Green Living
Since our company's inception, we've cared about the community and the environment. In 2000 we began our journey into the world of building science, which dramatically changed our approach to enclosures. In 2003, we brought together industry stakeholders with a grant from the MPCA (MN Pollution Control Agency) to create MN GreenStar; our state's residential green building and remodeling program. Championed by the Builders Association, the Remodelers Association, the Green Institute, The Heart Association, and the PCA, we trained thousands of builders, designers, and architects over the following years. Industry adoption of green building practices was widespread, and MN continues to lead the country in adopting better building techniques.
Michael teaches and trains around the country on building performance and best green building practices. He has worked with DOE as part of the U of M's Northstar team researching foundation walls and published OA's basement finishing system. In 2016 the development of the Awesome Wall led to the long term collaboration with ProTradeCraft.com where OA's best practices have been animated and instructional videos created for the entire building industry's benefit.
OA's commitment to Green living and Green building is present in every project. Starting with the materials we use: certified lumber, NAUF cabinetry, Ultra-low VOC finishes, PVC and composite decking, resilient siding, metal roofing, remnant granite, and responsible and performance driven insulation (Zero GWP CCSPF, Low or Zero GWP XPS, and mineral wool insulation.
To minimize waste, all debris (except asphalt roofing) generated from the project is sorted through for a roughly 60% landfill diversion. We participate in AZEC's PVC cradle to cradle program which turns scrap PVC trim into new PVC deck)
We install energy efficient heating and cooling systems. Starting with the design of the system utilizing traditional high efficiency furnaces, Mini-splits, heat pumps, geothermal, combi-boilers, and tankless heaters for maximum efficiency and comfort. Radiant floor heating paired with either a ducted or mini-split cooling system and an independent fresh air (ERV) ducted system delivers a healthy and comfortable home.
Advanced framing techniques means we consume less lumber. Better insulation methods means that you need less energy to heat and cool your home. Continuous exterior insulation reduces thermal bridging and improves the overall resilience. In 2016 we pioneered the OA Awesome Wall, an R28 resilient wall assembly with a ventilated rainscreen. A decade later, it is a tried and true strategy for high performance building used around the country.
We feel that building on existing rather than building new is a better practice and is one of the reasons we focus our energies on urban remodeling and construction.
If you are interested in learning more about Green, sustainable, and resilient building and remodeling, give us a call!
LEARN ABOUT GREEN BUILDING
Define Green Building
Green Materials and Practices
Costs of Remodeling Green
10 Tips for Homeowners Who Want to Remodel Green
Green Remodeling Program MPCA Proposal
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