ICC 700 National Green Building Standard (NGBS)

The National Green Building Certification (NGBS) is built on the ICC 700-2008 National Green Building Standard™, a comprehensive benchmark for sustainable construction and remodeling. This nationally recognized certification is the only residential green building rating system to complete the full consensus process and achieve approval from the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Its primary objective is to establish a clear and consistent definition of green building practices across the United States.

What Does NGBS Cover?

The NGBS is designed to accommodate diverse residential projects, including:

• Single-family homes

• Multifamily housing

• Residential remodeling

• Site development projects

It ensures flexibility to account for regionally appropriate green practices, while maintaining a robust framework for sustainable building standards.

Five Key Categories of Sustainability

The certification focuses on five pivotal aspects of sustainable construction, each seamlessly integrated into the building process:

1. Energy Efficiency: Optimizing energy use to reduce consumption and lower carbon footprints.

2. Water Conservation: Implementing strategies to conserve water resources, ensuring long-term availability.

3. Resource Efficiency: Promoting the use of sustainable and recycled materials in construction.

4. Indoor Air Quality: Enhancing the health and comfort of occupants through improved ventilation and reduced pollutants.

5. Site Design and Development: Encouraging eco-friendly practices for site selection, preparation, and landscaping.

Achievable Certification Levels

Projects certified under the NGBS can earn one of four distinct certification levels, depending on the extent of their adherence to the Standard:

• Bronze: Entry-level achievement showcasing significant green features.

• Silver: Advanced efforts in sustainable building practices.

• Gold: Exceptional commitment to environmental responsibility.

• Emerald: The highest level, reflecting superior sustainability and energy efficiency.

Why Choose NGBS Certification?

Achieving NGBS certification offers multiple benefits:

• Credibility: As the only ANSI-approved residential green building standard, it guarantees compliance with rigorous industry standards.

• Market Appeal: Certified homes are highly attractive to environmentally conscious buyers and renters.

• Cost Savings: Energy-efficient designs and resource-conserving features translate into lower utility bills for homeowners and tenants.

• Environmental Impact: Supporting sustainable building practices contributes to a healthier planet for future generations.

By choosing NGBS certification, you’re not just meeting the highest standards in sustainable construction—you’re pioneering the future of green living. Whether building new, remodeling, or developing, the NGBS ensures that your project aligns with best practices in sustainability and innovation.

Learn More About Going Green

Explore how your next project can achieve National Green Building Certification and join a growing community committed to environmental stewardship and sustainable living. Contact us today to start your journey toward a certified green future.

U.S. Green Building Council | LEED for Homes Certification Made Simple

At Two Trails, we specialize in simplifying the LEED for Homes certification process, helping your new construction projects achieve the highest sustainability standards while minimizing costs. As experts in the unique requirements of this residential-focused LEED track, we ensure a smooth, cost-efficient certification journey from start to finish.

Why LEED for Homes?

LEED for Homes, developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), is a globally recognized certification program designed to promote sustainability in residential construction. Whether for single-family homes, multifamily buildings, or affordable housing projects, this certification demonstrates your commitment to energy efficiency, healthy indoor environments, and sustainable construction practices.

How Two Trails Supports Your Project

Our approach is designed to streamline the certification process, reduce administrative burdens, and deliver value at every stage. Here's how we help:

1. Guidance Through a Unique Process

The LEED for Homes certification process differs from other LEED tracks. We bring clarity and expertise, ensuring compliance with the specific requirements of this program.

2. Comprehensive Services

We offer a suite of services to support your certification:

• HERS Testing and Verification: Ensuring your project meets stringent energy efficiency standards.

• Energy Modeling: Providing data-driven insights to optimize energy performance.

• LEED Green Rater Services: Facilitating the inspection and verification process to meet LEED requirements.

3. Cost Efficiency

Our expertise helps reduce soft costs associated with certification, ensuring your project achieves its goals without exceeding budget constraints. We focus on what makes sense for both your project’s sustainability and financial goals.

4. End-to-End LEED Administration

From the design phase to project completion, we handle all aspects of LEED administration, allowing you to focus on your construction while we manage the certification details.

