Sustainable design gives Cairn Construction the opportunity to build with new materials that improve everybody’s world one project at a time. We have worked with an array of sustainable construction systems including

         
Flooring Systems
That are FSC approved. Bamboo – cork – reclaimed and salvaged flooring.
  Solar Electricity
Enhance building energy performance with solar electricity panels.
         
Cabinetry
FSC approved, substantial bamboo cabinets. Use recycled, reclaimed or salvaged wood.
  Countertops
Recycled glass – paper resin – concrete.
         
Paints
With low or zero VOC’s. Paints, sealers and natural wall plasters.
  Tile 
Recycled glass – recycled metal.
Colorful accents from recycled material that sparkle.
         

We use and encourage a number of ‘green’ technologies, when applicable:

Demolition:

  • All construction and demolition waste is sent to a local recycling and salvage yard.

Plumbing:

  • We have successfully installed a number of dual plumbing water conservation systems using graywater recycling tanks for flush water which results in savings of thousands of gallons of water a year. Diverting rainwater from your roof through your gutter system into an underground reservoir can cut costs for landscaping irrigation during the dry season.

Electrical:

  • Our electrical subcontractors are all up to speed on the latest technologies in the solar field, far exceeding California Title 24 standards.  They can work with your Architect to design strategies which can dramatically affect building energy performance. These measures include passive solar design, and the use of natural lighting.  Insulation of high-efficiency lighting systems with advanced lighting controls, including motion sensors tied to dimmable lighting controls

Structural:

  • Where applicable and with engineering approved, we have used joisting and stud layout based on a 2’ center system, instead of 16” centers, which results in less lumber usage and overall savings for your wallet and the environment.

Flooring:

  • We can use flooring systems that are FSC approved, such as bamboo, salvaged white oak, cork, and reclaimed flooring.

Heating:

  • We can work with your Architect to suggest using a properly sized and energy-efficient heat/cooling system in conjunction with a thermally efficient building shell. Maximize light colors for roofing and wall finish materials; install high R-value wall and ceiling insulation; and use minimal glass on east and west exposures.

Cabinets:

  • Our cabinet makers will use recycled, reclaimed or salvaged wood.

Countertops:

  • We can use recycled glass (ice stone), paper resin and concrete countertops.

Paint:

  • Our painters can use Low Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) paints with, natural sealers and plasters. 

Tile:

  • We have a number of resources and suppliers for recycled glass and metal tile

Insulation:

  • We have successfully installed soy based foam insulation, which is more energy efficient and also provides additional noise insulation

Sustainable Options:

  • We have a library of suitable sustainable materials suppliers and product finishes meeting Clients requirements, such as energy efficient appliances, radiant under floor heating systems, Low E window insulation packages, sustainable flooring finishes, utilization of natural light where possible (sun tunnels).  Such products promote resource conservation and efficiency. We look at it as using recycled-content products also helps develop markets for recycled materials that are being diverted from California 's landfills