natural hydrologic cycles and help protect our urban creeks, bays, lakes and Puget Sound. Information from the Puget Sound Action Team.
• Plastic and plastic composite deck lumber:  Recycled-content plastic and plastic composite decking is a nontoxic, low maintenance alternative to wood deck materials. This fact sheet from the Austin, Texas green building program explains the materials.
• Rain gardens: Like pervious paving, rain gardens help keep rainwater on site. They also provide a visual amenity for your yard. This resource is tailored to a Wisconsin audience but is generally applicable. For help with rain gardens in Seattle, contact the Natural Lawn and Garden hotline.
• Rain screen siding (drainage plane): This construction detail helps reduce damage to a home's sheathing and reduces moisture intrusion. Fact sheet from the National Association of Home Builders.
• Tubular skylights: Also called "light tubes," these alternatives to conventional skylights provide natural light to a room with a fraction of the unwanted heat loss and gain. Information from the National Association of Home Builders.

Questions/Suggestions?
If you have questions or suggestions for future technical brief topics, contact our Residential Expert, Sandra.Mallory@seattle.gov.