Why Choose Two Trails?

• Proven Expertise: With years of experience in sustainable construction and LEED certifications, we bring unmatched knowledge to your project.

• Tailored Solutions: We customize our approach to align with your project’s unique goals and budget.

• Commitment to Excellence: We strive to help your project achieve the highest possible LEED rating, whether it’s Certified, Silver, Gold, or Platinum.

Benefits of LEED for Homes Certification

Achieving LEED for Homes certification with Two Trails provides:

• Enhanced Marketability: Green-certified homes are highly attractive to environmentally conscious buyers and renters.

• Energy and Cost Savings: Efficient designs lead to lower utility bills for homeowners.

• Environmental Impact: Reducing your project’s carbon footprint helps contribute to a more sustainable future.

• Healthier Living Environments: Improved indoor air quality and sustainable building materials create healthier spaces for occupants.

Take the First Step Toward Sustainability

Partner with Two Trails to ensure your project not only meets but exceeds the requirements for LEED for Homes Certification. Let us guide you through the process with expert advice, proven strategies, and a commitment to your success.

Contact us today to learn how we can bring your vision of a sustainable residential project to life.

Green Globes Certification: A Tailored Path to Sustainable Excellence

The Green Globes certification program offers a flexible, personalized approach to sustainable building and operations. Unlike one-size-fits-all solutions, Green Globes emphasizes collaboration and customization, empowering building owners and facility managers to achieve their unique sustainability goals.

At Two Trails, we serve as trusted third-party assessors, facilitating a seamless certification process. Whether you're an experienced green building professional or new to sustainable practices, our guidance ensures your team’s expertise shines while simplifying the process for first-time participants.

Why Choose Green Globes Certification?

Green Globes is designed to respect and leverage the intimate knowledge building owners and managers have about their facilities. By providing tailored support, it enables the integration of best practices in sustainable design, construction, and operations, all while delivering measurable benefits.

Key Benefits of Green Globes Certification:

1. Reduce Operating Costs
   Sustainable practices lead to significant savings through energy efficiency, waste reduction, and optimized resource usage.

2. Qualify for Tax Incentives and Utility Rebates
   Leverage Green Globes certification to access financial benefits that offset upfront investment costs.

3. Meet Government Regulations
   Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal sustainability mandates, avoiding penalties and enhancing reputation.

4. Attract and Retain Employees
   Sustainable, eco-friendly buildings improve occupant comfort and promote healthier working environments, fostering employee satisfaction and retention.

5. Increase Property Marketability
   Certification enhances the appeal of your property to eco-conscious tenants, buyers, and investors, adding long-term value.

Two Trails: Your Green Globes Partner

Incorporating Two Trails as your third-party assessor brings unparalleled value to your certification journey:

• Streamlined Process: We reduce the complexity of certification, guiding you through each step with clarity and efficiency.

• Tailored Strategies: We customize recommendations to align with your building’s unique requirements and sustainability goals.

• Seamless Integration: Our expertise minimizes disruption while maximizing results, whether for new construction, renovations, or operational improvements.

The Green Globes Certification Process

1. Pre-Assessment
   Analyze your building’s current performance and identify opportunities for improvement.

2. Custom Recommendations
   Develop strategies that align with your project’s vision while adhering to Green Globes standards.

3. Certification Support
   Guide your team through documentation, audits, and performance evaluations.

Elevate Your Building with Green Globes

Green Globes certification provides more than recognition—it’s a roadmap to a more efficient, sustainable, and marketable property. With Two Trails as your partner, you’ll achieve exceptional results tailored to your building’s needs while enjoying a smooth and supportive certification process.

Contact us today to learn how Green Globes certification can transform your project into a model of sustainable excellence.

HERS Index: A Benchmark for Energy Efficiency

The HERS Index, developed by the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET), is the gold standard for measuring a home's energy efficiency. This scoring system provides homeowners and builders with an easy-to-understand metric for evaluating and comparing energy performance.

What is the HERS Index?

The HERS Index measures how energy efficient a home is compared to a reference home built to the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code. The scale works as follows:

• HERS Index of 100: Matches the energy efficiency of the reference home.

