Limestone Builders Inc. designs each home with Energy Efficiency in mind.  The Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Index is the industry standard by which a home’s energy efficiency is measured. It’s also the nationally recognized system used to inspect and calculate a home’s energy performance.

How does the HERS index work?

At Limestone Builders Inc., we work with a certified energy rater who calculates the homes’ HERS Index Score by analyzing plans prior to construction, inspecting the home for proper energy saving technics and conducting air flow test on the home upon completion.  This information is then compared to a reference home (an imaginary home of the same shape and size). Thus the score is always relative to a house similar in size and shape of the house you live in.

The Energy Rate pays close attention to the following area:

• All exterior walls, foundations, roofs
• Floors over unconditioned spaces (garages/crawls spaces)
• Ceilings and attics
• Windows and doors
• HVAC systems, vents, ductwork, water heating systems and thermostats.

This information is then compared to a reference home (an imaginary home of the same shape and size). Thus the score is always relative to a house similar in size and shape of the house you live in.

What does a HERS rating say about a house?

The HERS rating tells you how efficient your home is operating. By reviewing the HERS rating you will be able to anticipate energy bills on a home, the lower the HERS rating the more efficient you home, the lower your energy costs will be on the home.  The U. S Department of Energy has determined that a typical resale home has a HERS rating of 130 on the HERS index while a new home built to todays standards has a rating of 100 on the HERS index.  A home that receives a 70 on the HERS index is 30% more efficient than a standard new home.