Conserving our Natural Resources and Reducing our Carbon Footprint!
Le Spa Forêt uses Comphy Company sheets and robes. This eco-conscious company has designed their products to be recyclable and last 2-3 times longer than a standard cotton sheet. Replacing our sheets less frequently helps us add to our sustainability. Being lighter than cotton and wrinkle free, these products dry in just half the amount of time compared to any alternative, therefore allowing us to use less energy during drying, and there’s no need for pressing.
Le Spa Forêt was carefully staked to ensure minimal disturbance. During excavation, only the building footprint and a 15 to 20-foot perimeter was disturbed. Three trees and some bushes were removed from the site, but more trees, shrubs and vegetation native to northeastern Pennsylvania have been re-planted since the building was completed.
Huber’s ZIP system was used for the exterior sheathing. By using this sheathing, less mature trees were cut down to provide lumber for this PA Greenhouse since the ZIP system can be made from smaller trees or brush. Additionally, the ZIP system is mold resistant, which helps ensure healthier indoor air quality.
Instead of stick framing the roof, on-site trusses were used for Le Spa Forêt. Since trusses are a factory-engineered solution, the typical on-site waste due to cutting of material for the roof was virtually eliminated.
Le Spa Forêt and the Spa Suites have energy-efficient windows that employ advanced technologies, such as protective coatings (Low-E) and improved frames, to help keep heat in during winter and out during summer. These windows also block damaging ultraviolet sunlight that can discolor carpets and furnishings.
Each of the faucets in Le Spa Forêt hold the Environmental Protection Agency’s Water Sense label. Every faucet that holds this label uses at least 20% less water than the norm. The average faucet in Le Spa Forêt uses only 1.5 gallons of water per minute. This helps conserve water, our most valuable natural resource.
Le Spa Forêt and the Spa Suites were painted with low/no VOC paints throughout. By nearly eliminating VOCs emitted from paints, indoor air quality is improved.
Carpets installed in all our spa suites were made from 100% recycled products
Light fixtures that accommodate compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) are used throughout Le Spa Forêt. CFLs last much longer than traditional incandescent bulbs and use approximately 20% less electricity.
The salt-water system uses UV technology to break down simple table salt into sodium and chloride to naturally chlorinate the water. Not only is this safer for the environment, but it is also gentler on the skin, eyes, and the air you breathe. Additionally, the desert air HVAC system recycles humidity in the air to heat the salt-water pool water (normally kept around 82℉ with 40% humidity).
Our NAHB-certified green builder is excited to be involved with a commercial green project and has been instrumental in implementing designs to incorporate green construction and sustainable materials