• HERS Index Below 100: Indicates a home that is more energy efficient than the reference home. For instance, a score of 70 means the home is 30% more efficient.

• HERS Index of 0: Represents a net-zero home, where renewable energy generation (e.g., solar panels) offsets all energy consumption.

Each point reduction on the HERS Index corresponds to a 1% improvement in energy efficiency and a 1% reduction in energy consumption. Homes with a lower HERS Index not only reduce energy usage but also lower monthly utility costs, contributing to long-term savings.

Energy Rating Guide: A Powerful Tool for Homeowners

The Building Energy Rating Guide, created after a HERS rating, provides homeowners with a comprehensive overview of their home’s energy performance. This guide functions like an MPG rating for cars, offering valuable insights into energy consumption and efficiency.

What Does the Guide Include?

1. Building Rating Scale

   • Compares the energy efficiency of the rated home to the HERS reference home.

2. Energy Breakdown

   • A bar chart detailing the key sources of energy costs, allowing homeowners to understand where improvements can be made.

3. HERS Index and Star Level

   • Showcases the home’s overall performance, with a 5-Star+ rating being the highest level of efficiency.

4. Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM) Qualification

   • Indicates if the home qualifies for an EEM, which provides financing advantages for energy-efficient properties.

Benefits of the Energy Rating Guide

• Increased Marketability: A low HERS Index sets a home apart in the real estate market by highlighting its superior energy efficiency.

• Lower Ownership Costs: Energy-efficient homes are less expensive to operate, reducing the overall cost of ownership.

• Eco-Friendly Appeal: Demonstrates a commitment to sustainable living, making the property attractive to environmentally conscious buyers.

Why the HERS Index Matters

Investing in energy efficiency through a low HERS Index delivers benefits that go beyond cost savings:

• Environmental Impact: Reduced energy consumption lowers greenhouse gas emissions.

• Home Value: Energy-efficient features and certifications increase property value and desirability.

• Energy Independence: Renewable energy integration, as represented by a HERS Index of 0, reduces reliance on traditional energy sources.

Get Your Home Rated

Partner with Two Trails to achieve a HERS rating that maximizes your home’s energy efficiency and market appeal. Our team of experts provides comprehensive testing and certification services, ensuring your property meets and exceeds energy efficiency standards.

Contact us today to learn more about the HERS Index and how it can transform your home into a model of sustainability and cost savings.

ENERGY STAR® Certified Homes: Efficiency, Comfort, and Environmental Responsibility

ENERGY STAR® certified homes are designed to meet the strict energy performance standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These homes are at least 15% more energy-efficient than those built to the 2004 International Residential Code (IRC), offering homeowners significant savings on utilities, enhanced comfort, and a reduced environmental footprint.

Why Choose ENERGY STAR Certified Homes?

Homebuyers increasingly prefer ENERGY STAR homes for their long-term benefits:

1. Lower Utility Bills: Advanced energy-efficient systems and materials reduce energy consumption, saving homeowners money month after month.

2. Enhanced Comfort: Improved insulation, air sealing, and ventilation create a consistent, comfortable indoor environment.

3. Environmental Impact: By reducing greenhouse gas emissions, ENERGY STAR homes contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future.

4. Third-Party Verification: ENERGY STAR homes are independently inspected and verified to meet rigorous program requirements.

Two Trails: Your ENERGY STAR Certification Partner

At Two Trails, we are proud to be a nationally certified Home Energy Rating company, offering a comprehensive suite of services to support builders and homeowners in achieving ENERGY STAR certification. Our expertise ensures your project meets the highest energy performance standards while delivering unparalleled value to your home.

Our ENERGY STAR Services:

• ENERGY STAR Certification for New Homes: Helping builders and developers bring energy-efficient homes to market with confidence.

• HERS Provider Services: Providing Home Energy Rating System (HERS) testing and guidance to improve energy efficiency.

• LEED for Homes Provider: Extending sustainable solutions for homes seeking multiple certifications.

The ENERGY STAR Advantage

Certified homes not only provide immediate benefits but also create long-term value:

• Market Appeal: ENERGY STAR certification is a recognized and trusted brand, making your home more desirable to eco-conscious buyers.

• Quality Assurance: Third-party verification ensures compliance with rigorous energy efficiency standards, providing peace of mind for homeowners.

• Government-Backed Confidence: As a program supported by the EPA, ENERGY STAR certification signals credibility and reliability.

What Makes ENERGY STAR Homes Different?

1. Advanced Insulation: Keeps homes warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

2. Efficient HVAC Systems: Delivers superior performance while using less energy.

3. High-Performance Windows: Reduces heat loss and gain for better comfort and lower costs.

4. Comprehensive Air Sealing: Prevents drafts and maintains indoor air quality.

5. Energy-Efficient Lighting and Appliances: Reduces energy use without compromising performance.

Build a Sustainable Future with Two Trails

By partnering with Two Trails, you gain access to industry-leading expertise in ENERGY STAR certification and sustainable building practices. We work closely with builders, developers, and homeowners to streamline the certification process, ensuring your home meets and exceeds the program’s stringent standards.

Take the First Step Today

Whether you're building new or retrofitting an existing property, ENERGY STAR certification is your pathway to energy savings, comfort, and environmental stewardship. Contact us today to learn how Two Trails can help you achieve ENERGY STAR certification and transform your home into a model of energy efficiency.

Florida Water Star Certification: Championing Water Efficiency and Sustainability

The Florida Water Star program is a voluntary certification initiative aimed at promoting water efficiency and conservation in new residential and commercial construction as well as existing home renovations. By implementing sustainable water management practices, the program not only reduces water consumption but also improves water quality through best management landscaping practices.

Why Choose Florida Water Star Certification?

The Florida Water Star program provides a framework for homes and commercial properties to achieve significant water and energy savings. Here's why it's a smart choice for your property:

1. Significant Water Savings: Certified homes and properties can save up to 20% annually on water usage, lowering utility costs and conserving valuable natural resources.

2. Broad Applicability: Standards apply to various property types, from condominiums with no yard to older homes with large lots and aging irrigation systems.

3. Cost Savings for Commercial Properties: Businesses benefit from reduced water and energy bills, leading to lower operational costs and improved bottom lines.

4. Environmental Stewardship: Supports responsible water management, helping protect Florida’s ecosystems and water resources.

Certification Standards for Sustainability

The Florida Water Star program focuses on several key areas of water efficiency and sustainability:

1. Appliances and Plumbing Fixtures

   • Encourages the use of water-efficient appliances and low-flow fixtures to reduce indoor water consumption.

2. Irrigation Systems

   • Promotes efficient irrigation designs, including weather-based controllers and micro-irrigation techniques, to minimize water waste.

3. Landscapes and Best Management Practices (BMPs)

   • Advocates for Florida-friendly landscaping practices, including drought-tolerant plants and efficient fertilizer usage, improving water quality and reducing runoff.

4. Water Quality Improvements

   • Implements strategies to manage and maintain high water quality, ensuring sustainable landscaping and reduced environmental impact.

Benefits of Florida Water Star Certification

Certified properties enjoy a wide range of advantages:

• Lower Utility Bills: Reduced water and energy consumption translates into immediate cost savings for homeowners and businesses.

• Increased Property Value: Sustainable features add market appeal, attracting eco-conscious buyers and tenants.

• Compliance and Incentives: Certification may qualify properties for local incentives or rebates, further offsetting costs.

• Environmental Impact: Conserving water resources contributes to a healthier environment and a more sustainable future.

Florida Water Star and Two Trails: A Winning Partnership

At Two Trails, we provide expert guidance to help homeowners, developers, and commercial property managers achieve Florida Water Star certification. Our comprehensive services ensure a seamless certification process while maximizing the sustainability and efficiency of your property.

Why Work With Two Trails?

• Expert Knowledge: Decades of experience in sustainable building and certifications ensure you receive top-tier guidance.

• Tailored Solutions: Customized strategies to meet the unique needs of your property, whether residential or commercial.

• Seamless Process: From design to certification, we handle the details, so you can focus on your project.

Start Saving Water Today

The Florida Water Star program is a cost-effective, environmentally responsible way to lower water usage, reduce expenses, and add value to your property. Partner with Two Trails to ensure your project meets the highest standards in water efficiency and sustainability.

Contact us today to learn how we can guide your property toward Florida Water Star certification and a future of water-wise living.

Blower Door / Envelope Testing Certification: Ensuring Compliance and Energy Efficiency in Florida

Effective July 1, 2017, the Florida Building Code, Energy Conservation Version 5, mandated air infiltration testing—commonly referred to as blower door testing—for all newly constructed homes and residential units in the state. This critical step ensures compliance with energy efficiency standards, reducing energy waste and promoting more sustainable homes.

What is Blower Door Testing?

Blower door testing measures the airtightness of a building’s envelope. It identifies air leaks and ensures the home meets energy efficiency requirements by controlling unwanted air infiltration and improving HVAC system performance.

Who Can Perform Blower Door Testing in Florida?

According to Sections R402.4.1.2 and R104.5 of the Florida Building Code, blower door tests must be conducted by an approved third party Energy Auditor or Energy Rater. To qualify, these professionals must hold certification from:

• The Building Performance Institute (BPI)

• The Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET)

Two Trails: Certified Blower Door Testing Experts

At Two Trails, we are a certified third-party provider of blower door testing, offering expert services to ensure your residential property meets Florida’s rigorous energy conservation standards. Our team is certified by both BPI and RESNET, guaranteeing a thorough and accurate assessment for your new construction project.

Why Blower Door Testing is Essential

1. Compliance with Florida Building Code

   • A blower door test is mandatory for homes permitted after July 1, 2017 to meet the state’s energy efficiency requirements.

2. Improved Energy Efficiency

   • Ensures homes are built with a tightly sealed envelope, reducing energy waste and enhancing HVAC system performance.

3. Lower Utility Bills

   • Airtight homes consume less energy for heating and cooling, leading to significant cost savings over time.

4. Enhanced Comfort

   • Identifies and eliminates drafts, providing a more consistent indoor temperature and improved comfort for occupants.

5. Environmental Impact

   • Reduced energy consumption lowers greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a more sustainable environment.

The Two Trails Advantage

• Certified Expertise: Our team is certified by BPI and RESNET, meeting all requirements to conduct blower door testing in Florida.

• Comprehensive Testing: We use state-of-the-art equipment and methodologies to deliver precise and reliable results.

• Hassle-Free Process: From scheduling to documentation, we handle the entire process, ensuring compliance with local codes and regulations.

• Industry Experience: With years of experience in energy efficiency and building performance, we provide trusted guidance for residential projects of all sizes.

How Blower Door Testing Works

1. Preparation

   • We seal all exterior openings and install a specialized fan to pressurize or depressurize the home.

2. Testing

   • The blower door fan creates a pressure difference, allowing us to measure air leakage and pinpoint areas that need improvement.

3. Results and Reporting

   • A detailed report is provided, indicating the home’s air leakage rate and any recommendations for improvement, ensuring it meets Florida code requirements.

Partner with Two Trails for Compliance and Efficiency

Whether you're a builder, contractor, or homeowner, blower door testing is a critical step in ensuring your residential property complies with Florida’s energy code. At Two Trails, we deliver certified testing services with precision, reliability, and efficiency.

Contact us today to schedule your blower door test and take the first step toward energy efficiency, cost savings, and compliance.

Indoor airPLUS Certification: Building Healthier Homes with Improved Indoor Air Quality

The Indoor airPLUS certification, developed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), empowers builders to meet growing consumer demand for homes with superior indoor air quality. This program provides additional construction specifications that go beyond standard building practices to create healthier, more comfortable living environments.

Why Indoor airPLUS Certification Matters

Indoor air quality has become a top priority for homebuyers, as poor air quality can lead to health issues, discomfort, and increased energy costs. Indoor airPLUS-certified homes are designed to reduce exposure to airborne pollutants, allergens, and moisture-related problems, offering long-term benefits for occupants.

Key Features of Indoor airPLUS Certification

The certification is built on a foundation of advanced construction specifications, ensuring healthier indoor environments. These include:

1. Moisture Control Systems

   • Prevent mold growth and reduce moisture-related issues by using effective water drainage systems, proper roofing materials, and vapor barriers.

2. Enhanced HVAC Systems

   • High-performance heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning systems ensure proper air filtration, ventilation, and humidity control.

3. Combustion-Venting Systems

   • Reduce risks associated with carbon monoxide exposure by requiring properly vented combustion appliances and sealed combustion systems.

4. Radon-Resistant Construction

   • Mitigates radon infiltration through sealed foundations and passive venting systems in areas with elevated radon risk.

5. Low-Emitting Building Materials

   • Limits indoor air pollution by utilizing paints, adhesives, and flooring materials with low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Benefits of Indoor airPLUS Certified Homes

1. Healthier Living Spaces

   • Minimizes exposure to allergens, pollutants, and harmful gases, promoting better respiratory health and overall well-being.

2. Increased Comfort

   • Improves air quality, temperature consistency, and humidity control for a more enjoyable living environment.

3. Energy Efficiency

   • Works in conjunction with ENERGY STAR® to deliver energy-efficient homes that save on utility costs while maintaining superior indoor air quality.

4. Market Appeal

   • Indoor airPLUS certification adds value to homes, making them more attractive to health-conscious buyers.

5. Environmental Responsibility

   • Reduces a home's environmental impact by promoting sustainable construction practices and materials.

Why Choose Two Trails for Indoor airPLUS Certification?

At Two Trails, we specialize in helping builders and developers achieve Indoor airPLUS certification efficiently and effectively. With our expertise in sustainable building practices, we ensure your project meets the program’s stringent requirements while delivering added value to your homes.

Our Indoor airPLUS Services:

• Guidance on construction specifications to improve indoor air quality.

• Coordination with ENERGY STAR certification for seamless compliance.

• Inspections and verifications to ensure program standards are met.

• Expert advice on selecting low-emitting materials and systems.

Build Healthier Homes with Indoor airPLUS

Indoor airPLUS certification is a step toward a healthier, more sustainable future for homeowners. By incorporating advanced construction practices, you not only enhance the quality of life for your buyers but also gain a competitive edge in the housing market.

Contact Two Trails today to learn how Indoor airPLUS certification can elevate your next residential project and help you deliver homes that stand out for their quality, comfort, and health-focused design.

Energy Audit: Optimize Your Home's Energy Efficiency

An energy audit, also referred to as an energy assessment or survey, is a vital step for homeowners looking to improve energy efficiency, lower utility costs, and create a more comfortable living environment. This process provides detailed insights into how energy is used in your home and identifies areas for improvement.

What is an Energy Audit?

An energy audit involves a comprehensive evaluation of your home's energy performance. A certified HERS Home Energy Auditor uses advanced diagnostic tools to assess key areas, uncover inefficiencies, and recommend targeted solutions.

Specialized Equipment Used:

1. Blower Doors

   • Measure air leaks and assess the tightness of your home's building envelope.

2. Infrared Cameras

   • Detect areas of air infiltration and missing insulation that are invisible to the naked eye.

3. Duct Leakage Testers

   • Identify leaks in HVAC duct systems that can waste energy and compromise indoor air quality.

Benefits of an Energy Audit

An energy audit offers a variety of benefits for homeowners:

1. Lower Energy Bills

   • Discover inefficiencies and implement cost-effective solutions to reduce energy consumption.

2. Improved Comfort

   • Eliminate drafts and achieve consistent indoor temperatures year-round.

3. Environmental Impact

   • Reduce your home's carbon footprint by optimizing energy use.

4. Increased Home Value

   • Energy-efficient homes are more attractive to potential buyers, offering a competitive edge in the real estate market.

5. Utility Rebates and Incentives

   • Many energy upgrades identified in an audit may qualify for local rebates and tax incentives.

What Does an Energy Audit Include?

A typical energy audit performed by a certified professional will assess:

• Air leakage and insulation levels

• Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) efficiency

• Energy usage patterns for lighting and appliances

• Window and door performance

• Renewable energy opportunities, such as solar panel integration

At the conclusion of the audit, you’ll receive a detailed report with actionable recommendations tailored to your home’s needs.

Why Choose Two Trails for Your Energy Audit?

At Two Trails, we provide expert energy auditing services designed to maximize your home’s efficiency and comfort. Here’s why homeowners trust us:

• Certified Expertise: Our auditors are certified through recognized organizations, ensuring accurate and reliable assessments.

• Advanced Tools: We use state-of-the-art equipment to deliver precise evaluations.

• Tailored Solutions: Recommendations are customized to your home, your goals, and your budget.

• Comprehensive Approach: We go beyond identifying issues to offer guidance on implementing energy-saving improvements.

Start Saving Energy Today

An energy audit is your first step toward a more energy-efficient and cost-effective home. Whether you're planning to upgrade insulation, seal air leaks, or invest in renewable energy, a professional assessment ensures you focus on the areas that deliver the greatest impact.

Contact Two Trails today to schedule your energy audit and take control of your home's energy performance. Experience the benefits of lower bills, improved comfort, and a greener future.

Florida Green Building Coalition (FGBC): Advancing Sustainability in Florida’s Built Environment

The Florida Green Building Coalition (FGBC) is a nonprofit organization committed to improving the built environment by promoting sustainability through regionally focused education and certification programs. FGBC certifications are tailored to Florida’s unique climate and environmental challenges, offering practical, meaningful solutions for builders, developers, and homeowners who are passionate about creating greener, more sustainable communities.

What Sets FGBC Apart?

Unlike national certification programs, FGBC takes a localized approach by addressing Florida’s distinctive climate, ecosystems, and building practices. This ensures that every certified project delivers environmental, economic, and social benefits specifically designed for Florida’s diverse regions.

Key Features of FGBC Certification:

1. Regional Relevance

   • Certification standards are developed with Florida’s climate in mind, ensuring optimal performance for energy efficiency, water conservation, and storm resilience.

2. Clear and Meaningful Principles

   • The program is built on well-defined standards that provide transparency and credibility to "green" qualifications and marketing efforts.

3. Comprehensive Benefits

   • FGBC certifications focus on the triple bottom line: environmental conservation, economic efficiency, and improved social outcomes.

4. Educational Programs

   • FGBC emphasizes education through workshops, resources, and training to empower builders and homeowners with the knowledge to create and maintain sustainable projects.

Benefits of FGBC Certification

Certified projects through FGBC bring measurable advantages for both property owners and the environment:

1. Energy Efficiency

   • Reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills by integrating efficient design and systems tailored to Florida’s climate.

2. Water Conservation

   • Implement water-saving practices and technologies to address Florida’s water resource challenges.

3. Increased Property Value

   • Green-certified properties appeal to eco-conscious buyers and tenants, enhancing marketability and value.

4. Resilient Design

   • Certifications prioritize building practices that withstand Florida’s weather conditions, including hurricanes and tropical storms.

5. Environmental Stewardship

   • Contribute to Florida’s sustainability goals by minimizing environmental impact and supporting local ecosystems.

Why Choose FGBC Certification?

FGBC offers certification programs for a variety of project types, including:

• Residential Homes

  • Single-family and multifamily dwellings built or renovated with sustainability in mind.

• Commercial Buildings

  • Offices, retail spaces, and other commercial properties designed for energy efficiency and occupant health.

• Land Developments

  • Sustainable community planning and green infrastructure integration.

• Local Governments

  • Municipal programs designed to enhance community-wide sustainability.

Partner with Two Trails for FGBC Certification

As experts in green building certification, Two Trails provides comprehensive support to help your project achieve FGBC certification. Our team brings years of experience and a deep understanding of Florida’s green building requirements, ensuring a smooth and efficient certification process.

Our Services Include:

• Assessment and guidance on FGBC certification standards.

• Integration of energy and water-saving strategies.

• Documentation and verification to meet certification criteria.

• Training and education to empower your team with sustainable building practices.

Build a Sustainable Florida with FGBC

Whether you’re constructing a new property, renovating an existing one, or developing a community, FGBC certification is your pathway to creating environmentally friendly and resilient projects that thrive in Florida’s unique environment.

Contact Two Trails today to learn how we can help you achieve FGBC certification and contribute to a more sustainable future for Florida.